Tech
The Shark FlexStyle is greater than the Dyson Airwrap
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Revlon One-Step, your reign is over. There is a brand new Dyson Airwrap dupe on town, and or not it’s the finest we now occupy ever seen — the Shark FlexStyle.
You occupy doubtless seen the FlexStyle for your For You page, and observed that unlike pretty noteworthy each diversified dupe available, it in truth looks as if the Airwrap. It has a wand homely and numerous alternative interchangeable styling heads, including Coanda tech-powered curling barrels — , those that magically wrap your hair spherical the barrel with out a hitch.
The resemblances don’t appear to be valid in its appearance. I’ve throughly examined each merchandise, and at the cease of the day, the efficiency is virtually indistinguishable. If anything else, the Shark offers just a few new aspects that sort me attain for it more.
Factoring in its $270 tag point, the Shark goes previous being a gold-normal dupe. Or not it’s an exquisite reproduction for only half of the worth and it also outperforms the novel.
What is available in the sphere
The accumulate loves jog down of anything else neatly-liked, so I acquire you would even be potentially itching to peek me abominate on the Airwrap. But sooner than we acquire into any essential comparisons, let’s streak over what you would even be in truth getting with the Shark.
Of course, it’s some distance dependent on what configuration you score. Right here’s what’s on hand:
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The most price-efficient two alternatives location you abet $269.ninety 9 will occupy to you store at Amazon and Easiest Aquire. The first option entails two 1.25-wander curling attachments, the oval brush, the hump brush, and the styling concentrator. For people with straight or a bit wavy hair, here’s a elephantine opt. While you happen to might perchance occupy wavier or curlier hair, the 2nd option entails all of the above, however swaps the hump brush for a diffuser. (These alternatives are also each on hand on Shark’s web sites, however for $300, so we recommend going for a Third-event retailer.)
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On Shark’s web sites finest, you would also use $279.ninety 9 to customize your abilities and decide any three attachments out of the six on hand alternatives (the two curling barrels depend as one attachment).
I got the wavy hair machine, plus the hump brush to take a look at up on.
Credit score: Bethany Allard / Mashable
Shark despatched me the wavy hair machine to take a look at, however also incorporated the hump brush on the aspect. The finest attachment I did not receive was once the newly-released extensive-teeth comb, however I contain not occupy the hair texture to properly test it anyway. Bought individually, each of the particular individual attachments will bustle you $29.95.
Shark also sends along a minute booklet of tricks on how to make use of every attachment, with ideas for the warmth and air settings.
No longer just like the Airwrap, you would also additionally use the FlexStyle attachment-free, due to homely’s skill to swivel and in most cases replicate the abilities of a standard hair dryer. I packed the homely by itself for a marriage I was once in, and it was once design less tubby in my earn than any jog hair dryer has ever been.
The price of the Shark FlexStyle versus the Dyson Airwrap
Now that the comparisons to the Dyson occupy begun in earnest, let’s acquire the whole design down to what in truth matters — the worth.
As a refresher, the Airwrap will bustle you $600 for six attachments, including two diversified sized curling barrels, a smoothing dryer attachment, two smoothing brushes, and a spherical volumizing brush. Any extra attachments will tag you $40 each, however Dyson does occupy more alternatives total.
Breaking it down completely by the desire of attachments, that is roughly $100 per attachment, and I will’t articulate each one justifies its field (having a seek at you, company smoothing brush and relaxed smoothing brush).
The FlexStyle, on the diversified hand, comes with four attachments, however as I talked about above, can characteristic as a dryer sans attachment. Therefore, that you should occupy 5 styling alternatives for $270, which breaks the whole design down to about $54 per attachment. Even with out the built-in drying, you would even be aloof paying about $67.50 per attachment, placing you design below the Dyson.
Minus just a few differences, the attachments offered are virtually a one-to-one.
Credit score: Bethany Allard / Mashable
The discrepancy in tag would not translate to a discrepancy in quality, either. The attachments conducted practically identically, the whole design down to the curling attachment the utilization of Coanda air tech to score your hair for you. Both stylers occupy three warmth settings, three fan speeds, and a groovy shot button or switch.
The finest diversified edge the Dyson has is its like carrying case, which I carry out opt for storage over the sphere the Shark is available in. I valid don’t opt it for $330 more.
The Dyson case feels more polished, however not $330 more polished.
Credit score: Bethany Allard / Mashable
Attachments breakdown
When I was once in the initiate despatched my pattern of the FlexStyle, I examined it for just a few weeks and feeble each attachment no lower than once, if not just a few cases.
