Category: Technology

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Technology

Google restricts ‘Agent Smith’ AI tool after internal surge

Google has limited access to its internal AI tool “Agent Smith” after it quickly gained popularity among employees. The tool is designed to automate coding and handle routine work tasks with minimal human involvement.

Agent Smith stands out for its ability to perform multi-step tasks independently. Employees can assign work from their smartphones, and the AI continues processing in the background, allowing greater flexibility and efficiency.

The system also connects with Google’s internal platforms to retrieve documents and relevant data, reducing manual effort and speeding up workflows. Its growing use reflects a shift from basic AI assistants to more advanced, autonomous agents.

The rise of the tool aligns with CEO Sundar Pichai’s focus on integrating AI into daily operations. Sergey Brin has also emphasized that such AI agents will play a key role in the company’s future.

While details remain limited, Agent Smith’s rapid adoption signals how AI is increasingly transforming workplace productivity.

Also Read: Anthropic plans $60 billion IPO amid AI boom

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Apple to invest $400 million to boost US manufacturing

Apple has unveiled plans to invest $400 million to expand its manufacturing footprint in the United States, bringing in new partners such as Bosch, Cirrus Logic, TDK and Qnity Electronics under its American Manufacturing Program. The investment, which will be made over the next few years, is aimed at increasing local production of key components used in Apple devices.

The initiative is part of Apple’s broader effort to make its supply chain more resilient by reducing dependence on overseas manufacturing. With global uncertainties and supply disruptions continuing to impact industries, the company is focusing on building stronger domestic capabilities for producing critical technologies.

Under the expanded program, Apple will work with Bosch and other partners to manufacture sensing components within the US. Cirrus Logic will collaborate with semiconductor manufacturer GlobalFoundries to develop advanced chips that power features like Face ID. These efforts are expected to bring more high-tech production processes to the country.

In addition, Japan-based TDK plans to begin manufacturing sensors in the United States instead of relying entirely on overseas facilities. Qnity Electronics will contribute materials essential for semiconductor and artificial intelligence technologies, further supporting Apple’s growing ecosystem.

Apple said the investment will help improve supply chain stability while also contributing to job creation and technological development in the US. The move builds on the company’s earlier commitment to significantly increase its spending on American manufacturing and innovation.

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Samsung brings its browser to Windows PCs

Samsung has expanded its digital ecosystem by launching its web browser for Windows users across the world. Previously available only in beta, the browser is now fully released and supports both Windows 10 and Windows 11 platforms.

The desktop version of the Samsung Internet Browser is designed to work closely with Samsung’s mobile devices. Users can sync their browsing data, including saved pages, open tabs, and history, across smartphones, tablets, and PCs. This ensures a smooth transition between devices and improves overall convenience.

One of the key additions is the use of advanced artificial intelligence within the browser. Samsung has introduced “agentic AI,” which allows the browser to understand user needs and assist with tasks. For example, it can summarise long articles, collect information from different tabs, and respond to natural language queries.

This approach reflects a growing trend in technology where software becomes more proactive and helpful. Instead of simply displaying web pages, the browser can now analyse and organise information for the user. Samsung aims to make browsing faster and more efficient through these features.

The company has said that these AI capabilities are part of its broader strategy to extend intelligent services across multiple devices. While some features are currently limited to certain regions, Samsung plans to expand access gradually.

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OpenAI shuts Sora, drops $1 bn Disney deal

OpenAI has decided to shut down its AI video tool Sora, stepping back from one of its most ambitious projects and ending a reported $1 billion partnership with Disney. The move reflects a change in priorities as the company focuses on more sustainable and widely used AI products.

Sora, introduced as a cutting-edge tool, allowed users to create short, realistic videos using simple text prompts. It quickly caught global attention for its ability to generate detailed scenes and creative visuals. However, despite the excitement, the platform struggled to overcome several challenges.

One of the biggest issues was the cost. Video-generating AI models require far more computing power than text or image tools, making them expensive to run and difficult to scale. As demand grew, so did the pressure on resources.

There were also concerns around misuse. Experts and critics warned about the risks of deepfakes, copyright violations, and the unauthorised use of people’s likenesses. These concerns made it harder for the platform to expand without stricter controls and safeguards.

