This week, Amazon and Microsoft are engaged in a competitive push to shape the future of consumer AI technology. Amazon is working to transform Alexa into a more advanced generative AI home assistant, introducing a revamped app and a new web portal. Meanwhile, Microsoft is focusing on retailers, launching a new feature called Copilot Checkout aimed at enhancing the shopping experience.
Additionally, Google is set to unveil its “AI Inbox” for Gmail, designed to function as an executive assistant for managing emails. The podcast also touches on a unique experiment with a smart bird feeder, which led to amusing results due to incorrect focal length. Furthermore, initial experiences with AI automation on Windows desktops were shared through the use of Vy, developed by Seattle's Vercept.
In a lighter segment, the hosts recommend the Netflix documentary Cover-Up, featuring renowned journalist Seymour Hersh. They ponder what insights could emerge if his extensive notes were processed through AI technology. The episode concludes with reflections on the recent closure of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, a significant loss in American journalism, and a mention of GeekWire's past contributions to the paper.
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