Technology - Kalakshar US

Court denies Elon Musk’s attempt to block OpenAI’s for-profit transformation

US federal judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers has denied Elon Musk’s request for an injunction that would have immediately stopped OpenAI’s conversion into a for-profit entity. Musk filed for an injunction late last year after suing OpenAI and Microsoft and accusing them of telling investors not to fund rival AI companies, such as his own xAI. According to the Financial Times, the judge dismissed his request based on that claim of anticompetitive behavior. Gonzalez Rogers cited a previous statement by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, saying that the company only warned certain investors who were granted access to sensitive information that their rights would be terminated if they made a non-passive investment in rival companies.

The judge also reportedly rejected the request based on Musk’s claim that OpenAI and Altman broke their contract with him and violated the company’s founding mission of building AI “for the benefit of humanity.” Musk, who helped found OpenAI and funded it when it was just starting out, said Altman and his fellow OpenAI co-founder Greg Brockman “took advantage of [his] altruism in order to lure him into funding the venture.” In a statement sent to Bloomberg, OpenAI said that the lawsuit has “always been about the competition.” The company added that “Elon’s own emails show that he wanted to merge a for-profit OpenAI into Tesla. That would have been great for his personal benefit, but not for [OpenAI’s] mission or US interests.”

After Musk filed his original lawsuit against OpenAI last year, the company published old emails between Musk and other people in the company. OpenAI revealed that Musk was not only aware that it was taking the for-profit route, he wanted majority equity, control of the initial board of directors and the CEO position. Anoter email from Musk suggested making the organization a part of Tesla. In February this year, Musk launched a bid to buy OpenAI for $97.4 billion, but the company gave him a firm “no thank you” in response.

As Bloomberg noted, the judge’s rejection of Musk’s request is significant, because OpenAI is already in the process of talking with government officials about taking on a more typical corporate structure. While the judge has rejected Musk’s request, she is fast-tracking his lawsuit and will hold an expedited trial later this year on the basis of public interest and on his claim that OpenAI’s transformation has a “potential for harm if a conversion contrary to law occurred.”

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/court-denies-elon-musks-attempt-to-block-openais-for-profit-transformation-133025600.html?src=rss

Google stuffs even more AI tools into online shopping

As much money as Big Tech is sinking into generative AI, it’s no surprise to see more AI-powered tools materializing to valiantly assist you in spending your hard-earned cash. (Yay?) Snark aside, the shopping tools Google began rolling out on Wednesday might make it a bit easier to find the clothing and makeup you’d have been searching for anyway.

Vision Match

Google

Once a wee Google Labs experiment, Vision Match has graduated into the mainstream. The AI feature, which arrived for testers in 2023, lets you describe a garment you’re picturing in your own words and find the best available matches. If that sounds like “googling it with extra steps,” well, it is. But AI-generated images serve as a bridge between your words and the products you may eventually buy — one that hopefully produces results that better fit what you had in mind.

Say you’re looking for a specific piece of clothing you saw a stranger wearing in public. With Vision Match, describe the garment as vividly as possible (Google’s example: “colorful midi dress with big daisies”), and the Gemini-powered AI tool will then spit out a few images that fit the description. You can refine it from there if what you see doesn’t quite match. After you pick one, you’ll see real-world products you can order.

You can find Vision Match in a couple of places, but only on your smartphone. One option is to google the piece of clothing (like any other search term) and then scroll to the “Can’t ﬁnd it? Create it” prompt in the results. You can also find it in the left-hand panel of the Google Shopping tab under “Create & shop.”

Expanded AR makeup

Google

Google’s AR beauty features let you “try on” makeup by showing a digital representation of it on your face in real time. Today, the company added the ability to sift through how multiple makeup products would look on you (rather than just one specific brand) when searching for terms like “spring makeup” or celebrity looks.

“For example, searching ‘soft glam’ might offer you a selection of neutral eyelash, a rosy blush and a subtle lip gloss, all applied virtually to your face,” Google explained.

You can try the expanded AR try-ons by tapping “See the looks on you” when searching for makeup trends or those inspired by celebrities or influencers.

Virtual try-on: Pants and skirts

Google

Finally, Google’s virtual try-on tool, which launched in 2023 with tops, now supports pants and skirts. Instead of showing an augmented real-time view of you, this feature shows how the clothing would look on models. Fortunately, they cover the entire human spectrum of shapes and sizes — from XXS to XXL.

“Whether you need flattering skinny jeans for a night out, a silk skirt for the office or comfortable linen pants for summer, finding the right style is only a few clicks away,” Google said.

