This week in the tech world, several noteworthy events took place, starting with the US government’s movement towards a potential ban on DJI drones. DJI is a Chinese-based company that dominates the drone market in the US, holding about 75% of the market share. The concern arises from the fact that companies operating in China often have to share their data and technology with the Chinese government, which raises red flags for the US government in terms of national security and privacy. While the bill is still making its way through Congress, it is a significant development that could have major consequences for amateur and professional photographers who rely on DJI drones for aerial photography.
Another highlight was the launch of CoPilot+ PCs, which are computers equipped with dedicated NPUs (Neural Processing Units) to perform AI tasks. Companies like Lenovo, Samsung, HP, Dell, and Microsoft have all introduced CoPilot+ models. While the AI capabilities of these computers are not yet fully developed, they do offer promising assistance in various tasks. Demo stations are available at tech stores like Best Buy, allowing consumers to experience the potential that AI technology holds in enhancing their daily computing experiences.
In the gaming world, Nintendo made an exciting announcement by introducing a Zelda-led game called ‘Echoes of Wisdom.’ This game stars the eponymous princess, finally putting an end to the misconception that Zelda is the protagonist of the Legend of Zelda series. The announcement came during the Nintendo Direct presentation, which also showcased new trailers for Metroid Prime 4 Beyond and Mario & Luigi: Brothership. Additionally, Nintendo Switch Online added four new games, including Metroid Zero Mission, Perfect Dark, Turok, and The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past.
In a humorous turn of events, a study revealed the lackluster abilities of AI assistants in generating jokes. Comedians tested AI chatbots like ChatGPT and Google Gemini to create stage-worthy material, and the results were less than impressive. The jokes produced by the AI assistants were described as bland and outdated, reminiscent of old cruise ship comedy from the 1950s. This highlights the current limitations of AI in understanding humor, showcasing that humor is still a feature in its beta phase in AI assistants.
Moving away from the digital realm, two film cameras also made headlines this week. Pentax released its first film camera in over 20 years, the Pentax 17. This half-frame point-and-shoot compact camera offers a unique experience for the modern generation interested in film photography. With its old-school look and the ability to capture twice the number of shots on a regular roll of 35mm film, the Pentax 17 caters to the growing trend of film photography.
Fujifilm also unveiled its Instax Wide 400 camera, replacing its decade-old Instax Wide 300 model. The Instax Wide 400 is ideal for capturing events with many guests, thanks to its larger prints measuring 99 x 62mm. While instant printers have gained popularity due to their compatibility with smartphone pictures, instant cameras like the Instax Wide 400 provide a delightful and nostalgic appeal.
Lastly, Xreal introduced the Beam Pro, a device that resembles a smartphone but is designed as an add-on for its AR smart glasses. The Beam Pro features a 6.5-inch LCD 2K touchscreen and dual 50MP cameras and allows users to stream games and shows to Xreal’s AR smart glasses. Priced at $199 for the 6GB RAM model and $249 for the 8GB RAM model, the Beam Pro offers an affordable option for AR enthusiasts who want to enhance their immersive experiences.
In conclusion, this week in tech saw significant developments in various areas, from potential drone bans and AI-powered PCs to gaming announcements and the introduction of film cameras. It is evident that technology continues to shape our lives in profound ways, and while there are limitations and concerns surrounding certain advancements, there is no denying the excitement and innovation that the tech world brings.
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