The shutdown has also affected OpenAI’s collaboration with Disney, which had planned to explore AI-generated content using its popular characters. With Sora now discontinued, that deal is no longer moving forward.

OpenAI says it is now shifting its focus to core areas such as improving ChatGPT, building enterprise tools, and advancing research in artificial intelligence. The company appears to be concentrating on products that are more practical, scalable, and aligned with long-term growth.

The decision highlights a broader reality in the AI industry. While new tools can generate excitement, turning them into sustainable, safe, and widely usable products remains a challenge.

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Claude AI can now use computers like humans

AI company Anthropic has introduced a new feature for its chatbot Claude that allows it to use computers just like a human. This update is a big step forward in making AI more useful in everyday tasks.

With this new ability, Claude can open apps, browse the internet, type, click, and complete tasks on a computer. Instead of only giving answers or suggestions, the AI can now actually perform actions for the user. For example, it can fill out forms, gather information, or help manage files.

What makes this feature different is that Claude interacts directly with the computer screen, using virtual mouse clicks and keyboard inputs. This means it does not need special integrations or tools to work with different software, it can simply use them like a person would.

Right now, this feature is being tested and is mainly available for users on Mac computers. It also requires user permission before accessing files or performing any actions, which is important for safety and privacy.

However, the technology is still in early stages. Sometimes it may be slower or need multiple attempts to complete complex tasks. Anthropic says it will improve the system over time based on user feedback.

This update also increases competition in the AI industry, as companies race to build smarter and more capable digital assistants.

Experts say this marks a shift from basic chatbots to “agentic AI,” where AI systems can act more independently. Instead of waiting for step-by-step instructions, these systems can handle multi-step tasks on their own. For instance, a user could ask Claude to complete a task, and it could finish it even if the user is not actively involved.

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Apple WWDC 2026 set for June 8

Apple has announced that its Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2026 will take place from June 8 to June 12, with the opening keynote on June 8 at Apple Park in California. The event will also be streamed online, making it accessible to developers and Apple fans around the world.

WWDC is Apple’s flagship event for developers, where the company usually unveils updates for iOS, macOS, iPadOS, watchOS, and tvOS, alongside new tools and services for app makers. This year, the spotlight is expected to shine on artificial intelligence (AI) and a major refresh of Apple’s virtual assistant, Siri.

The upcoming iOS 27 is rumored to bring AI-powered features that will make iPhones smarter and more intuitive. A particularly exciting highlight is a significant upgrade to Siri, which Apple hopes will finally match or exceed competitors in conversational abilities. Reports suggest the new Siri will be more context-aware and capable of holding natural, flowing conversations, reflecting Apple’s push to integrate AI more deeply into its devices.

Beyond software, WWDC may also showcase updates for macOS and other Apple platforms, along with new developer tools. While hardware announcements are always possible, the focus is expected to remain on software and AI-powered experiences.

Apple will continue its hybrid approach, allowing attendees to join both in-person and online, with free access to sessions via the Apple Developer app and website.

This year’s WWDC signals Apple’s growing commitment to AI-driven features across its ecosystem, balancing innovation with privacy-focused design, a hallmark of the company’s approach to emerging technology.

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Samsung Galaxy S26 now works with AirDrop

Samsung has introduced a new feature that allows Galaxy smartphone users to share files with Apple devices, bringing an AirDrop-like experience to its ecosystem.

The feature is part of an upgraded Quick Share system and is being rolled out starting with the Galaxy S26 series. It enables users to transfer photos, videos and documents wirelessly to nearby devices, including iPhones, iPads and Mac computers, without relying on third-party apps or cloud services.

To use the feature, Galaxy users need to turn on Quick Share, while Apple users must set their AirDrop visibility to “Everyone.” Once both devices are discoverable, files can be sent instantly over a wireless connection, similar to Apple’s native sharing system.

For years, transferring files between Android and Apple devices has been inconvenient, often requiring messaging apps, email or cloud storage. Samsung’s latest update aims to simplify this process and improve the overall user experience.

The rollout began on March 23 in select countries and is expected to expand gradually to more regions. Samsung is also likely to extend the feature to older Galaxy devices through future software updates.

The new feature reflects a broader push in the tech industry toward better cross-platform compatibility. By enabling smoother interaction between Android and iOS devices, Samsung is addressing a long-standing gap in connectivity.

