Category: Technology

Categories
Technology

OpenAI launches $100 ChatGPT Pro

OpenAI has launched a new ChatGPT Pro plan priced at $100 per month, designed for users who need more power than the standard Plus subscription but do not require the top-end tier. The plan mainly targets developers and heavy users who rely on OpenAI’s Codex tool for coding tasks.

The Pro tier offers significantly higher usage limits, around five times more than the Plus plan, allowing longer and more complex coding sessions without interruptions. This makes it more suitable for professional and intensive workflows.

In India, the plan costs approximately ₹10,699 per month. It is part of a broader pricing structure that now includes a free tier, a low-cost “Go” plan, Plus, and Pro, giving users more flexibility based on usage needs.

Alongside the launch, OpenAI has also adjusted usage limits for Plus subscribers, indicating a reshuffling of resources as demand for AI tools continues to grow. The company appears to be balancing system load while expanding access to higher-performance options.

The move comes amid increasing competition in the AI coding space, with rivals also offering premium developer-focused tools. OpenAI’s new pricing strategy aims to retain advanced users while capturing a wider segment of the market.

Also Read: Unilever builds 300,000-strong Influencer network

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Categories
Technology

Instagram rolls out stricter safety rules for teens

Instagram is introducing new safety features aimed at making the platform safer for teenagers.

With this update, all users under 18 will automatically be placed under stricter content settings. This means they will see only age-appropriate posts, similar to content rated suitable for teens.

The platform will now reduce exposure to posts that include violence, strong language, or adult themes. It will also limit interactions with accounts that regularly share such content.

Search results are being tightened as well. Teens won’t easily come across sensitive or harmful content, even if they try to search for it in different ways.

One of the biggest changes is that these safety settings cannot be turned off freely. Teens will need approval from parents to make any changes, giving families more say in how the app is used.

The update also introduces a “limited content” option, which applies even stricter filters for those who want extra protection.

Parent company Meta says the changes are based on feedback from parents and are part of a larger effort to improve safety for younger users.

The move comes at a time when social media platforms are facing growing pressure to better protect teenagers online, especially around issues like mental health and exposure to harmful content.

Also Read: World Bank raises India growth forecast to 6.6%

Categories
Technology

Muse Spark powers Meta’s AI reset

Meta Platforms has launched a new artificial intelligence model called Muse Spark, as part of its efforts to strengthen its position in the fast-growing AI space.

The move comes under CEO Mark Zuckerberg, who is focusing on rebuilding the company’s AI strategy after earlier setbacks. Muse Spark is the first major product from Meta’s revamped AI division, created to accelerate innovation and compete with global tech rivals.

The new model is designed to power Meta’s AI tools across its platforms. It will be used in the Meta AI app and gradually rolled out to services like Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Messenger.

Muse Spark can handle both text and images and is built to answer more complex questions. It also offers different response modes, allowing users to choose between quick replies and more detailed explanations.

Meta says the model is faster and more efficient, while still being powerful enough to compete with other leading AI systems. Unlike some of its earlier models, Muse Spark will not be open-source and will mainly be used within Meta’s own platforms.

The launch is part of a larger reset, with the company investing heavily in AI talent and infrastructure. Zuckerberg has said this is just the beginning, with plans to build more advanced AI tools in the future.

Also Read: LIC eyes first bonus share issue

Categories
Technology

Anthropic delays new AI model over risks

US-based AI firm Anthropic has unveiled its most advanced artificial intelligence model yet, but decided not to release it publicly due to concerns over potential misuse.

The model, called Claude Mythos, marks a significant leap in AI capability. It is designed to detect software vulnerabilities with exceptional accuracy, outperforming human experts in several tests. In one notable case, the system identified a decades-old flaw that had gone unnoticed for years, showcasing its powerful analytical abilities.

However, these same strengths have raised serious concerns. Experts believe the technology could be misused to find and exploit weaknesses in digital systems, potentially enabling sophisticated cyberattacks. This has prompted the company to take a cautious approach.

Instead of a full public rollout, Anthropic is limiting access to a small group of trusted partners under a controlled programme. The aim is to study how the model behaves in real-world conditions while reducing the risk of misuse.

