Podcast Summary
Simplifying Travel and Messaging: Viator offers 300,000+ travel experiences with free cancellation and 24-7 support, while Apple's RCS update will enhance cross-platform messaging with high-resolution media and real-time indicators.
Viator is a valuable tool for travelers looking to plan and book guided tours, excursions, and more in one place. With over 300,000 travel experiences to choose from, free cancellation, and 24-7 customer support, Viator simplifies the process of finding and booking travel experiences. Meanwhile, in tech news, Apple's unexpected announcement that they will support RCS on the iPhone in 2024 means that texting between iPhones and Android phones will become better, with features like high-resolution photos and videos, typing indicators, and read receipts. This news, which was not known at the time of recording, will improve the user experience for cross-platform messaging. Overall, both Viator and the upcoming RCS update demonstrate the importance of simplicity and seamless experiences in travel and technology.
New innovations in portable technology: A briefcase display and a wearable AI assistant: The tech industry introduces groundbreaking portable devices: a 27-inch vertical display in a briefcase and a wearable AI assistant projecting a UI onto the user's hand, powered by advanced AI models.
The tech industry is pushing the boundaries of portable technology with new innovations like a 27-inch vertical display in a briefcase, and Humane AI's new $699 pin, which projects a UI onto your hand and is powered by a perpetual power system. The briefcase display, weighing 30 pounds, is a touchscreen device with a battery that lasts three hours and can run TikToks, chess games, and more. The Humane AI pin, on the other hand, is an AI assistant worn on the body, featuring a 13-megapixel camera, microphone, speaker, and local AI model primarily powered by ChatGPT4. The pin projects a UI onto the user's hand, allowing interaction through hand movements. Both innovations represent significant advancements in portable technology and offer unique solutions to modern needs.
Limitations of AI technology in an AI pin: Despite its potential, the AI pin's accuracy and practicality are uncertain due to limitations in its user interface, hand tracking capabilities, and potential inaccuracies in AI responses.
The AI pin presented in the discussion is an innovative wearable technology designed to interact with users through natural language and tap inputs, routing queries to the appropriate AI platform. However, during the presentation, there were instances of inaccurate information provided, such as the protein content in a handful of almonds and the location of the next total solar eclipse. These errors highlight the limitations of large language models, which predict the next most likely word rather than providing definitive answers. The potential of this gadget is promising but uncertain, as there are concerns about its user interface, hand tracking capabilities, and weight on clothing. Overall, while the concept of an AI pin is intriguing, the accuracy and practicality of the technology need to be refined for it to be a successful and reliable tool for users.
Exploring the Potential and Challenges of Wearable AI Technology: The Google Pin represents an exciting concept for an invisible, personal AI assistant, but faces challenges in functionality, design, and social acceptance.
The potential of wearable AI technology, such as the Google Pin, is intriguing but faces challenges in terms of accessibility, technology limitations, and social acceptance. The speaker expresses excitement about the idea of an invisible, personal AI assistant, but raises concerns about its functionality, especially in regards to logging macros or accessing information about food. They also question the practicality of the Pin's design and its ability to blend in seamlessly with everyday life. The speaker believes that the technology might be ahead of its time and compares it to Google Glass, which was also considered too advanced for its era. They suggest that some aspects of the technology, like audio tricks and language models, are already effective but the overall concept needs more development before it can fully deliver on its promise.
New AR technology provides info about landmarks, but concerns about cost and availability persist: Excitement for new AR technology's potential uses, but doubts about affordability and release date. Concerns about authenticity of demos shown. Limited hands-on experience and public information available.
The discussion revolves around a new technology that uses augmented reality (AR) to provide information about physical landmarks by tapping on them. The speaker expresses excitement about the potential uses of this technology but is hesitant about the high cost and lack of a release date. The authenticity of the demos shown during the presentation was also questioned. The speakers also mention the background of the company and the team behind it, which includes former Apple employees. The overall sentiment is that while there is potential in the technology, there are concerns about its practicality and affordability. The speakers also share their personal experiences with the technology, including ordering a device but not yet receiving it. The lack of hands-on experience with the product and limited information available to the public raises doubts about its capabilities. The speaker expresses a desire to see independent reviews of the product when it becomes available. The use of AR for key stoning, where projecting onto non-perpendicular surfaces results in distorted images, was mentioned as a standout feature. However, the lack of access to the product and limited information makes it difficult to fully evaluate its potential.
