Category: Apps

Key Highlights

• Google brings Auto Dark Mode to iOS, automatically switching websites to dark mode
• Users activate it by enabling dark mode on their device
• Android users can expect this feature soon

Google is constantly striving to enhance user experience, and its latest offering for iPhone users is no exception – Auto Dark Mode. This new feature aims to seamlessly switch websites accessed through the Google app to dark mode automatically. Let’s delve into what this feature is all about and how it works. Also Read | Google Sheets Tips And Tricks: How To Add ChatGPT Extension To Google Sheets

Understanding Auto Dark Mode

Auto Dark Mode, as the name suggests, ensures that websites accessed via the Google app on iOS devices are displayed in dark mode, aligning with the app’s dark theme. This feature is part of Google’s Search Labs experiments and is currently exclusive to iOS users.

Activating Auto Dark Mode

To experience Auto Dark Mode, users need to enable dark mode on their iOS device. Once activated, all websites visited through the Google app will adopt the dark theme automatically. Users can toggle this feature on or off by tapping the breaker icon located in the top-left corner of the Google app interface.

Customizing Auto Dark Mode

For users who prefer not to use Auto Dark Mode for specific websites, Google provides an easy solution. By clicking on the new sun icon displayed in the address bar, users can revert to the original theme of the website, thus disabling Auto Dark Mode for that particular site.

Limitations and Expectations

It’s important to note that Auto Dark Mode does not apply to websites that already offer a native dark theme. Additionally, Google advises users that the quality of the conversion to dark mode may vary. While currently available only on the iOS Google app for iPhones, this feature is expected to roll out to Android devices in the future.

Upcoming Google Updates

Apart from Auto Dark Mode, Google is also focusing on enhancing Google Lens’ capabilities for image searches. An upcoming update will allow users to provide additional context for image searches more efficiently. Instead of pressing the shutter button and then tapping the voice search icon, users can simply hold down the shutter button to record their voice and provide context simultaneously, streamlining the search process.

Also Read | Is Google Listening To Your Conversations? Adjust These Phone Settings ASAP

Conclusion

Auto Dark Mode is a significant addition to Google’s efforts to improve user experience on iOS devices. By seamlessly integrating dark mode across websites accessed through the Google app, users can enjoy a consistent browsing experience. With further updates in the pipeline, such as improvements to Google Lens, Google continues to innovate and enhance its services for users worldwide.

Key Highlights

• Instagram is testing unskippable ads called “ad breaks” to benefit advertisers
• Users are unhappy, finding the ads disruptive to their experience
• The wider rollout of these ads depends on test results and user feedback

Instagram is reportedly testing unskippable ads on its platform, sparking mixed reactions among users. Recently, a number of users took to social media to express their surprise and frustration after encountering these new ads. Unlike the usual ads that users can scroll past, these ads, called “ad breaks,” last for 5 to 10 seconds and cannot be skipped. Also Read | Earth-Friendly Handles: 100+ Instagram Username Ideas For Environmental Sustainability

Confirmation From Instagram

A Reddit post initially brought attention to these unskippable ads, showing them labelled as “ad breaks.” Following this, more users reported similar experiences. According to TechCrunch, Instagram has confirmed the testing of these ads. A Meta spokesperson stated, “We’re always testing formats that can drive value for advertisers.” However, the spokesperson also emphasized that this testing phase is meant to assess performance and user sentiment. If the company decides to implement these ads more widely, they will provide updates.

User Reactions

Reactions from users have been largely negative. Many users find the unskippable ads disruptive to their browsing experience. A user on X (formerly known as Twitter), @TheDanLevy, shared details and called the move “bonkers.” The screenshot he posted showed an info icon next to the “ad breaks” label, which opens a bottom sheet explaining, “Ad breaks are a new way of seeing ads on Instagram. Sometimes you may need to view an ad before you keep browsing.”

Some users have even resorted to closing and restarting the app to avoid these ads. One frustrated Reddit user remarked, “I hope they know people will leave.” This sentiment was echoed by many others who feel that the introduction of unskippable ads could drive users away from the platform.

What This Means For Advertisers

For advertisers, this new format could potentially offer greater value. Unskippable ads ensure that users watch the entire ad, which could lead to higher engagement and better returns on ad spend. The Meta spokesperson highlighted that the goal of this test is to find formats that can benefit advertisers.

