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Snap's CEO Told Me About Its New AR Glasses, Coming in 2026
CNET· 2025-06-10 17:36
Core Insights - Snap's AR Spectacles are set to launch in 2026, featuring a smaller design, improved battery life, and enhanced AI capabilities, positioning them in a competitive market for smart glasses [2][3] - The upcoming glasses will be standalone devices but are not intended to replace everyday glasses, focusing instead on delivering advanced computing experiences [6][7] Product Features - The new AR Spectacles will incorporate better battery life, with significant improvements expected compared to previous models, which had a battery life of only around 45 minutes [4][5] - Enhanced displays and optical capabilities are anticipated, allowing for a more compact form factor and improved user experience [5][8] AI Integration - Snap is introducing a depth-sensing tool that enables AI to recognize 3D environments, referred to as "spatial intelligence," which could enhance user interaction with their surroundings [8][9] - The glasses will support various AI services, including Google's Gemini AI, aiming to create a versatile AI platform within the AR ecosystem [9] Gaming and Collaborative Experiences - Multiplayer gaming is a significant focus for Snap's AR glasses, with features designed to facilitate collaborative experiences in real-world settings [10][11] - The glasses will support shared AR experiences, enhancing social interaction through gaming and other applications [11] Marketing and Distribution Strategy - Snap plans to create experiential demo opportunities for potential customers, moving away from traditional retail sales to immersive experiences [12][13] - The company is exploring various distribution methods, including installations at museums and pop-up events, to allow users to experience the product before purchasing [13][14]
Warner Bros. Discovery Is Splitting Up: What It Means for You
CNET· 2025-06-09 16:37
Core Points - Warner Bros. Discovery is splitting into two separate public companies: Streaming & Studios and Global Networks [2][4] - The split is expected to be completed by 2026, following the merger that occurred in 2022 [4] - Streaming & Studios will include HBO Max, Warner Bros. movies, gaming, and DC, while Global Networks will encompass Discovery Plus, CNN, Bleacher Report, and TNT Sports [3] Company Structure - Streaming & Studios will focus on streaming services and studio operations, including the newly renamed HBO Max [3] - Global Networks will manage traditional media assets and networks, including CNN and Discovery Plus [3] Consumer Impact - It remains unclear how the split will affect existing subscribers, particularly regarding content access and potential pricing changes [4][5] - Current services are not expected to undergo major changes immediately, with a focus on shareholder value and new ventures [5]
Warner Bros. Discover Is Splitting Up: What It Means for You
CNET· 2025-06-09 15:59
Core Points - Warner Bros. Discovery is splitting into two separate public companies: Streaming & Studios and Global Networks [2][4] - Streaming & Studios will encompass HBO Max, Warner Bros. movies, gaming, and DC properties, while Global Networks will include Discovery Plus, CNN, Bleacher Report, and TNT Sports [3] - The split is expected to be completed by 2026, following the merger that occurred in 2022 [4] Company Impact - The split may create confusion among streaming customers due to the generic nature of the new company names [2] - There is uncertainty regarding whether the split will affect consumer access to content on existing subscriptions, such as HBO Max [4] - Current services are not anticipated to undergo major changes, with a focus on shareholder value and new ventures rather than customer impact [5]
Meta Is Going Nuclear to Fuel Its Energy-Hungry AI Ambitions
CNET· 2025-06-03 14:49
Core Insights - The article focuses on the expertise of Tiffany Wendeln Connors in personal finance and credit cards, highlighting her background and passion for helping individuals make informed financial decisions [1] Group 1 - Tiffany Wendeln Connors is a senior editor for CNET Money, specializing in credit cards [1] - She has previously worked at The Penny Hoarder, covering personal finance topics [1] - Connors holds a bachelor's degree in journalism from Bowling Green State University [1] Group 2 - Her professional experience includes writing and editing for various publications such as the New York Post and Women's Running magazine [1] - Outside of work, she enjoys life in St. Petersburg, Florida, with her family and dog [1]
Ford Issues Major Recall of 1.1 Million Vehicles Due to Rearview Camera Glitch
CNET· 2025-05-28 21:50
Core Points - Ford Motor Company has announced a recall of over 1 million vehicles due to a rearview camera system issue that could lead to accidents and property damage [1][3] - The recall affects models released between 2021 and 2025, including electric and hybrid vehicles, with a specific focus on the rearview camera system that may experience delays, freezes, or failure to display [2][3] - The company received complaints regarding this issue, with at least one reported minor accident linked to the malfunction [3] Recall Details - Approximately 1.1 million vehicles are included in the recall, specifically targeting models such as the Ford F-150, Lincoln Nautilus, Mach-E, Bronco, Edge, Escape, Corsair, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, F-600, Expedition, Navigator, Transit, Ranger, and Mustang [3][6] - A free software update will be provided to rectify the issue, which can be performed by a dealer or through an over-the-air update [4] - Interim notification letters to vehicle owners are expected to be mailed by June 16, 2025, with a follow-up letter once the remedy is available, anticipated in the third quarter of 2025 [4]
Apple Buys Its First Ever Video Game Studio
CNET· 2025-05-27 22:53