Strategies for Creating Innovative Tech Products in the US Market: To succeed in the US smartphone market, focus on carrier partnerships, appealing to a wide audience, and offering unique features like iMessage that keep users engaged within the ecosystem. Augmented reality technology is a promising area for innovation, but its implementation in consumer products is still uncertain.
Creating innovative technology products, especially in the smartphone market in the US, requires a strategic approach. The market is dominated by companies like Apple, and breaking through requires being carried by carriers, appealing to a wide audience, and offering something that can entice people to switch from their current devices. For instance, iMessage is a significant factor keeping users within the Apple ecosystem. Additionally, there's ongoing research in the field of augmented reality projection technology, which can add unique features and experiences to devices. However, the technology is still developing, and its implementation in consumer products remains to be seen. The speaker also mentioned trying out new and upcoming technologies, but couldn't disclose much information about them yet.
Competing with Apple's iMessage in US market: Startups face challenges in US market due to iMessage's popularity and integration with iPhone ecosystem. Some offer iMessage pass-through services, but sharing Apple ID info with third parties poses risks. Regulatory scrutiny on Apple and Google may limit effectiveness of workarounds.
Startups looking to compete with Apple in the US market, particularly in the phone sector, face a significant challenge due to iMessage's popularity and integration with the iPhone ecosystem. To address this issue, some companies like Sunbird are offering iMessage pass-through services that allow Android users to experience some of iMessage's features. However, this comes with the risk of sharing your Apple ID information with a third party. Nothing, a company selling headphones, is exploring this solution by partnering with Sunbird to offer a "nothing skin" version of their app. While this solution is not perfect, with potential issues such as slow performance and limited animations, it's seen as a viable option due to the regulatory scrutiny on Apple and Google. Ultimately, it remains to be seen how long this workaround will last, but it highlights the power of iMessage in keeping users within the Apple ecosystem.
IMessage's exclusivity remains a contentious issue: Apple's iMessage system is difficult to bypass, even with VPNs or non-Apple hardware. Its exclusivity remains a point of frustration for some users, particularly those in regions with limited access to Apple devices.
Apple's iMessage system, which is currently exclusive to Apple devices, may not be easily shut down even if users try to bypass it using alternative methods such as VPNs or running it on non-Apple hardware. The system's servers are likely distributed across various regions, making it difficult for Apple to detect and block specific instances. Some have suggested that Apple should open up its proprietary messaging protocol or even bring iMessage to Android to increase its user base and revenue, but this would come with its own challenges, such as increased server costs and potential monetization strategies. Despite the ongoing debate, it seems that iMessage's exclusivity remains a contentious issue, with users in certain regions expressing frustration over the lack of availability of Apple devices and services. Additionally, a new app called Sunbird has gained attention as a potential workaround for using iMessage on Android devices, but the technical details of how it works remain unclear.
Sunbird's encrypted messaging and device detection, Trivia about Taylor Swift and Viator, Mercury's financial solutions, Google's payment to Apple: Sunbird provides encrypted messaging and detects recipient's device for routing messages. Taylor Swift's Speak Now released in 2010, a year before dbrand. Viator offers 300,000 travel options with real reviews. Mercury simplifies financial workflows for businesses. Google pays Apple to be Safari's default search engine.
Sunbird is a closed source protocol based on Beeper, which can be run on Android phones despite not being officially supported. Sunbird offers encrypted messaging and can detect whether the recipient is using an Android or iPhone device, routing messages accordingly through RCS or iMessage. During the discussion, a trivia question was posed about the year Taylor Swift's third studio album, Speak Now, was released, one year before dbrand launched. Viator was also mentioned as a tool for booking travel experiences, offering over 300,000 options and real traveler reviews. Mercury was discussed as a financial technology company that simplifies financial workflows for businesses. A significant revelation was made about Google paying Apple a substantial amount to be the default search engine on Safari.
Google pays Apple for default search engine status: Google pays Apple a significant amount for default search engine status on Safari, but the impact on users and potential for Apple to create its own search engine raises questions about competition and consumer choice
Tech companies like Google and Apple engage in business deals where Google pays Apple a significant portion of its search ad revenue to remain the default search engine on Safari. This payment is a lot due to the default status, and many believe it's a waste of money as users might not notice or care if the search engine changed. However, others argue that the more users a search engine has, the better the product becomes, and a brief experiment with a different default could eventually lead to acceptance. Theoretically, if Google stopped paying Apple, there might not be an immediate alternative, but it's unclear if Apple would simply ask users to choose their preferred search engine during setup. Apple's history of taking bold steps to forego default reliance, such as transitioning from Intel processors to Apple Silicon, suggests they might consider making their own search engine. Ultimately, the payment structure raises questions about competition and consumer choice in the tech industry.