I articulate in the initiate because after I was once accomplished attempting out and in the center of of penning this evaluation, Shark educated me that they wished to send me a more moderen pattern with an updated ALCI jog that was once supposed to lengthen the lifespan and sturdiness of the FlexStyle. The one I had been despatched was once a pre-begin version despatched to a restricted desire of customers, and a Shark spokesperson reassured me that someone with the “extinct” model was once despatched the updated version.
I articulate this for the sake of transparency, not because I observed a difference the least bit in the FlexStyle’s efficiency. I retested each attachment with the brand new pattern, all any other time no lower than once if not multiple cases for the related timespan. No longer one among the attachments or the homely as a standalone dryer conducted in any other case, and all of the attachments clicked in to the homely and stayed locked in with out a hitch.
With all of that acknowledged, here is how I found out the abilities of the utilization of every attachment that was once despatched to me. As I illustrious earlier on this evaluation, I failed to receive the brand new extensive-teeth comb supposed for coily and curly hair, nor might perchance well I in truth occupy accurately examined it.
Auto-wrap curlers
When I reviewed the most contemporary version of the Dyson Airwrap, I went on and on about how grateful I was once to take a look at the curling attachment that failed to require switching barrels and was once pretty dramatic about how detrimental that might perchance well’ve been to my minimal hair-styling endurance.
Then, the FlexStyle arrived and I saw that Shark’s curlers are exactly like of the Airwrap’s first abilities, which require you to replace barrels to replace instructions of the curls. And that? That is a form of moments where I acquire to teach their non-public praises my maturity and admit that I was once faulty. It was once in truth not that massive of a deal to replace out the curling wands mid-styling.
Assemble not acquire me faulty, it supposed that I pretty noteworthy stuck to the watch of curls going one direction — some distance from my face — on either aspect of my head. On the replacement hand, what I observed with these curlers, and with hot air styled curls in normal, is that on my hair, they watch the finest and frustrate me the least after I lean in to a more very loosely curled blown-out watch. The more structured curl watch that I will with out issues manufacture with a curling wand merely would not closing when the utilization of a hot air styler. (Allegedly, there are techniques to acquire hot air styled curls to closing, however they’ve by no approach worked for me, and are frankly some distance too time ingesting to be worth it.)
The curls regarded decent incandescent after styling.
Credit score: Bethany Allard
But embracing more blown-out voluminous curls made me noteworthy happier with the implications.
Credit score: Bethany Allard
All this to articulate, I contain not mediate switch the direction of the curls makes that massive a difference whereas you would even be going for the free curl watch with the plan to add valid a bit dimension and quantity. Plus, my free curl design took less time and let me style on dry hair, which made me design more at risk of attain for these attachments.
OK, closing thing on the curlers after which we can circulation on — they accumulate not occupy a longer barrel version supposed for longer hair, like those I examined with the Airwrap. Eager on the ends of my hair are closer to the backside of my abet than my shoulders, I anticipated it will also pose a suppose, however once all any other time, Shark proved me faulty. Sure, the hair wrapped spherical itself more, however I in truth did not obtain myself having to alter allotment sizes. The wand was once valid at winning at grabbing my hair, and the style lasted for the related amount of time.
Styling concentrator
Whereas I will’t articulate the utilization of the concentrator gave a vastly difference abilities from the sans-attachment dry, it did acquire a form of moisture out of my hair in below quarter-hour. I aloof had some frizz, however I tough dried my hair, so as that was once to be anticipated. Whereas or not it’s potentially the most redundant attachment since you do not want it to tough dry your hair, I might perchance well see a more directed air hurry having a time and build, particularly will occupy to you pair it with a brush. It does acquire parts for being immense shrimp and straightforward to retailer or pack.
It lowkey looks as if a vacuum attachment, however the styling concentrator gets the job accomplished.
Credit score: Bethany Allard / Mashable
Oval brush
My reliable tier rating of hot air oval brushes I’ve tried is as follows: the Revlon One-Step, the 2nd abilities Airwrap, after which the Shark FlexStyle. Or not it’s not that the FlexStyler’s brush was once negative — I in truth in truth loved the design my hair came out, and I’m in most cases not an mountainous fan of my hair with out some defined waves or curls in it. I also loved that the barrel was once greater than that of the Airwrap, as it felt like I might perchance well acquire more quantity and prance in my hair.
My favourite fragment of my job is taking photos of myself (however seriously, my hair looks good).
Credit score: Bethany Allard / Mashable
What got me was once the design it felt the utilization of this attachment with the swivel fragment of the homely. Working with a spherical brush to style your hair requires little bit of stress, and I might perchance well see and feel the homely on the Shark transferring ever so a bit. It was once by no approach ample to trigger ache, on the replacement hand it was once noticeable. Easy, I in truth can’t complain that noteworthy. Working in sections from 80 percent dry hair, it finest took me about 25 minutes to fully style my hair, and I cherished the implications.
