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WhatsApp Launches Instant Video Messages

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Instant Video Messages, an updated feature that was initially tested previously this year on both iOS and Android devices, has now been officially released on WhatsApp which is a messaging service owned by Meta. As the name suggests, WhatsApp now allows you to send brief video messages to your family and friends in addition to voice communications.

Whatsapp
Image Source: businesstoday.in

“Video messages are a real-time way to respond to chats with whatever you want to say and show in 60 seconds”. “We think these will be a fun way to share moments with all the emotion that comes from video, whether it’s wishing someone a happy birthday, laughing at a joke, or bringing good news,” WhatsApp said in a blog post.

Source: neowin.net

In the chat window for WhatsApp, the bottom-right voice messaging button now serves two functions. To toggle between video and audio messaging modes, touch on it. You may simply hold down the button to begin capturing a video for sending as an instant video message on WhatsApp.

When you withdraw your finger from the record button, the video will be immediately delivered, similar to voice messages. According to WhatsApp, video communications are also encrypted from end to end and may be locked and recorded hands-free by just swiping up.

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A WhatsApp video conversation can be recorded for up to 60 seconds.

When the receiver accesses the chat window, the video message will immediately begin playing on mute, they may tap on the video to activate the audio.

Videos as communications are not a new concept. The functionality has been available on Telegram for a while and it functions similarly. In addition, the feature of WhatsApp to send video messages is currently being released and will be available to all customers in the weeks to come.

This year, WhatsApp released several new features, including status reactions, the ability to save vanishing messages, connectivity to multiple cellphones, the ability to edit sent texts, Conversation Lock, the ability to block unknown calls, and contextual sticker compatibility.

Additionally, sending messages to unfamiliar telephone numbers has become simpler thanks to instant messaging software. Without first adding the contact information to their contacts, users may SMS contact information from within the app.

Armored Core 6

Is Armored Core 6 coming to Xbox Game Pass?

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Armored Core fans have been eagerly anticipating the next installment in the iconic mech combat series, and the recent buzz surrounding Armored Core 6 has only fueled their excitement.

Developed by FromSoftware, the studio renowned for its Soulsborne games, Armored Core holds a special place in the gaming community as it marks the studio’s earliest heritage dating back to 1997. With the studio’s current reputation for consistently delivering hits, the anticipation for Armored Core 6 has reached new heights.

Armored Core 6
Image Source: dexerto.com

The allure of Armored Core 6 lies in its promise of a return to the franchise’s roots with high-octane mech customization, intense fast-paced battles, and colossal metallic titans clashing in epic showdowns.

Such enticing features have left fans wondering whether the game will make its way to Xbox Game Pass, the popular subscription service offering access to a vast library of games.

Unfortunately for Xbox Game Pass subscribers, Armored Core 6 will not be available at launch, and the chances of it joining the service in the near future remain slim. FromSoftware has not yet made any of its games accessible through Xbox Game Pass, keeping its titles exclusive to other platforms.

Also Read: What is Llama 2: Meta’s AI explained

Moreover, FromSoftware’s longstanding relationship with Sony, the Japanese publisher and console manufacturer, further complicates the possibility of Armored Core 6 coming to Xbox Game Pass. Historically, many of FromSoftware’s earliest games, including the original Armored Core, were exclusive to PlayStation consoles.

Even the critically acclaimed title “Bloodborne” remains a PlayStation exclusive, and there are no indications of it leaving the platform anytime soon.

Although PlayStation Plus subscribers may hold a faint glimmer of hope, the likelihood of Armored Core 6 being made available there is also relatively low. The game’s exclusive association with Sony, coupled with the studio’s consistent loyalty to the brand, suggests that it is more likely to be offered through PlayStation Plus, if at all.

While the news might disappoint Xbox gamers hoping for an Armored Core 6 experience on Game Pass, it is essential to remember that the gaming landscape is constantly evolving. Developers and publishers may make unexpected decisions, leading to surprising outcomes.

In the world of gaming, nothing is entirely off the table, and fans might see future collaborations or agreements that could change the current scenario.

For now, enthusiasts of the Armored Core series can look forward to the upcoming release and immerse themselves in the thrilling mech combat once it hits the shelves.

As From Software continues to cultivate its reputation for crafting captivating gaming experiences, the anticipation surrounding this game is a testament to the studio’s enduring legacy and the enduring appeal of the franchise.

Advantest

Japan’s Advantest sees AI driving demand for chip testing

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On Wednesday, Japan’s Advantest Corporation announced that it expects rapid use of advanced semiconductors for generative artificial intelligence (AI) applications to carry on demand for its chip testing machinery.

“We can expect rapid growth in demand. However, we still don’t have concrete visibility,” Advantest CEO Yoshiaki Yoshida told an earnings briefing.