The Future Of Ad Breaks

As of now, it remains uncertain whether Instagram will roll out these unskippable ads more broadly. The company is closely monitoring user feedback and the overall performance of the ads during this testing phase. If they decide to implement these ads across the platform, they will provide further updates.

Also Read | Instagram Introduces Four New Stickers: What Are They, How To Use Them?

Conclusion

Instagram’s testing of unskippable “ad breaks” has generated significant user backlash. While these ads may drive better value for advertisers, many users are unhappy with the disruption to their browsing experience. The outcome of this test will depend on how users and advertisers respond in the coming weeks. For now, Instagram continues to evaluate the potential of these ads to ensure they meet the needs of both users and advertisers.

Key Highlights

• X now permits sharing consensual adult content with proper labeling
• Users must add content warnings to adult material; X will enforce this if not followed
• No adult content in profile photos/banners, and under-18 users can’t view it

The internet hosts a wide variety of content, including adult material. It’s not surprising that social media platforms are beginning to embrace adult content, often referred to as Not Safe For Work (NSFW) content. The latest platform to allow such content is X, formerly known as Twitter. Also Read | Best Instagram Features That Are Worth Trying

New Policy Introduction

Elon Musk-owned X has recently announced that it will permit the creation and distribution of adult content on its platform. The company has introduced specific Adult Content and Violent Content policies to clarify what can and cannot be shared on X. This move aligns with X’s belief in the autonomy of adults to engage with and create content that reflects their beliefs, desires, and experiences, including those related to sexuality.

What is Allowed?

According to X’s adult content policy, users are permitted to share and distribute “consensually produced adult nudity or sexual behavior.” However, this content must be properly labeled and should not be prominently displayed. In a support page, X stated, “You may share consensually produced and distributed adult nudity or sexual behavior, provided it’s properly labeled and not prominently displayed.”

X believes that sexual expression, whether visual or written, is a legitimate form of artistic expression. The platform supports adults’ right to create, share, and consume consensually produced material related to sexual themes.

Important Warnings

While X allows users to share adult content, there are specific guidelines that must be followed. Content needs to be appropriately labeled. Users are asked to adjust their media settings so that all images and videos are placed behind a content warning. This warning must be accepted before the media can be viewed. Users can also add a one-time content warning on individual posts.

X has warned that if users fail to mark their posts properly, the platform will adjust the account settings accordingly. This ensures that content warnings are in place to protect viewers from unexpectedly encountering adult content.

Restrictions

Despite allowing adult content, X has set some boundaries. Adult content is not allowed in highly visible places such as profile photos or banners. Additionally, users who are under 18 years of age or who do not include a birth date on their profile cannot click to view content marked as ‘Adult Content’ on the platform.

Also Read | Twitter Tips And Tricks: How To Download And Save Twitter Videos on Android, iOS Smartphones, Laptops/PCs

Conclusion

X’s new policy on adult content reflects a shift towards a more open and expressive platform, while still maintaining boundaries to ensure content is shared responsibly. By implementing these guidelines, X aims to provide a balanced approach that respects both content creators and viewers.

Key Highlights

• OpenAI has introduced GPT-4o to free ChatGPT users
• GPT-4o supports text, vision, and audio inputs
• Free users have limited access compared to paid subscribers

OpenAI has announced exciting updates for free ChatGPT users, now allowing them access to advanced capabilities previously available only to paid subscribers. This new development includes the release of GPT-4o, a multimodal large language model (LLM) that enhances the user experience with its speed and versatility. Here’s a closer look at what this means for ChatGPT users. Also Read | No Sign-Up Needed: OpenAI Enables Account-Free ChatGPT Access

What is GPT-4o?

GPT-4o is the latest iteration of OpenAI’s language models, designed to be faster and more efficient than its predecessor, GPT-4. It significantly improves upon existing text, vision, and audio capabilities, making it a powerful tool for a wide range of applications. GPT-4o is multimodal, meaning it can handle multiple types of input, such as text, images, and audio, seamlessly.

New Features For Free Users

One of the most notable changes is that free users can now access custom GPTs created by others. This opens up a world of possibilities, allowing users to leverage specialized models tailored for specific tasks or industries. Additionally, users can now ask questions about images and have the chatbot analyze charts. These capabilities were previously limited to paid subscribers.