The company is also in discussions with the United States government to better understand the broader implications of such powerful AI systems. CEO Dario Amodei has stressed the importance of building safeguards as AI becomes more capable and widely used.

The development highlights a growing challenge in the tech industry, how to balance rapid innovation with safety. While advanced AI can strengthen cybersecurity by identifying threats early, it can also create new risks if it is not properly controlled.

Also Read: RBI keeps Repo rate at 5.25%

Categories
Technology

Anthropic partners Google, Broadcom for AI expansion

Anthropic has entered into a major long-term partnership with Google and Broadcom to strengthen its access to advanced AI chips and computing infrastructure.

The agreement is aimed at meeting the growing demand for high-performance computing required to train and run advanced artificial intelligence models. As part of the deal, Anthropic will use Google’s custom-built Tensor Processing Units (TPUs), which are designed specifically for AI workloads.

The partnership is expected to significantly scale Anthropic’s computing capacity over the coming years. Reports suggest that the company could gain access to several gigawatts of compute power, reflecting the massive infrastructure needed for next-generation AI systems.

Broadcom will play a key role by helping design and supply custom chips that power Google’s AI infrastructure. The collaboration is part of a broader, multi-year arrangement that will support the development of future AI processors.

For Anthropic, the deal ensures a steady supply of critical resources needed to expand its AI offerings, including its Claude chatbot. The company has been rapidly growing and requires large-scale computing to keep up with increasing user demand and more complex AI models.

The partnership also highlights a wider trend in the tech industry, where companies are entering long-term agreements to secure access to chips and computing power. With AI systems becoming more resource-intensive, reliable infrastructure has become a key competitive factor.

For Google, the deal strengthens its cloud and AI ecosystem by promoting the use of its in-house chips. For Broadcom, it reinforces its role in the global semiconductor supply chain.

Also Read: Beacon Group names Dr Rajesh Patel as CEO

 

Categories
Technology

Google Pixel 10a gets Japan-only blue edition

Google has introduced a special edition of its Pixel 10a smartphone, featuring a new “Isai Blue” color that will be sold exclusively in Japan. The launch is part of the company’s celebration of a decade of Pixel devices and reflects a growing focus on localized products.

The new variant stands out with its deep blue finish, offering a distinct alternative to the standard Pixel 10a color options available globally. While the hardware remains unchanged, the exclusive design is aimed at giving users a more unique and personalized device.

A key highlight of this edition is Google’s collaboration with Heralbony, a creative organization that works with artists with disabilities. Through this partnership, the phone includes specially designed wallpapers and visual elements that emphasize individuality and creativity. The name “Isai,” which suggests uniqueness, ties into this theme.

The customization extends into the user interface as well. Using Google’s Material You design system, the phone adapts its colors and appearance based on selected wallpapers, many of which are created as part of this collaboration. This allows users to experience a more expressive and personalized software design.

In addition to the device itself, Google is offering exclusive accessories with the Japan-only model. Buyers will receive themed stickers and a matching case, along with packaging that features custom artwork inspired by the collaboration.

The Pixel 10a “Isai Blue” edition will be available in limited quantities and comes with 256GB of storage. Pre-orders have already opened in Japan, with official sales set to begin in May.

Although there are no changes to the phone’s specifications, the special edition highlights Google’s strategy of creating region-specific experiences. It also suggests that similar exclusive variants could be introduced in other markets in the future.

Also Read: Gold nears ₹1.50 lakh, Silver slides over ₹1,500

Categories
Technology

iPhone 17 Pro Max joins Artemis II mission

NASA’s Artemis II mission has added a surprising companion: the iPhone 17 Pro Max. The astronauts took the smartphone on their lunar orbit journey, capturing incredible images of Earth from space. NASA cleared the phone after ensuring it met strict safety and operational standards.

The iPhone’s advanced camera allowed astronauts to photograph the planet’s curvature, clouds, and oceans in vivid detail. NASA shared these images on social media, where they quickly went viral, showing the public views of Earth few people ever see.

The decision to allow a commercial smartphone reflects how consumer technology is increasingly used in space exploration. While traditional cameras remain essential, devices like the iPhone provide flexible, lightweight options for quick and high-quality photography.