You can try the feature by searching for specific pants or skirts on your mobile device or desktop. Look for results that include a “try on” badge. From there, you can choose the model that looks the most like you (or the person you’re shopping for) to get a clearer picture of how it might look when it arrives at your door.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/google-stuffs-even-more-ai-tools-into-online-shopping-120026444.html?src=rss

Volvo reveals its ES90 EV with an 800-volt charging system

Volvo has officially launched the ES90, the fully electrified version of its S60 sedan. While the vehicle can technically be considered a sedan, Volvo says it has the “adaptability of a fastback, and the spacious interior and higher ground clearance associated with SUVs.” It’s the first Volvo EV with an 800-volt system, which promises faster charging times. Since Volvo’s 800-volt technology uses lighter components to reduce the vehicle’s overall weight, it could also lead to a longer range and better acceleration.

For the ES90, specifically, Volvo promises a driving range of 700 kilometers or 435 miles, though the official EPA range could be shorter. When plugged into a 350 kW fast charger, the model can add 300 kilometers (186 miles) of range in just 10 minutes, and its 106 kWh battery can go from 10 to 80 percent full in just 20 minutes. All the vehicle’s variants have a top speed of 112 mph, but the Twin Motor Performance (all-wheel drive) version has the fastest acceleration and can go from 0 to 60 mph in 3.9 seconds.

The ES90 was built on top of the Volvo Cars Superset tech stack, just like the EX90 SUV. That’s a single set of hardware and software that will serve as the base for all of Volvo’s electric vehicles and will make it possible to simultaneously roll out over-the-air updates for all its EVs as needed. ES90, however, is the first Volvo model to be powered by dual NVIDIA DRIVE AGX Orin configuration, which the company’s chief engineering and technology officer says makes it the “most powerful car [Volvo has] ever created in terms of core computing capacity.”

Volvo gave the ES90 a slightly raised ride height and its Thor’s Hammer headlight design, along with its new C-shaped LED rear lamps. It also equipped the vehicle with an array of sensors that include one lidar, five radars, seven cameras and twelve ultrasonic sensors for its active safety systems that can help drivers avoid collision and hazards. Inside, owners can individually fold down its three rear seats for more space. And while the panoramic roof provides 99.9 percent UV protection, buyers can choose the electrochromic version that will allow them to darken the glass and reduce glare at the touch of a button. Owners can access the model’s infotainment system on its 14.5-inch center screen display, which comes with built-in Google apps, including Maps and Assistant.

Interested buyers can now order the ES90 in Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. Volvo will release it in more markets later this year and into 2026.

Volvo

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/transportation/evs/volvo-reveals-its-es90-ev-with-an-800-volt-charging-system-101006882.html?src=rss

GTA V finally gets its ‘next-gen’ update on PC, three years after consoles

PC players of Grand Theft Auto V have at long last reached parity with their console brethren. Following an announcement last month, today Rockstar Games has released a PC update with features that for several years had only been available to the latest console generation.

It’s a free update for anyone who already owned a copy of the hugely popular game. The original version of GTA V has been delisted from PC storefronts in favor of the new Expanded & Enhanced iteration of the game, which includes a copy of the old Legacy edition. Both Story Mode and Online progress can be migrated to the most recent version. The update includes technical improvements that debuted on the consoles, as well as some PC-specific ray tracing features if the recommended specs are met. There are also some minor additions on content, such as ambient wildlife, photography challenges, new vehicles and access to the GTA+ subscription service.

Rockstar Games has been spiffing up several entries in its GTA franchise over the years. It released a trilogy of remasters for Grand Theft Auto III, GTA: Vice City and GTA: San Andreas in addition to providing these upgrades to GTA V and Grand Theft Auto Online. And while fans of the series might enjoy all the nostalgia, it’s safe to say that expectations are sky high for the upcoming Grand Theft Auto VI.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/pc/gta-v-finally-gets-its-next-gen-update-on-pc-three-years-after-consoles-234614209.html?src=rss

CFPB drops Zelle lawsuit in latest reversal under Trump administration

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has dropped its lawsuit over peer-to-peer payment system Zelle, the latest in a series of dismissals from this department under President Donald Trump’s administration. The agency had only just announced the suit — filed against Zelle’s operating entity Early Warning Services and partner banks JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America and Wells Fargo – in December. According to the initial action, the CFPB said that customers of the three banks had lost more than $870 million during the seven years Zelle has been active.