Enhanced Interactivity and Multimodal Capabilities

GPT-4o brings several advanced features to the table. Users can utilize data analytics tools, vision capabilities, and even upload files for detailed analysis. This makes GPT-4o a versatile assistant for both personal and professional use. The model’s ability to understand and process different types of data inputs enhances its usefulness in various scenarios.

Voice interaction has also been improved, with reduced latency making conversations smoother. GPT-4o can understand nuances such as tone and background noises, and it can even convey emotions in its voice, providing a more engaging and human-like interaction. The model also supports multiple languages, broadening its accessibility to users worldwide.

Capacity and Limits

While free users have access to these powerful features, there are some limitations. Paid subscribers will enjoy up to five times the capacity limits compared to free users. Once free users exhaust their GPT-4o limits, the system will automatically switch to GPT-3.5 to continue the conversation, ensuring uninterrupted service.

Safety and Reliability

OpenAI has emphasized the safety of GPT-4o, incorporating filtered training data and refined model behavior post-training. This makes GPT-4o not only more reliable but also safer to use, minimizing the risk of inappropriate or harmful outputs.

Also Read | OpenAI Introduces GPT Store: Premium Users Can Now Buy Custom AI Models

Conclusion

The introduction of GPT-4o to free ChatGPT users marks a significant step forward in making advanced AI technology more accessible. With enhanced capabilities in text, vision, and audio processing, along with improved interactivity and safety measures, GPT-4o promises to deliver a superior user experience. Whether for personal, educational, or professional use, the new features of GPT-4o open up exciting possibilities for ChatGPT users everywhere.

Key Highlights

• Truecaller partners with Microsoft to let users create digital versions of their own voices
• Truecaller introduces a web client for Android users
• The features are being gradually introduced worldwide

Truecaller has announced a significant partnership with Microsoft. This collaboration will see the integration of Microsoft’s ‘Personal Voice’ technology from Azure AI Speech into Truecaller’s AI Assistant. This new feature allows users to create a digital version of their own voice, enhancing the functionality of the AI Assistant. Also Read | Truecaller Tips & Tricks: Check Steps To Turn Off Last Seen Feature On Android

Enhancing The AI Assistant Experience

Introduced in 2022, Truecaller’s AI Assistant incorporates various AI technologies designed to make call management more efficient. The AI Assistant can automatically answer phone calls, respond on the user’s behalf, screen calls, take messages, and record calls for later review. With the addition of Microsoft’s Personal Voice technology, Truecaller users can now have their digital assistant sound just like them when handling incoming calls.

Raphael Mimoun, Product Director and General Manager of Truecaller Israel, highlighted the significance of this feature. “The personal voice feature allows our users to use their own voice, enabling the digital assistant to sound just like them when handling incoming calls. This groundbreaking capability not only adds a touch of familiarity and comfort for the users but also showcases the power of AI in transforming the way we interact with our digital assistants,” Mimoun said.

Rolling Out Globally

The new personal voice feature is being gradually rolled out across all of Truecaller’s markets. This means that users who already have an AI Assistant on their app can now enhance their experience with a more personalized touch. Callers will hear an authentic version of the user’s voice instead of a generic digital assistant.

New Web Client For Android Users

In addition to the personal voice feature, Truecaller has introduced a new web client for Android users. This allows users to link their PC or Mac to their Truecaller account via a QR code, similar to the web versions of WhatsApp and Telegram. Currently, Indian users can only activate one web session at a time, and they will be automatically signed out after 30 days of inactivity. Users can also de-link a browser from the settings.

Strong Growth In India

Truecaller continues to see robust growth, particularly in India. The company reported an 8 percent increase in net sales in India for the first quarter (Q1) of the calendar year 2024. India accounted for 74.2 percent of Truecaller’s total net sales. The app has 314 million daily active users (DAU) worldwide, with 234.4 million of those based in India.

Also Read | Ever Wondered Who’s Calling? Learn How To Check Truecaller For A Number During Calls On iPhone

Conclusion

The partnership between Truecaller and Microsoft marks a significant step forward in the evolution of AI-powered digital assistants. By enabling users to create a digital version of their own voice, Truecaller is enhancing the personalization and user-friendliness of its AI Assistant. As this feature rolls out globally, it is set to redefine the way users interact with their digital assistants, making the experience more natural and comfortable.