Gallop brush
This was once my non-public least favourite attachment, mostly because all any other time, not so noteworthy partial to my hair straight. While you happen to shall be not in truth shopping for a ton of quantity, and opt gentle swish hair better than the relaxation, the hump brush will be your finest pal.
It was once immense easy to make use of, and did not yank or tug, which particularly impressed me because I in truth occupy forever knotty hair. I began from about 80 percent dry hair, though some sections had been more damp than others, and was once in a position to acquire perfectly straight and dry hair in 10 minutes.
Curl defining diffuser
My wavy hair and I had been stoked to be despatched a diffuser, and the Shark one did a elephantine job.
Veritably, I could use a diffuser to give an total dry to my hair, then pixie diffuse — a approach where you let minute sections of hair fall into the bowl of the diffuser, scrunch upward, and preserve it into build for 15 to 30 seconds.
Although Dyson does offer a comb attachment for curly hair, there’s no diffuser for the Airwrap. This gave the Shark an mountainous edge, and was once one among the greatest factors in figuring out that it outperformed the product it was once made to dupe.
I’m not immense valid, and I in most cases finest streak for no subject percent dry hides that reality that I washed my hair valid sooner than I went out in public in the center of the afternoon. Although my course of can lean on the haphazard aspect, I cherished how noteworthy alter this diffuser gave me in styling my hair. I might perchance well alter the prongs to be long (Shark recommends this for roots/longer hair) or quick (for shorter hair or ends). The long prongs sort grabbing sections and of course retaining it for pixie diffusing so easy.
The Shark FlexStyle versus my normal diffusing machine.
Credit score: Bethany Allard / Mashable
Having that alter not finest made the course of of styling more satisfying, however I mediate it in truth gave me greater results. For a fun, very un-scientific experiment, on one test I dried half of my hair with the FlexStyle and the diversified half of with my normal blow dryer and diffuser combo (a BabylissPro Nano Titanium and its matching diffuser). When I feeble the Shark, I had less anxiety retaining sections in the bowl of the diffuser, which led to more defined waves. I observed the longer prongs when entering into my root to dry with some take. Most of all, I loved I might perchance well carry out the total dry in dryer mode after which switch to wand mode for pixie diffusing.
No wand mode for the BabylissPro.
Credit score: Bethany Allard
The timing was once about the related, and all any other time the implications weren’t that diversified, on the replacement hand it made me, a devout air dryee, in truth are attempting to drag out a blow dryer more. Although Dyson does offer a comb attachment for curly hair, there’s no diffuser for the Airwrap. This gave the Shark an mountainous edge, and was once one among the greatest factors in figuring out that it outperformed the product it was once made to dupe.
Although I aloof foremost to circulation in with a hair oil to aloof the frizz, the left aspect (styled by the FlexStyle) had noticeably more defined waves than the incandescent (styled by my customary dryer).
Credit score: Bethany Allard / Mashable
More reward for the total compose
The Shark’s homely is a bit bigger than the Dyson’s, however of course each are form of surprisingly vast whereas you first pull them out of the sphere. Eager on you would also twist the Shark, the additional wander and a half of or so made sense.
Weight-wise, the Dyson is ever so a bit lighter, with finest 24 oz on Shark’s 24.64 oz. I might perchance well tell a difference after I held each wands in either hand, however after I was once styling, I did not mediate twice about it.
One smaller replace that Shark made that I particularly preferred was once knocking down the barrel of the homely where the energy switch, air, and temperature buttons had been positioned. It made it immense easy to hit the cool shot button with out having a seek, or replace the air tempo after I was once diffusing my hair.
The flat aspect of the wand makes it easy to uncover the buttons with out having a seek.
Credit score: Bethany Allard / Mashable
Is the Shark FlexStyle worth it?
Very just like the Airwrap, the FlexStyle is just not an absolute a must occupy hair styling instrument, particularly will occupy to you already accumulate a blow dryer and a few hot instruments.
On the replacement hand, will occupy to you would even be having a seek to replace to hot air styling to abet your hair out for frequent styling, the FlexStyle is 100% worth it. Admittedly, I am any individual who would noteworthy rather accumulate more effort into their makeup than hair, however I found out myself attempting to style my hair more in most cases with the FlexStyle.