Apple's Unlikely Foray into Search Engines: Apple may not create its own search engine due to resource constraints and limited user base, while Google's dominance and backup deals with rivals highlight the industry's financial dynamics.
Apple is unlikely to create its own search engine due to the significant resources required and the limited benefit it would bring, especially since Apple prioritizes user privacy over data collection for revenue. While Apple could potentially improve the search experience and offer better features without selling user data, the success of such a venture would depend on a large user base willing to switch from established search engines like Google. The discussion also touched upon the dominance of Google in the search market, with other search engines like Yahoo struggling to compete, often relying on Google's backend. Additionally, during a recent Google event, a Google engineer inadvertently revealed that Google pays billions of dollars for using Microsoft's Bing search engine as a backup, shedding light on the financial aspect of the search industry.
OpenAI introduces longer context window, lower pricing, and individualized chatbots for GPT-4: OpenAI's latest updates to GPT-4 include a longer context window, lower pricing, and the ability for users to create their own chatbots, potentially disrupting businesses using it as a backend. A store for downloading and selling chatbot templates, and a copyright shield are also new offerings.
OpenAI has announced several new offerings and updates to their language model, GPT-4, including a longer context window, lower pricing, and the ability for users to create their own individualized chatbots (GPTs). These advancements aim to make the technology more accessible and versatile for a wider range of users, potentially disrupting businesses that were using GPT-4 as a backend. OpenAI also mentioned the introduction of a store for downloading and selling JPTs (chatbot templates), and a copyright shield, offering legal support in case of copyright infringement lawsuits. With over 100 million weekly active users, OpenAI continues to expand and innovate in the AI space. While some users find the technology indispensable for both personal and professional use, others may find it less useful until the store is released. Pricing for GPT-4 Turbo is set at one cent per thousand tokens for businesses. OpenAI also manages LinkedIn and World of Warcraft, showcasing their diverse business interests.
Microsoft's Acquisitions and Valve's Hardware Upgrades: Microsoft expands its tech influence with Activision Blizzard acquisition and OpenAI investment. Valve introduces an upgraded Steam Deck OLED with improved display, battery life, and design.
Microsoft, as a tech giant, continues to expand its influence in the tech industry with its acquisitions and investments. Microsoft now technically owns Activision Blizzard, the creator of World of Warcraft, and is a significant investor in OpenAI. In gaming news, Valve announced the Steam Deck OLED, an upgraded version of the Steam Deck handheld console. The OLED model boasts a brighter and bigger display, a faster refresh rate, and improved battery life. Other hardware improvements include a quieter fan and a more transparent design. The new Steam Deck OLED is priced at $549 and is available as a holiday gift option. Additionally, Analog Pocket, a handheld console for retro games, is releasing new matte color editions. Microsoft's continued expansion and Valve's hardware upgrades demonstrate the industry's commitment to innovation and consumer satisfaction.
Spice Orange GameCube and Twitch watching discussed, Housing affordability struggles mentioned: Andrew watches the most Twitch, original GameCube color revealed. Housing market standoff leads to high prices, difficulty for young adults to afford homes. Lucid Motors introduces jumper cable for bi-directional EV charging.
During the podcast discussion, it was revealed that the original GameCube color called "spice orange" was mentioned, and Andrew is known for watching the most Twitch among the team. Additionally, housing affordability was discussed, with the housing market experiencing a standoff between buyers and sellers leading to high prices and difficulty for young adults like the podcast host to afford homes. A new technology from Lucid Motors was also highlighted, which is a jumper cable that allows for bi-directional charging, enabling a Lucid vehicle to charge other EVs at a rate of up to 9.6 kilowatts. The podcast also touched upon the struggle of the host, who is 24 years old and still living at home due to the current housing market conditions.
Bi-directional charging in electric vehicles: Lucid Air and F150 Lightning can send power to other vehicles, acting as mobile chargers, while Xiaomi Su7 is a new electric sedan with good looks and multiple trim levels, but details are scarce.