Source: theprint.in
Advantest
Image Source: japantimes.co.jp

As the world’s interest is grabbed by the potential of ChatGPT and other solutions designed at bringing web services more sophisticated and human-like Advantest stocks have soared 36 percent this year, nearing all-time highs. The corporation anticipates that operational profit would increase by 48 percent to 170 billion dollars in the financial year that ended in March.

The industry is expected to decrease this year as a result of clients hoarding surplus inventory, according to Advantest, a global leader in chip testing machinery together with Teradyne Inc. of the United States.

“Despite the fall this year I believe we will eventually face a growth curve,” Yoshida said. Advantest shares have more than doubled in value since the start of the year.

Source: theprint.in

Microsoft, as well as Alphabet’s child company Google, are one of the first to include generative artificial intelligence into their online tools, but a competing race to establish a dominating artificial intelligence platform in the world’s biggest internet marketplace has begun in China, driven by SenseTime, Alibaba Group Holding, Group, as well as Baidu.

Also Read: Intel, Ericsson to work together on custom 5G chip

Data centers are necessary for managing and developing artificial intelligence models that power anything from smart chatbot assistants to self-driving cars. The best hardware at the moment for real-time data analysis is numerous thousands of graphics processors, which are needed to do it.

According to Bloomberg Intelligence analyst Masahiro Wakasugi, the expanding usage of AI is straining the capabilities of sophisticated packaging and chip miniaturization, increasing the possibility of production errors.

Chip tester requirement is significantly increased as a result, enabling producers to ensure product quality and performance.

Teradyne, a competing company established in North Reading, Massachusetts, is rivaling Advantest. When a client switches vendors, which is exceedingly uncommon because it requires rethinking more machinery or whole lines of production, as well as retraining people, switching testing instruments might result in an important change in market share between the two.

In a couple of years, outstanding performance Graphics Processing Unit chip testers’ global sales would probably surpass those of smartphone chip testers, according to Toyo Securities analyst Hideki Yasuda.

Logitech

Logitech raises sales forecast for the first half of 2024

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In the initial batch of economic numbers since the departure of longtime chief executive officer Bracken Darrell from the manufacturer of desktop and laptop accessories a month ago, Logitech International (LOGN.S) upped its revenue and earnings projection for the first quarter of the fiscal year 2024.

“While the markets are still challenging, I am proud of the team’s achievements during our first quarter,” said Guy Gecht, Logitech’s interim chief executive officer. “Our high-caliber seasoned team, design-led engineering, and strong execution truly set us apart. Our latest innovations and elevated outlook are just a glimpse of Logitech’s full potential as we execute our strategic vision.”

Source: news.logitech.com

A computer keyboard and mouse manufacturer reported that the hunt for a replacement was going smoothly and that there will be a follow-up when there is information to tell.

Logitech
Image Source: finance.yahoo.com

Guy Gecht, the interim chief executive officer of Logitech, stated that the financial markets were constantly competitive for the company. Throughout the global epidemic lockdown, individuals loaded up on Logitech’s web cameras and other tools so they could work from home, which led to a boom for the company.

Ever since then, performances have been hampered by decreased spending by firms and consumers due to the recession.

The Swiss-American business was, though, a little more upbeat on Tuesday, stating that it now anticipates first-half revenues of 1.875 billion USD to 1.975 billion USD, higher than the prior estimate of 1.8 billion USD to 1.9 billion USD.

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Additionally, the business anticipates non-GAAP operating earnings in the range of 180 million dollars to 220 million dollars for the first half of this fiscal year, up from its earlier forecast of 160 million dollars to 190 million dollars.

In addition, Logitech predicted full-year revenues of 3.8 billion dollars to 4 billion dollars in its first prediction for this fiscal year.

According to the chief financial officer Charles Boynton, Logitech achieved steady success in cutting operational costs and inventories over the three months leading up to the finish of June.

The present economic decline presents a dilemma for Logitech because it hasn’t yet hired Darrell’s replacement. Darrell left last month to take the CEO position at VF Corporation (VFC.N), the company that makes Vans trainers and The North Face outerwear.

Darrell, who oversaw Logitech for ten years, is credited for the company’s comeback through more rapid product introductions and enhanced design.

Ericsson

Intel, Ericsson to work together on custom 5G chip

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The most cutting-edge manufacturing procedure Intel has revealed will be used to create a unique chip for telecommunications device producer in Sweden, Ericsson 5G networking equipment, the company announced on Tuesday.

“As our work together evolves, this is a significant milestone with Ericsson to partner broadly on their next-generation optimized 5G infrastructure. This agreement exemplifies our shared vision to innovate and transform network connectivity, and it reinforces the growing customer confidence in our process and manufacturing technology,” said Sachin Katti, Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Network and Edge Group, Intel. “We look forward to working together with Ericsson, an industry leader, to build networks that are open, reliable, and ready for the future.”