The CFPB made several moves to increase oversight on the financial products offered by tech companies under its previous director, Rohit Chopra. However, the agency is now overseen by Acting Director Russell Vought, who ordered the CFPB to cease all “supervision and examination activity” last month. While employees of the bureau have sued to try to keep the CFPB alive, there have been conflicting messages from government leadership about the agency’s status.

Since taking office, Trump and ally Elon Musk have taken sweeping actions to control and close federal government departments. Agencies that have historically regulated Musk’s business activities have been among those with reduced powers, as have federal operations for cybersecurity, digital services and personnel management.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/cybersecurity/cfpb-drops-zelle-lawsuit-in-latest-reversal-under-trump-administration-204639032.html?src=rss

Ontario once again promises to nix $100 million Starlink deal over Trump tariffs

Ontario Premier Doug Ford has once again promised to end the province’s $100 million contract with Elon Musk’s Starlink after reversing course back in February, according to reporting by the CBC. The reasoning behind this reversal is fairly obvious. The long-threatened Trump tariffs have officially gone into effect, which pops a 25 percent tariff on most Canadian goods and a 10 percent tariff on energy exports.

The contract was signed in November of last year and tasked Starlink with providing internet service to remote parts of Ontario. Ford, a former staunch supporter of President Trump, is prepared to go even further to protect Canada’s interests. He said that if the tariffs persist that the region will be forced to issue its own 25 percent surcharge on electricity exported to the US. He also said he would shut off electricity “with a smile” on his face to US customers if things aren’t resolved, according to the Toronto Sun.

“We also need to be ready to dig in for a long fight,” Ford said. “We need to be ready to escalate using every tool in our tool kit.”

It’s worth noting that Canada provides electricity to US residents in Michigan, New York and Minnesota, and a shutdown would impact over 1.5 million people. Ford has also floated the idea of issuing a surcharge to mineral exports or ending them entirely.

Ontario’s primary liquor wholesaler, the LCBO, has confirmed that it will stop purchasing and selling US-made alcohol. Additionally, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that Canada would be issuing its own retaliatory matching tariffs on US goods.

“Today the US launched a trade war against Canada, their closest ally and their closest friend. At the same time, they’re talking about working positively with Russia, appeasing Vladimir Putin, a lying, murderous dictator. Make that make sense,” Trudeau said during a news conference. He also suggested that Trump was trying to weaken the Canadian economy as an annexation strategy, but that “Canada will never be the 51st state.”

Trump’s stated boogeyman behind these tariffs continues to be fentanyl, even though less than one percent of the drug arrives in this country via Canadian routes. This data has been confirmed by both Trudeau and the US Drug Enforcement Administration.

Don’t worry about SpaceX and Starlink’s financials. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) just announced a partnership to install Starlink terminals at various airports, which seems like auspicious timing. The agency also reportedly ordered staffers to “begin finding tens of millions of dollars for a Starlink deal.” Government efficiency at its finest. In any event, we’ve reached out to Ontario’s Ministry of Infrastructure for details regarding the the contract cancellation and will update this post when we find out more.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/big-tech/ontario-once-again-promises-to-nix-100-million-starlink-deal-over-trump-tariffs-194512098.html?src=rss

Sony is streamlining its PlayStation beta programs with a single sign-up

Sony has run a number of PlayStation beta programs over the years, including one that lets folks try new PS5 features before they go live for everyone. The company is now making it easier to sign up for the chance to be invited to future beta tests as you’ll only need to register once.

The creatively named Beta Program at PlayStation allows you to log your interest in beta tests for PS5 and PC games, new console features, PlayStation App updates and changes to the brand’s website. You can sign up for the free initiative starting today, but there are a few provisos.

You’ll need a PlayStation Network account that has a current email address (invites to betas will land in your inbox) and is in good standing. If your account has been suspended or it has other restrictions, you may be ineligible. In addition, you’ll need to meet your region’s legal age requirement and live in a part of the world where the program is actually available.

Signing up doesn’t guarantee that you’ll get access to a beta test since there’s bound to be interest from more people than Sony is able to accommodate. You’ll need to sign a nondisclosure agreement before taking part in a beta and there’s no obligation to participate if you’re invited to one.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/playstation/sony-is-streamlining-its-playstation-beta-programs-with-a-single-sign-up-202628072.html?src=rss

Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 arrives on July 11

After weeks of teasers from Activision and Tony Hawk, the video game publisher has officially announced that Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 will be available on July 11. Iron Galaxy Studios remade the old skateboarding games from the ground up to create an updated version of the classics. The remake includes the original games’ content, along with cross-platform online multiplayer for up to eight skaters. Activision says it picks up from where Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2 left off, but it didn’t mention whether the new title would also come with local multiplayer like its predecessor does.