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OpenAI merges ChatGPT, Codex, Atlas

OpenAI is planning a major consolidation of its AI products into a single desktop “superapp” that will combine ChatGPT, the Codex coding assistant, and the Atlas AI‑powered browser into one integrated application. The goal is to simplify workflows, improve performance, and offer a more seamless experience for desktop users.

The company has been developing multiple standalone tools in parallel, but feedback from both users and internal teams highlighted that managing separate apps created fragmentation and slowed feature improvements. OpenAI leaders now believe a unified desktop platform will allow the AI to perform a wide range of tasks, from general conversation and productivity to coding, web research, and data analysis, without users having to switch between different apps.

The superapp will leverage agentic AI capabilities, meaning it can take autonomous actions on behalf of users, such as generating code, analysing data, and navigating complex workflows. According to insiders, the project is being led by Fidji Simo, OpenAI’s Chief of Applications, who explained that consolidating products is necessary to maintain quality and focus. Greg Brockman, OpenAI’s President, will oversee the product development and organisational changes required for the new platform.

Currently, the mobile ChatGPT app will remain unchanged. The superapp effort is focused solely on desktop users, where integrated workflows and multi-tasking capabilities are most beneficial. OpenAI has not announced a release date or pricing details for the app, and the name of the platform is also yet to be confirmed.

The initiative reflects a shift in OpenAI’s approach, moving from a portfolio of specialised tools toward a single, comprehensive platform aimed at improving user engagement, enhancing AI performance, and streamlining the overall experience for professional and personal desktop users alike.

The move is part of OpenAI’s strategy to stay competitive in the rapidly evolving AI market, where rivals like Anthropic and others are expanding enterprise-focused AI tools. Consolidating multiple AI products into one desktop platform could make it easier for developers, businesses, and everyday users to access advanced AI features without juggling different applications.

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Snowflake unveils AI tool to automate workflows

Snowflake has launched Project SnowWork, an AI platform that helps businesses automate multi-step tasks. Instead of just analyzing data, the tool can plan and complete workflows on its own. Employees can ask it to create reports, run forecasts, spot trends, or generate documents using simple conversational prompts.

The platform works within Snowflake’s secure data system, following company rules for access and data privacy. It ensures that sensitive information stays protected while automating tasks.

Currently, Project SnowWork is available as a research preview to select customers. Snowflake aims to make it easier for businesses to use AI for everyday operations, saving time and reducing manual work.

This launch is part of Snowflake’s growing AI strategy, which includes tools for conversational analytics and developer support. Project SnowWork reflects a trend in enterprise AI where systems not only provide insights but also take action, helping teams focus on higher-level work.

Also Read: YouTube brings AI ‘Reimagine’ tool for Shorts

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YouTube brings AI ‘Reimagine’ tool for Shorts

YouTube has introduced a new artificial intelligence feature called “Reimagine” for its short-video platform, YouTube Shorts, aimed at simplifying content creation and boosting creativity.

The new tool allows users to take a frame from an existing Short and transform it into a completely new video using simple text prompts. Creators can change backgrounds, styles, or entire scenes without needing advanced editing skills. The feature builds on YouTube’s existing “Remix” option, which already allows users to reuse parts of other videos.

With “Reimagine,” the process becomes more advanced. Users can generate fresh visuals or alter existing ones by describing what they want. For example, a regular scene can be turned into a different setting or artistic style in seconds. The tool can also use reference images uploaded by creators to guide the final output.

The generated clips are short and remain linked to the original content, ensuring that the original creator is credited. YouTube has also added safeguards, allowing creators to opt out if they do not want their videos to be used for AI-based remixing.

Currently, the feature is being tested with a limited group of users, mainly English-speaking creators. A wider rollout is expected after feedback from the initial phase.

The launch reflects a broader trend of tech platforms integrating AI into content creation tools. By making video editing easier and faster, YouTube aims to attract more users to Shorts and strengthen its position in the competitive short-video market.

At the same time, the use of AI in remixing content raises concerns about originality and ownership. YouTube says it will maintain transparency by clearly linking AI-generated videos to their source material.

With “Reimagine,” YouTube is taking another step toward making video creation more accessible, allowing users to experiment and produce content with minimal effort.

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