From The Verge · 40 stories
Amazon Prime Video launches AI lip-syncing for dubbed audio, starting with "Maxton Hall"
Amazon Prime Video introduced a new AI-powered feature that synchronizes actors' lip movements with dubbed audio, initially available for the English dub of the German series "Maxton Hall." This technology aims to improve the viewing experience for dubbed content by making lip movements match translated speech, with plans for broader implementation across its catalog.
OECD Report: Students Using AI Generally Score Worse, But Critical Assessment Improves Outcomes
A global OECD educational report indicates that students who use AI for studying generally perform worse than non-users, based on data from 760,000 15-year-olds across 91 countries. However, students who receive training to critically assess AI-generated information show improved performance, suggesting that moderate and intentional AI use combined with critical evaluation can be beneficial.
Adobe Integrates AI Generators Directly into Premiere Pro Timeline for Video Editing
Adobe is integrating new Generative Media tools directly into the Premiere Pro video editing software, allowing editors to generate video, sound effects, music, and soundscapes without leaving the project timeline. This update aims to streamline workflows by providing immediate access to AI models like Adobe Firefly, Google Veo, Runway, Luma, and Kling within the editing environment. The change matters because it reduces the need for external applications, potentially accelerating content creation for video professionals.
iOS 27 to introduce iPhone Handoff for sharing one phone number across two devices
Apple's upcoming iOS 27 will include a new feature called iPhone Handoff, allowing users to share a single phone number between two iPhones. This feature enables users to designate one device as primary and another as a companion, facilitating temporary switching between phones while retaining the same number.
Microsoft Claims Minimal Copyright Infringement by Copilot in NYT Lawsuit Filings
Microsoft submitted legal filings asserting that its Copilot chatbot rarely reproduces substantial portions of copyrighted material from news articles and books, citing discovery data. This claim is part of its defense against copyright infringement lawsuits from publishers, including The New York Times, and authors, arguing that AI training constitutes fair use.
NBA Suspends Steve Ballmer, Fines Clippers $30M Over Kawhi Leonard Endorsement Deal
The NBA suspended Steve Ballmer for one year and fined the LA Clippers $30 million, along with forfeiting five draft picks, following an investigation into a $28 million endorsement deal for Kawhi Leonard. The league's report found that claims made by Ballmer and Clippers president Gillian Zucker regarding the deal were inaccurate. This investigation was initiated after a podcast raised questions about the deal.
TikTok cancels congressional meeting over child safety concerns, says committee chair
TikTok withdrew from a scheduled public roundtable with the House Select Committee on China, according to Chairman John Moolenaar. The company reportedly cited concerns about being questioned on child safety practices, despite the meeting's original focus on data security and algorithms.
Philips Hue Integrates Nanoleaf Light Panels with New $40 Module
Philips Hue now supports Nanoleaf Hexagon, Triangle, and Mini Triangle wall panels through a new $39.99 Philips Hue x Nanoleaf Wall Light Module. This integration allows Nanoleaf panels to function as full Hue lights within the Hue ecosystem, enabling gradient light, scene compatibility, and use with Hue automations and entertainment features.
1Password faces backlash over $300,000 donation to Linux project by controversial figure
1Password received criticism from customers and internal employees after donating $300,000 to Omacom, the foundation behind the Omarchy Linux distribution, which was created by David Heinemeier Hansson (DHH). DHH has published blog posts with anti-immigrant views, leading to accusations that 1Password is supporting his controversial positions. This situation highlights the challenges companies face when associating with public figures who hold polarizing views.
Judge Rejects DOJ Request to Break Up Google's Ad Tech Business
A US District Court judge denied the Department of Justice's request to force Google to sell off parts of its ad tech business, opting instead for behavioral remedies. The court previously ruled that Google illegally monopolized markets for publisher ad servers and ad exchanges, but found the DOJ did not prove monopolization of advertiser-side tools.
Google Seeks Hollywood Licensing Deals to Train AI Models on Copyrighted Content
Google is reportedly pursuing licensing agreements with major Hollywood studios like Disney, Warner Bros. Discovery, and Universal to train its AI models on their copyrighted content. The tech giant is offering hundreds of millions to billions of dollars for these rights, aiming to gain an advantage in the AI race and improve public perception of generative AI.
NY Governor Hochul Addresses AI Regulation, 3D-Printed Guns, and Teen Social Media Use
New York Governor Kathy Hochul discussed her stance on several technology policy issues, including AI regulation, restrictions on social media for teenagers, and the state's ban on 3D-printed firearms. Hochul stated her intent to counter Cody Wilson's "Hochulization" tool, which aims to bypass the state's ban on 3D-printed guns by modifying file hashes without altering functionality.
Waymo Executive States Cameras Alone Are Insufficient for Full Autonomous Driving
Waymo's VP of Onboard Software, Srikanth Thirumalai, stated that cameras alone are not enough for safe, fully autonomous operations, advocating for a multi-sensor approach including lidar and radar. This statement indirectly challenges Tesla's camera-only strategy for its autonomous driving systems. The differing approaches highlight a fundamental debate within the autonomous vehicle industry regarding sensor reliance.