The new game was developed by a different studio than the one that remade the first two games even though Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1 + 2 was pretty well-received. Hawk previously revealed that Vicarious Visions, the studio that developed the first remake, was supposed to work on the third and fourth installments, as well. However, that plan was scrapped after the studio got absorbed into Blizzard. The new game will feature new skaters, tricks and brand-new parks. Its skater selection will include legends in the sport — though Bam Margera was notably absent in the roster we were given — as well as newer names, like two-time Olympics champion Yuto Horigome.

Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 will be available for the PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S and Nintendo Switch. For the PC, it can be purchased through Steam, Battle.net and Microsoft Store. Finally, Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscribers will be able to play it at launch through the game streaming service. Pre-orders will be available starting today, and those who do purchase in advance will be able to access the Foundry Demo in June. Those willing to pay extra and pre-order the Digital Deluxe and Collector’s Editions will be able to access the game earlier on July 8. The Digital Deluxe Edition comes with extra content, while the Collector’s Edition comes with a full-size Birdhouse skateboard deck and a printed Tony Hawk autograph.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/tony-hawks-pro-skater-3–4-arrives-on-july-11-180029571.html?src=rss

The dev behind TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge is making an original beat-’em-up

Dotemu, the developer behind beat-’em-ups like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge and Streets of Rage 4, is back with another slice of side-scrolling retro goodness. This time, however, the company’s eschewing a tried-and-true franchise in favor of an original IP. Absolum is a fantasy beat-’em-up that’s being co-developed by Guard Crush Games and Supamonk.

The game looks to retain the core beat-’em-up mechanics the developer has become known for, but with some flourishes. Dotemu boasts of “branching paths to explore,” which is giving me Castlevania III: Dracula’s Curse vibes. The developer has also implemented roguelike mechanics of some kind, with it going so far as to describe the game as a “rogue-‘em-up.” We don’t know the details of these mechanics just yet.

We do know that Absolum will be playable as a solo campaign or in a co-op mode, offering both local and online play. Gamers will be able to choose from four different fantasy-themed characters. Also, the animation looks pretty dang gorgeous. It’ll be available for Switch, PlayStation and PC later this year.

Just because Absolum is a brand-new IP, doesn’t mean that Dotemu has given up on reviving classics for modern audiences. The company is also publishing Ninja Gaiden: Ragebound, a game that’s actually set during the events of the NES original.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/the-dev-behind-tmnt-shredders-revenge-is-making-an-original-beat-em-up-180518331.html?src=rss

Shure’s MoveMic 88+ is the first wireless direct-to-phone microphone with selectable polar patterns

Shure just revealed the MoveMic 88+ wireless direct-to-phone microphone with four selectable polar patterns. The company says this is the first-ever microphone of its type to offer this feature. For the uninitiated, polar patterns dictate where a microphone picks up sound. Most of the mics in this category offer just an omnidirectional polar pattern, which records equally from all sides. Some companies swap that out for a cardioid pattern, which picks up audio from a single direction.

The MoveMic 88+ offers access to both of the aforementioned polar patterns, in addition to bi-directional and raw mid-side. Why does any of this matter? It increases the versatility of the microphone. The cardioid pattern is perfect for, say, a TikTok video or an acoustic performance. The bi-directional pattern would be the go-to choice for a two-person interview and the omnidirectional pattern is the one to select for a field recording.

The microphone also offers a bevy of mounting options. It attaches to most popular tripods and mic stands with included mic clips and can be used as a handheld microphone. It pairs directly with a mobile phone via Shure’s MOTIV app, without the need for the company’s MoveMic Receiver. It can, however, integrate with the receiver if you want to use it with a regular camera or a computer.

The app also gives users controls over the audio signal, with settings like gain, EQ, high pass filter and more. The wireless range maxes out at 100 feet and the battery lasts around eight hours per charge. The MoveMic 88+ is available right now for $299 and comes with a cold shoe mic clip, 5/8” mic clip and USB-C charging cable.

Shure

Shure introduced another wireless direct-to-phone microphone last year, but that one didn’t feature selectable polar patterns. It also recently unveiled a pretty nifty condenser mic that includes a built-in two-channel audio interface.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/audio/shures-movemic-88-is-the-first-wireless-direct-to-phone-microphone-with-selectable-polar-patterns-164052767.html?src=rss