Source: ericsson.com
Ericsson
Image Source: verdict.co.uk

Competitors like the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company have surpassed Intel in the production of the most minor and most energy-efficient chips. Packing five generations of chip production advancements into a span of four years was a significant component of Intel Chief Executive Officer, Pat Gelsinger’s strategy, which was first unveiled in 2021, to reclaim that advantage and bring the firm around.

According to Intel, the new Ericsson chip will use Intel’s “18A” manufacturing method which would make it one of the first chips from outside users to do so.

“Ericsson has a long history of close collaboration with Intel, and we are pleased to expand this further as we utilize Intel to manufacture our future custom 5G SoCs on their 18A process node, which is in line with Ericsson’s long-term strategy for a more resilient and sustainable supply chain,” said Fredrik Jejdling, Executive Vice President and Head of Networks, Ericsson. “In addition, we will be expanding the collaboration that we announced at MWC 2023 to work together with the ecosystem to accelerate industry-scale open RAN utilizing standard Intel Xeon-based platforms.”

Source: ericsson.com

The release date of the chip was not disclosed by Intel or Ericsson, but the company has indicated before that its 18A manufacturing method will be available by 2025.

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The most recent node in Intel’s roadmap, 18A, was released four years ago. They will introduce ribbon architecture innovation along with enhanced performance to Intel 18A upon launching RibbonFET as well as PowerVia in Intel 20A. By 2025, these advancements will aid Intel in regaining the top spot while enhancing its consumer offers.

As the deployments of 5G proceed, completely configurable, open software-defined networks driven by the same cloud-native technologies that revolutionized the data center will be the wave of the future, bringing with them unmatched agility and automation.

The technology sector must cooperate and continue to synchronize network requirements within the framework of one worldwide set of rules to achieve the highest performance, and innovation, along with global scale. To provide their clients with these advantages in the direction of an industry-scale open RAN, Intel and Ericsson work in conjunction with other top technology firms.

Llama 2

What is Llama 2: Meta’s AI explained

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Earlier this week, Meta, the parent organization of Facebook, unleashed Llama 2, its second-generation open-source large language model (LLM).

Unlike its predecessor Llama 1, which was closely guarded and accessible only upon request, Llama 2 is now freely available for anyone to use, explore, and create cutting-edge AI-powered applications.

Llama 2
Image Source: dexerto.com

Powered by a massive amount of data, Llama 2 boasts significant improvements over its predecessor. Meta proudly claims that Llama 2 is trained on 40% more data and possesses double the context length, resulting in more accurate and powerful language generation capabilities.

This advancement enables the LLM to produce human-like responses, making it an ideal tool for building chatbots like ChatGPT and Google Bard.

Moreover, Meta has collaborated with Microsoft to co-develop Llama 2. This partnership ensures that the applications built with Llama 2 will soon be available not only on Windows PCs and laptops but also on smartphones powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon SoCs. The availability of this across multiple platforms opens up a world of possibilities for developers and end-users alike.

Llama 2 comes in three parameter sizes – 7B, 13B, and 70B – each catering to different use cases. However, Meta has decided to withhold the 34B parameter size from public release.

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While the model is open for research and commercial use, Big Tech companies with over 700 million users must seek permission from Meta before employing this, possibly to prevent any undue concentration of AI power.

The potential use cases of this LLM are vast and diverse. It can be leveraged to create consumer and enterprise chatbots, assist in language generation, fuel research, and power various AI-driven tools. However, despite its open-source nature, Meta places soft limits on enterprise users to ensure responsible and ethical AI development.

While Llama 2 exhibits impressive language generation abilities, it’s crucial to remember that chatbots built on these models may have certain limitations. As with any AI language model, the accuracy of responses depends on the questions asked and the data on which the model was trained. Tricky queries and coding-related questions tend to yield better results, while some basic inquiries may lead to vague or incorrect answers.

It’s important for users to exercise caution when interacting with AI-powered chatbots. Companies employing these chatbots may utilize user-provided data to further train the models, and there have been instances of malicious actors exploiting chatbots to steal sensitive information. As a precaution, refrain from sharing personally identifiable data with such chatbots.

Although this is not yet available as an end product like ChatGPT, it is accessible to those with expertise in working with LLMs. All three models of Llama 2 can be downloaded from Meta’s website, opening up exciting opportunities for researchers and developers keen on experimenting with this cutting-edge AI technology.

In conclusion, it represents a significant milestone in the world of AI language models. With its openness, power, and versatility, Llama 2 has the potential to revolutionize chatbots and language generation applications across various domains.

As more developers and researchers explore the possibilities of Llama 2, we can expect to witness exciting innovations that push the boundaries of AI and redefine human-computer interactions.