Volvo EVs to warn drivers of road hazards via vehicle-to-vehicle communication
Volvo is updating its EX90, ES90, and EX60 electric vehicles with new connected safety features that allow cars to warn each other about hazards like animals, pedestrians, roadwork, and accidents. This system uses vehicle sensor data to identify risks and share location-based alerts with other Volvo vehicles on the same road, enhancing driver awareness and safety.
DHS Announces $103,000 Fee for H-1B Visas, State Department Plans Mass Visa Revocation
The Department of Homeland Security announced a new fee of over $103,000 for H-1B visas, while the State Department plans to revoke up to 200,000 asylum seeker visas. These actions increase costs and restrictions for companies hiring foreign workers, potentially impacting the tech industry and other sectors that rely on these visa programs.
Polestar claims US sales ban blindsided company after believing approval was imminent
Polestar states it was misled by the Trump administration regarding its application to continue selling electric vehicles in the US, despite a rule banning vehicles with connected software from China. The company's request was denied, while its sister company Volvo received approval under similar circumstances, leading Polestar to announce it will stop US sales from the 2027 model year.
Creator of first 3D-printed gun develops tool to bypass gun-blocking 3D printer software
Cody Wilson, creator of the first 3D-printed gun, has developed a tool called "Hochulization" designed to circumvent government-mandated software intended to block 3D printers from creating firearms. This tool modifies file hashes without altering the 3D-printed object's function, complicating efforts by regulators to identify and prevent the printing of ghost guns.
Robotaxi Expansion Faces Increased Regulatory and Public Pushback Across US Cities
The expansion of robotaxi services is encountering growing resistance from local governments, labor unions, and safety advocates, leading to stalled legalization efforts and calls for stricter regulations in various US cities. This pushback highlights the challenges policymakers face in overseeing autonomous vehicle technology as it moves from development to widespread public use.
Netflix Reportedly Considers Integrating Third-Party Streaming Services into Its App
Netflix executives have discussed integrating third-party streaming services like Peacock and Fox One directly into its app, a significant shift from its traditional standalone model. This move could transform Netflix into a super-aggregator, potentially altering how consumers access streaming content and increasing competition for other platforms.
Grand Theft Auto VI Release Delayed to November 2026 Amidst New Leaks and Legal Action
Rockstar Games has delayed the release of Grand Theft Auto VI to November 19th, 2026, a year later than initially planned, and is facing new leaks of game sequences. Take-Two Interactive has issued subpoenas to Microsoft and Discord to identify individuals responsible for copyright infringement related to these leaks.
Nielsen integrates wearable device data and updated methodologies for viewership measurement
Nielsen is incorporating data from wearable devices and updating its methodology to improve viewership measurement, particularly for streaming content. These changes aim to provide more accurate co-viewing data and better represent diverse demographics in its audience panels.
Robin Williams' Children Revive Instagram to Combat AI Misuse of Likeness
Robin Williams' children have reactivated their late father's Instagram account to create a trusted space for his authentic legacy and to counter the unauthorized use of his voice and likeness by AI. This action highlights ongoing concerns within the entertainment industry regarding AI-generated content and the challenges of protecting public figures' digital identities.
Amazon Updates Terms to Mandate Arbitration and Class Action Waivers for Disputes
Amazon has updated its terms and conditions to require that customer disputes be resolved through binding arbitration and include a class action waiver. This change prevents customers from pursuing class action lawsuits against the company, channeling disputes into individual arbitration or small claims court.
Disney D23 2026 Reveals New Trailers for Star Wars, Marvel, and Disney+ Shows
Disney's D23 2026 event featured new announcements and trailers for upcoming Star Wars and Marvel projects, including a trailer for "Ahsoka" Season 2, details on the "Star Wars: Starfighter" movie, and a trailer for "Avengers: Doomsday." These announcements provide updates on major franchises and upcoming Disney+ content, impacting fans and the entertainment industry.
Suno Studio 2.0 adds MIDI support, automation, built-in effects, and a chatbot
Suno has released Studio 2.0, introducing MIDI support, automation features, and a suite of built-in effects, moving the platform closer to a full digital audio workstation. The update also includes a chatbot that can generate lyrics, musical parts, and apply effects based on the current project's context. These additions aim to expand the creative capabilities for users within the generative AI music platform.
Google Pixel 11 Series Introduces Camera Looks for Enhanced Image Control
Google is introducing a new "Camera Looks" feature for the Pixel 11 series, which rethinks how the camera processes and styles images. This feature provides users with more control over the camera's output by changing how image data is processed at the sensor level, moving beyond traditional computational photography to offer more authentic or traditional photographic styles.