Lucid Air electric cars will soon have the ability to send power to other vehicles through a bi-directional charging feature, making it possible for them to act as mobile chargers. This was discussed in the context of someone's Tesla Model 3 running out of battery and needing a jump start from a Lucid Air. The Xiaomi Su7, an electric sedan that was recently revealed through a regulatory filing, was also discussed, with its good looks and multiple trim levels being noted. However, the price and specifications of the Su7 are still unknown. Another key point from the conversation was the mention of the F150 Lightning's bi-directional charging feature, which requires a special box for home use. Overall, the conversation highlighted the convenience and potential of bi-directional charging in electric vehicles.
Xiaomi's Electric Sedan: Bridging the Gap Between Smartphones and Cars: Xiaomi and Polestar are expanding into the automotive industry, integrating technology for a cohesive user experience, with Xiaomi manufacturing some parts and Polestar using a camera for a rearview mirror.
Xiaomi, a company known for its Android smartphones, is expanding its horizons into the automotive industry with an electric sedan expected to be priced around $40,000. This car, which could be compared to a higher-end Ionic 6 with an active spoiler, will run on an OS that can also be used on Xiaomi smartphones. Xiaomi is not alone in this venture, as Polestar, another automotive company, is also planning to release a phone specifically designed to work seamlessly with their cars. These companies, which are part of larger Chinese auto conglomerates, are exploring new ways to integrate technology and create a cohesive user experience. Xiaomi is likely to manufacture some parts of the car, such as displays and camera systems, but will source others from suppliers. Another intriguing development is the Polestar 4, which will not have a rear window but instead use a camera and project the feed onto a rearview mirror screen. While this design is legal and already implemented in other vehicles, it remains to be seen how practical it will be for consumers. Overall, these companies are pushing the boundaries of technology and integration in the automotive industry.
Polestar 4's rear window design offers wider view, NASA launches free streaming service: The Polestar 4's unique rear window design improves visibility, while NASA's new streaming service makes space exploration accessible to all.
The Polestar 4's unique rear window design, which is a large, sloped back windshield with a small rear view mirror window, offers a wider field of view and improved nighttime visibility, but raises concerns about limited rear visibility during road trips. NASA, on the other hand, is launching a free streaming service, NASA+, featuring documentaries, live rocket launch streams, and chill music shows, making space exploration more accessible to everyone. The European Space Agency (ESA) is another organization that can also provide live space content through streams. Overall, these innovations in automotive and space industries demonstrate advancements in technology and design, enhancing our experiences in various ways.
Car manufacturers restricting vehicle sales and modifications: Some luxury car brands like Tesla and Ferrari impose restrictions on selling or modifying their vehicles to maintain brand image and prevent scalping.
Some car manufacturers, like Tesla and Ferrari, have attempted to restrict the selling or modification of their vehicles within a certain timeframe or under specific conditions. This practice, known as a Right of First Refusal or a Non-Transfer Agreement, is aimed at preventing scalping and maintaining brand image. In the case of Tesla and the Cybertruck, there was a report of a one-year resale restriction, which caused concern among buyers. However, Tesla later retracted this clause. This is not a new phenomenon, as other luxury car brands like Ferrari have been known for their strict control over the sale and use of their vehicles. For instance, Ferrari has been famous for sending cease and desist letters to owners who modify their cars or sell them without the manufacturer's permission. These actions have sparked debates on the implications of such restrictions on consumer rights and the secondary market.
Taylor Swift's Speak Now and dbrand's origins: Speak Now, released in 2010, influenced dbrand's founding; earliest phone hackers used a Captain Crunch whistle; Mercury simplifies financial workflows, SAS Viya analyzes large data sets
The origins of Speak Now, a Taylor Swift album, and dbrand, a technology company, are intertwined. Speak Now was released in 2010, a year before dbrand was founded. During their discussion, the guests mistakenly believed that Speak Now came out earlier and thought that dbrand founder Andrew Manganelli's last name was Manganelia. Despite some confusion, they eventually arrived at the correct answers. A fascinating fact that emerged during the conversation was that the earliest phone hackers used a whistle from a Captain Crunch box to make long-distance calls by dialing the exact 2600 Hertz tone. This discovery led to the widespread use of phone hacking. The episode was produced by Adam and Alice Rovin, and the hosts discussed their coordination of devices and their preference for wearing Apple Watches on different wrists. The episode was supported by Mercury and SAS, with Mercury focusing on simplifying financial workflows and SAS Viya providing a quick way to analyze large data sets.