Core Insights - Apple has acquired the two-person game studio RAC7, known for creating the Apple Arcade exclusive game Sneaky Sasquatch, to enhance its mobile gaming offerings [1][2][3] - The acquisition aligns with Apple's strategy to expand its presence in the profitable mobile gaming industry, which generated approximately $90 billion in revenue in 2023, accounting for about half of all gaming revenue [3][4] Company Strategy - Apple aims to support RAC7 in further developing Sneaky Sasquatch and plans to continue collaborating with third-party studios to enrich the Apple Arcade game library [2][3] - The move is consistent with industry trends where companies like Netflix and Microsoft have also acquired gaming studios to bolster their gaming services [3] Industry Context - Mobile gaming is a highly lucrative sector, and Apple's investment in RAC7 reflects its intent to capitalize on this growth opportunity [3][4] - The acquisition may lead to a more robust gaming experience for Apple Arcade users, enhancing the platform's appeal in a competitive market [2][3]
Target Is Latest Chain to Warn of Price Hikes Amid Tariff Uncertainty
CNET· 2025-05-21 19:49
Sales Performance - Target reported a nearly 3% decline in overall sales during the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period last year [4] - The number of transactions, both in-store and online, decreased by 2.4%, while customers spent 1.4% less [4] Impact of Tariff Policies - CEO Brian Cornell indicated that uncertainty surrounding President Trump's tariff policies contributed to reduced consumer spending [5] - The company is facing potential price hikes as a response to tariff impacts, which are being considered as a last resort [6] Strategic Responses - Target's chief commercial officer, Rick Gomez, mentioned that the company is exploring various strategies to mitigate tariff impacts, including negotiating new vendor deals and adjusting product order schedules [6] - Walmart has also warned of inevitable price hikes on various products due to similar tariff pressures, indicating a broader industry trend [7]
Meta Reportedly Delays 'Behemoth' AI Model: What This Could Mean for Its AI Tools
CNET· 2025-05-15 22:18
Core Insights - Meta has delayed the release of its Behemoth large language model (LLM) until fall, originally planned for April and then pushed to June [1][2] - Concerns have been raised regarding the improvements of Behemoth over the existing Llama 4 model, leading to the decision for further refinement [2][6] - The delay may position Meta further behind competitors like OpenAI and Google in the competitive AI landscape [5][6] Company Developments - Meta released Llama 4 in April, which is part of its family of LLMs [2] - The company aims to be a leading AI provider, integrating AI into its platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Messenger [4] - A standalone app for Meta AI was launched at the end of April, featuring a hub for Ray-Ban smart glasses [4] Industry Context - The AI market is highly competitive, with significant advancements being made by companies like OpenAI and Google [6] - The delay in releasing new models raises concerns about Meta's ability to keep pace with industry developments [5][6]
Walmart Warns of Price Hikes on Food, Tech and Toys, Blames Tariffs
CNET· 2025-05-15 17:17
Core Viewpoint - Walmart is set to increase prices on food, electronics, and toys due to rising costs from tariffs, despite a temporary reduction in tariffs on Chinese goods [2][3]. Group 1: Company Insights - Walmart, as the largest importer of container goods in the US, sources approximately 60% of its imports from China, which significantly impacts its pricing strategy [3]. - CEO Doug McMillon emphasized that Walmart cannot absorb the increased costs from higher import taxes, indicating a direct correlation between tariffs and retail pricing [2]. - The company remains focused on long-term growth, suggesting that it has historically emerged stronger from economic uncertainties [5]. Group 2: Economic Context - US consumers are already experiencing higher prices, with consumer sentiment declining for four consecutive months, raising concerns about potential decreased demand and its effects on the broader economy [4]. - Although consumer prices rose only 2.3% annually in April, experts warn that the full impact of tariffs has yet to be felt, which could lead to steeper inflation as importers pass on costs to consumers [6]. - The US Federal Reserve has indicated a likely scenario of lower growth and higher inflation, raising concerns about potential stagflation [7]. Group 3: Market Implications - The fluctuating tariff policies are expected to create volatility in consumer prices and spending patterns, affecting overall market dynamics [8].
Uber Introduces Its Own Version of Prime Day: Uber One Member Days
CNET· 2025-05-14 15:11
Core Insights - Uber is launching its first Uber One Member Days event from May 16 to May 23, coinciding with Memorial Day sales, offering exclusive promotions for Uber One members [1][4]. Promotions and Discounts - During Uber One Member Days, members will receive various discounts on rides, including 50% off shared rides, 20% off Uber Black, and 40% off Comfort Electric rides [4]. - The event will feature rotating deals across Uber, Uber Eats, and partnered brands, making food delivery more affordable during this promotional period [3]. Existing Membership Benefits - Uber One already provides benefits such as $0 food delivery, up to 10% off orders at participating locations, and 6% cash back on rides [5]. - A new benefit allows members to earn 10% of their Uber One credits back when using Uber Rent or Lime rides, enhancing the membership value [5]. Membership Enrollment - Non-members can sign up for a free one-month Uber One membership to access the exclusive deals during Member Days, with a reminder to check payment details if they do not wish to continue after the trial [6].