Saber CEO denies replacing writers with ChatGPT, confirms AI use in game's experimental mode
Saber CEO Matthew Karch denied replacing writers with AI for the game "Rideshare Stimulator" after a former lead writer, Stella Sacco, claimed she was replaced by ChatGPT. Karch stated the main story was human-written, but an experimental free-ride mode uses AI for infinite passenger dialogue, which Sacco argues still constitutes replacement.
OpenAI's AI Solves 10 Long-Standing Mathematics Problems, Prompting Field-Wide Discussion
OpenAI announced that its advanced AI model, Astra, successfully solved 10 long-standing mathematics problems, some of which had remained unsolved for decades. This development is generating excitement among mathematicians for accelerating discovery, alongside apprehension about the future role of human researchers in the field.
FCC approves Reflect Orbital's Eärendil-1 space mirror, raising astronomy and safety concerns
The FCC has approved Reflect Orbital's Eärendil-1 satellite, an 18-square-meter space mirror designed to reflect sunlight onto Earth. Astronomers warn this could disrupt observations and potentially cause eye damage due to its brightness.
TikTok attributes delayed removal of Perez Hilton self-harm livestream to "moderator error"
TikTok stated a "moderator error" caused a 15-minute delay in removing a livestream by blogger Perez Hilton that appeared to show self-harm, despite its automated system flagging the content. This incident raises concerns about content moderation effectiveness on the platform, especially following recent layoffs in TikTok's US moderation team.
Trump Blames Minnesota Governor for Water System Cyberattacks, Despite Suspected Iranian Involvement
Donald Trump attributed recent cyberattacks on Minnesota's water systems to Governor Tim Walz, contradicting the consensus among federal agencies that Iran is likely responsible. This statement follows FBI warnings about spreading cyberattacks on American infrastructure, with CISA previously linking similar incidents to Iran.
NHTSA investigates 1.2 million Tesla vehicles for suspension failure reports
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating 1.2 million Tesla Model 3 and Model Y vehicles due to reports of suspension failure that could lead to a loss of directional control. This investigation impacts Tesla's reputation for vehicle safety and could result in a significant recall if the defect is confirmed.
Apple Reports Strong iPhone and Mac Sales Amidst Global RAM Shortage
Apple's third-quarter earnings report shows a 22 percent increase in iPhone sales and a 29 percent increase in Mac sales, totaling $109.4 billion in overall revenue. These sales figures occurred despite a global RAM shortage that has led Apple to raise prices on some devices and is expected to continue until at least 2027.
ABC opposes FCC's 'punitive' early license renewal demand, citing free speech concerns
ABC has formally opposed the FCC's demand for early renewal of its broadcast station licenses, calling the action "extraordinary and unprecedented." The company alleges the FCC's move is retaliation for content and viewpoints expressed on ABC network programs, aiming to chill broadcaster speech. This dispute highlights tensions between regulatory bodies and media organizations regarding content oversight and free speech.
Windows 11 struggles on Microsoft's Surface Laptop with 8GB RAM
Microsoft's updated Surface Laptop 13-inch now features 8GB of RAM, leading to performance issues with Windows 11. This model costs $950, notably higher than last year's version with 16GB RAM, highlighting concerns over RAM capacity in modern laptops.
Microsoft Q4 Earnings: Xbox Revenue Drops 10% While Cloud and AI Business Surges
Microsoft's fourth-quarter earnings report shows a 10% decline in Xbox revenue, including content, services, and hardware sales. This decline occurred as the company's cloud and AI segments experienced significant growth, with Microsoft Cloud revenue increasing by 27% to $59.3 billion and Azure revenue exceeding $100 billion for the first time. The shift highlights Microsoft's strategic focus on cloud computing and artificial intelligence as key growth drivers, contrasting with challenges in its gaming division.
Artists File Lawsuits Against AI Companies Over Copyright Infringement
Artists, including authors and illustrators, are filing lawsuits against AI companies like Anthropic, Stability, Midjourney, DeviantArt, and Runway AI, alleging copyright infringement for using their works to train AI models without permission. These legal actions highlight ongoing disputes regarding intellectual property rights and fair use in the context of generative AI development.
Perplexity launches Personal Computer AI agent for Windows PCs
Perplexity has released its Personal Computer tool for Windows, enabling Windows devices to function as local AI agents. This expansion allows the AI to interact with local files and applications, including Microsoft Office 365, directly within the Windows environment.
Facebook to test full-screen video interface, launches Seller app and free verification
Facebook will begin testing a "reimagined experience" later this year that prioritizes full-screen video content upon app launch, initially in video-preferring countries. This change, along with new apps for Marketplace sellers and Facebook Groups, and a free verification option, aims to retain users and compete with platforms like TikTok, as Meta collectively lost 20 million users in Q1 2026.
Amazon's Alexa Plus receives AI update for enhanced smart home and third-party service integration
Amazon is updating its Alexa Plus assistant with new AI capabilities to connect with a wider range of smart home devices and third-party services. This update allows Alexa Plus to handle more complex instructions for devices from brands like Bosch and iRobot, and integrate with services such as Priceline and Canva through the Model Context Protocol.