Tech Trends 📰

Vercel debuts an AI model optimized for web development | TechCrunch

Vercel has launched a new AI model called “v0-1.0-md” focused on front-end and full-stack web development.. The model is accessible via API and supports text and image prompts; it’s currently in beta and requires a paid V0 plan.. It can handle large inputs (up to 128,000 tokens) and auto-fix common coding issues.. The model is compatible with tools using OpenAI’s API format and is evaluated using frameworks like Next.js.. Vercel’s launch follows a trend of companies releasing coding-focused AI models, although challenges like bugs and security issues still exist in AI-generated code..

Anthropic's new Claude 4 AI models can reason over many steps | TechCrunch

Anthropic launched Claude Opus 4 and Claude Sonnet 4, advanced AI models that handle complex reasoning, long tasks, and programming effectively.. Sonnet 4 is available to free and paid users; Opus 4 is exclusive to paid users and more powerful, priced at $15/$75 per million tokens via API.. Opus 4 beats leading models like Google Gemini 2.5 and OpenAI GPT-4.1 on coding benchmarks but doesn’t outperform all models in every area.. Both models can reason in steps, use tools like search engines, store useful info in memory, and show simplified reasoning summaries.. Anthropic is updating Claude Code with IDE integration and a new SDK, aiming to improve AI-assisted coding and developer workflows..

China Achieves Milestone in 6G Technology with Satellite-to-Earth Laser Transmission

China has successfully transmitted 6G satellite data to Earth for the first time.. The transmission was done using a laser at an impressive speed of 100 GB per second.. At this speed, users could download 10 full-length movies in just one second.. China aims to be the first country in the world to introduce 6G technology.. This achievement strengthens China’s position as a leader in advanced telecommunications..

Google Play adds topic pages, audio previews, and new subscription tools for developers | TechCrunch

Google Play is adding new topic pages where users can explore apps related to over 100,000 shows and movies. Developers can include audio previews of their apps which have helped increase installs up to three times. New subscription tools allow developers to sell base subscriptions and add-ons together with a single payment and offer a 30-day grace period for failed payments. The Play Console is getting upgraded with new tools and insights for testing releasing and improving app performance.

Google updates the Gemini app with real-time AI video, Deep Research, and more | TechCrunch

Gemini Live now supports real-time video and screen sharing for all iOS and Android users.. Gemini will integrate more deeply with apps like Google Maps, Calendar, and Tasks.. Two new AI plans launched—AI Pro ($20/month) and AI Ultra ($250/month) with advanced features.. Deep Research can now analyze user-uploaded PDFs and images to generate personalized reports..

GitHub’s new AI coding agent can fix bugs for you

GitHub launched an AI coding agent within Copilot that can fix bugs, add features, and improve documentation when assigned a task.. The agent sets up a virtual machine, clones the repo, analyzes the code, and logs its reasoning.. After completing its work, it tags the developer for review and can address feedback automatically.. It's available to Copilot Enterprise and Pro Plus users on GitHub’s site, mobile app, and CLI..

AI dev tools for Windows get a fresh coat of paint | TechCrunch

Microsoft launched Windows AI Foundry, a rebrand and expansion of Windows Copilot Runtime, to help developers build AI-powered apps more easily on Windows.. Windows AI Foundry offers a unified platform to fine-tune, optimize, and deploy AI models locally on Windows devices.. A key feature, Foundry Local, allows developers to run AI models directly on devices (Windows and macOS), using ONNX Runtime.. The platform auto-detects a device’s CPU, GPU, and NPU and fetches compatible AI tools and models, keeping them updated.. Developers can use a command-line interface (CLI) with commands like foundry model list/run and integrate Foundry Local via its SDK..

Huawei launches first laptops using home-grown Harmony operating system

Huawei has launched its first laptops (MateBook Fold and MateBook Pro) running on its own HarmonyOS 5, moving away from Windows/macOS.. The MateBook Fold is a foldable 18-inch OLED laptop priced at 23,999 yuan ($3,328), while the MateBook Pro starts at 7,999 yua. The laptops come with HarmonyOS, which already supports over 150 apps like WPS Office and Meitu Xiu Xiu.. Huawei started developing HarmonyOS in 2015 and laptop versions in 2021, amid U.S. sanctions restricting access to key technology.. The chip used in the new laptops wasn't disclosed, and high prices are due to advanced manufacturing costs..

Google Launches New AI-Powered Scam Detection Features

Google is using its AI model, Gemini Nano, to detect and block scams on Chrome, Google Search, and Android.. The AI already helps protect users from tech support scams and will soon expand to cover more threats on Android. A new feature in Chrome for Android detects spam disguised as website notifications and lets users unsubscribe or view blocked content.. Scam detection is coming to Google Messages and Phone by Google, alerting users if a call or text seems suspicious.. Users can override AI warnings if they believe the alerts are errors, maintaining control over blocked content and communication..

Qualcomm to launch data center processors that link to Nvidia chips

Qualcomm announced it will launch custom CPUs for data centers that can connect with Nvidia’s GPUs and software.. Connecting to Nvidia’s infrastructure is crucial because their GPUs are key to running AI workloads.. This move marks Qualcomm’s return to the data center market after earlier unsuccessful attempts.. It’s part of Qualcomm’s broader plan to expand beyond smartphones into PCs, cars, and now data centers..

WhatsApp introduces AI tool for profile and group pictures | The Express Tribune

WhatsApp has launched a feature for AI-generated profile and group pictures. Users can create images just by typing a text prompt. No need for real photos which is good for privacy. This feature is currently available to limited beta testers. Users get the option to generate an AI image while changing profile or group icon in settings.

How McAfee’s Scam Detector can help you spot fraudulent texts

Americans lost $16 billion last year to online scams, a big increase from before.. McAfee launched Scam Detector, a tool that scans emails, texts, and social media for scams in real time.. Scammers use AI and personal data to make very convincing scams.. Scam Detector warns users and educates them to avoid falling for scams..