NASA is also using this mission to test how consumer devices perform in extreme conditions, including low gravity, radiation, and temperature changes. The findings could help design more resilient equipment for future space missions.

The public has responded enthusiastically, enjoying the connection between everyday technology and space exploration. As Artemis II continues its journey, more photos from the iPhone are expected, giving people on Earth a rare glimpse of our planet from the lunar vicinity.

Also Read: OPEC+ to raise May oil output despite supply risks

Categories
Technology

Google unveils Gemma 4 AI model

Google has launched its new AI model, Gemma 4, to help developers create smarter applications with ease. Built by Google DeepMind, the model is designed to be simple to use while still offering powerful features.

Gemma 4 is available in multiple sizes, allowing it to run on a variety of devices such as smartphones, laptops, and servers. This makes it more accessible, especially for developers who may not have high-end hardware.

The model can perform tasks like answering questions, generating text, and assisting with coding. It also supports text, images, and audio, making it capable of handling different types of data in one system.

Another key feature is that Gemma 4 can work directly on devices, sometimes without needing an internet connection. This helps improve speed and enhances data privacy.

With support for over 140 languages, the model can be used to build applications for users around the world. It can also process large amounts of information at once, making it suitable for more advanced tasks.

Google has made Gemma 4 available under an open licence, allowing developers to freely use, modify, and build on it, including for commercial use.

Also Read: India adds new nuclear submarine INS Aridhaman

Categories
Technology

Google expands AI video tools

Google has rolled out new updates to its video creation platform, Google Vids, making it easier for users to create videos using artificial intelligence. The tool is designed to help people turn simple ideas into complete videos without needing advanced editing skills or specialised software.

With the latest features, users can generate videos using text prompts. By entering a short description, the platform can automatically create a video with visuals, voiceovers, and transitions. This significantly reduces the time and effort usually required to produce video content.

One of the key highlights of the update is the introduction of AI-generated avatars. These digital presenters can deliver scripts and explain content, allowing users to create professional-looking videos without appearing on camera. The avatars can be customised in terms of appearance and voice, making the videos more engaging and personalised.

Google Vids also includes AI-powered voiceovers and background music. Users can add narration and soundtracks that match the tone of their videos without needing external tools. This makes the overall process more seamless and beginner-friendly.

Another useful addition is built-in screen recording. Users can record their screens and directly convert those recordings into polished videos within the platform. This feature is especially helpful for creating tutorials, training videos, and presentations. The tool also allows easy sharing, including direct uploads to platforms like YouTube.

The launch of these features is part of Google’s broader effort to bring AI into everyday tools and improve productivity. By simplifying video creation, the company aims to support individuals, businesses, and content creators in producing high-quality videos quickly.

Also Read: Myntra CEO Nandita Sinha steps down

Categories
Technology

ChatGPT now available on Apple CarPlay

OpenAI has expanded the reach of its chatbot ChatGPT by bringing it to Apple CarPlay, allowing users to access AI while driving.

The feature comes with the latest iOS 26.4 update and enables iPhone users to interact with ChatGPT using voice commands. This means drivers can ask questions, get quick information, or even have simple conversations without needing to touch their phones.

To ensure safety, the CarPlay version is designed as a voice-only experience. Responses are spoken aloud, and no text is displayed on the screen, helping drivers stay focused on the road. This approach reduces distractions while still offering the benefits of AI assistance.

The move also signals a shift by Apple, which has traditionally relied on its own voice assistant, Siri, for in-car interactions. By allowing ChatGPT on CarPlay, Apple is opening its platform to third-party AI tools and giving users more flexibility in how they interact with technology.

However, the feature comes with some limitations. Users cannot activate ChatGPT with a wake phrase like “Hey Siri” and must open the app manually through the CarPlay interface. In addition, the chatbot cannot control vehicle functions or make changes to phone settings, as Apple continues to maintain strict control over system features for safety reasons.

Despite these restrictions, the integration is seen as a significant step forward. ChatGPT offers more natural and conversational responses compared to traditional voice assistants, making interactions feel smoother and more engaging.

Also Read: OpenAI raises $122 billion for AI expansion