TECHSWU

Author

TECHSWU
March 14, 2025

Instagram is shaking up the way users share Reels with its exciting new feature, "Blend." Currently in testing, Blend is designed to personalize your Reels feed, allowing for seamless discovery and sharing of suggested videos directly within DMs.

With options like viewing each other’s recommended Reels and exclusive invites for select friends, Blend aims to enhance social interaction on the platform. This feature has been in development for some time and will likely see a wider rollout soon.

As Instagram steps up its game in the competitive world of short-form video—especially with looming plans for a standalone Reels app—Blend could be a game-changer for how users engage with content.

Imagine navigating the Apple Vision Pro—or any tech device—just by thinking about it. Sounds like sci-fi? It’s becoming a reality, thanks to Synchron, a pioneering startup focused on brain-computer interfaces (BCIs).

Their groundbreaking technology allows users to command devices through pure brainwaves, making interactions simpler and more intuitive. Pioneering the field, Synchron's COMMAND interface recently received FDA approval, enabling individuals, especially those with severe motor impairments, to regain independence.

In successful trials, patients controlled devices solely through their thoughts! With the Apple Vision Pro’s immersive capabilities, this innovation is poised to revolutionize how we engage with technology—imagine navigating virtual spaces and managing smart home devices effortlessly with your mind.

Talk the Talk: AirPods to Get Live Translation Magic with iOS 19!

Exciting news for Apple fans! Rumor has it that Apple is gearing up to introduce a groundbreaking live translation feature for AirPods with the upcoming iOS 19. Imagine effortlessly conversing with someone speaking a different language—your AirPods could handle the translation in real-time! This innovative addition would align Apple with competitors like Google’s Pixel Buds, which have already embraced such technology.

While details remain scarce, Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman suggests that this feature could leverage AI to enhance the translation experience. It’s speculated that iOS 19 will bring a complete redesign, so we might be in for more surprises.

Although it’s uncertain if the new translation feature will be exclusive to high-end models like the AirPods Pro 2, this advancement could transform our global interactions. Expect iOS 19 to be unveiled at WWDC this June.

Google Shopping is stepping up its game with a powerful new suite of AI tools that aims to revolutionize how we shop for fashion and beauty products! With features like vision match and enhanced virtual try-ons, users can now effortlessly visualize garments, from tops to skirts, on diverse models. This means you can explore multiple outfit options and look inspiration based on current beauty trends, all in the palm of your hand.

Plus, the new augmented reality beauty feature allows you to try on various makeup looks inspired by celebrities and influencers simultaneously! Google’s AI-driven approach addresses the common frustrations shoppers face when trying to find the perfect item. By merging online and in-store experiences, Google is making shopping more personalized and engaging than ever before.

WhatsApp is stepping up its privacy game with an exciting new feature that lets users control their camera before answering video calls! Currently, when a video call comes in, the front camera automatically activates, putting users on the spot. However, with this upcoming update, users will be able to mute their cameras before answering, making it perfect for those who prefer voice-only chats or simply want to avoid unwanted visibility.

This feature, currently being tested in a beta version, aims to enhance user control and security, especially amidst rising video call scams, like sextortion attempts. With a “Turn off your video” prompt, users can comfortably join the conversation without immediately revealing their appearance, with the option to switch their camera on during the call if they choose.

In a revealing chat with journalist Pablo Torre, Philadelphia 76ers president Daryl Morey discussed the surprising integration of artificial intelligence into the team's decision-making process amid a challenging season plagued by injuries, resulting in a disappointing 22-43 record. Morey shared that the Sixers employ advanced models as a 'vote' in assessing player moves and draft picks, underscoring the value of these AI insights compared to traditional scouting.

He believes that if these AI systems prove more reliable over time, they could take on greater significance in strategy discussions. However, fans might prefer if AI could devise ways to keep star players like Joel Embiid and Paul George healthier throughout the season.

As the NBA landscape evolves, the Sixers’ innovative approach highlights the growing role of technology in sports management.

Meet 'Barney': Kroger's Friendly Robot Revolutionizing Your Grocery Shopping Experience!

Kroger is rolling out a new pilot program featuring a friendly robot named "Barney" across 35 stores in Greater Cincinnati to enhance inventory management. This shiny blue-lit robot scans shelves to identify low or missing items, ensuring a more efficient shopping experience.

While shoppers may raise an eyebrow at the sight of a robot wandering the aisles, rest assured—Barney aims to help rather than take over. Kroger officials emphasize that this initiative, which began in 2024, is designed to free up team members to better serve customers.

The friendly robot even comes with a note reassuring shoppers about privacy, stating that it doesn't record personal information.