Although it has some minor flaws, at $270, those are noteworthy more uncomplicated to observe previous than those of the Airwrap. Between the FlexStyle and the Airwrap, or not it’s laborious for me to mediate a the explanation why you would opt for the latter unless you would even be into vast purchases for the sake of vast purchases, or will occupy to you would even be particularly true to Dyson. But if neither of those apply to you, then there’s a greater vacuum company making hair tech to throw an awfully much smaller amount of you money unhurried.
You might perchance well know Shark for their vacuums and not their hair merchandise, however clearly it’s some distance rarely very unlikely for a tag to efficiently sort that pivot. If any other tag is going to forge down Dyson’s course, we are going to apply and trace what they’re doing — particularly in the event that they’re offering this form of transparent Airwrap replacement.
I examined the FlexStyle for numerous weeks, so I might perchance well use each attachment no lower than once. After those numerous weeks, Shark requested to send me a brand new pattern, because the test pattern that they had despatched me sooner than begin did not near with an improved ALCI jog that was once supposed to lengthen the lifespan and sturdiness of the FlexStyle.
I retested each attachment on the more moderen pattern, and observed no difference in day-to-day efficiency. I also by no approach skilled any factors with the novel pattern, and a Shark spokesperson reassured me that the restricted desire of customers that did receive the older version of the product had their devices changed.
Finally, a quick profile of my hair, which persevered your whole attempting out: My hair is long, supreme, with waves that take a seat between a 2A and 2B pattern. Or not it’s inclined to dryness at the ends, and in most cases can preserve curled kinds for just a few day and straight kinds for one to two days, equipped that no water or humidity touches my hair.
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Styling time: It is not crucial if or not it’s a groovy knowing, if curling your hair with hot air in preference to hot wands takes very much longer, we are going to wager it acquired’t take long sooner than you opt for the less healthy and more convenient design. Reckoning on the attachment, the FlexStyle took wherever from 10 to forty five minutes to style hair, retaining it fixed with diversified hot air stylers, timing-wise.
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Heat settings: Every person’s hair is diversified, meaning they’ll withstand diversified temperatures. With that acknowledged, no one will occupy to aloof be blasting their hair with 400 diploma plus temps on the reg, unless they ask to take on some destroy. The FlexStyle measures and regulates temperature 1,000 cases per 2nd to sort sure the air temp is fixed and not overly negative to the hair. Handiest at its freshest surroundings did it initiate to feel in truth hot, however even then, not virtually as hot as any normal curling wand or straightener. The heart warmth surroundings was once in most cases better than ample to lock in kinds.
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Range of attachments: A versatile hair instrument is finest beautiful noteworthy as good as its attachments. Although the Coanda air curling barrels are what draw many to this make of hot air styler, Shark in truth has a solid vary of styling instruments, from the conventional spherical brush, concentrated dryer, the diffuser, and the hump brush. It might perchance perchance well even be nice to peek some wider and narrower curling attachments in due course, however for their first iteration, one size is just not a negative build to initiate.
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Storage: An all-in-one hair instrument loses out on its ease component if it turns precise into a anxiety to retailer. Like the Dyson Airwrap, the Flex Styler is sure to take in amount of plight. No longer just like the Airwrap, it would not near with a dedicated carrying case, which makes your whole storage course of loads less organized.
Bethany Allard is a having a seek reporter at Mashable covering beauty tech, dating, and sex and relationships. She graduated from Novel York College with a B.A. in Journalism and English Literature. You might perchance also apply her on Twitter @betallard and attain her by electronic mail at [email protected].
Apple is in discussions with Tencent and TikTok owner ByteDance to integrate their artificial intelligence (AI) models into iPhones sold in China, according to Reuters sources. This initiative follows Apple’s rollout of OpenAI’s ChatGPT on its devices globally. However, ChatGPT remains unavailable in China due to strict regulatory requirements, compelling Apple to seek local partnerships to implement AI features in the region.
The discussions with Tencent and ByteDance are at an early stage, with no public comments from the companies. These partnerships, if successful, could strengthen Apple’s AI capabilities in China while boosting Tencent and ByteDance’s standing in the country’s competitive AI market. Both companies are prominent players, with ByteDance’s Doubao and Tencent’s Hunyuan among the leading large language models.
Apple’s prior talks with Baidu over integrating its AI model reportedly stalled due to technical challenges and disputes over using iPhone user data to train AI models. Baidu’s shares fell 4.2% after the news, while Tencent’s shares rose 2.3%.
The lack of advanced AI features in Apple’s latest iPhones sold in China has become a significant hurdle, especially as the company faces growing competition from domestic brands like Huawei. Huawei’s Mate 70 series, powered by proprietary AI technology, has gained significant traction. According to IDC, Apple’s iPhone sales in China dropped 0.3% year-on-year in Q3 2024, while Huawei’s surged by 42%.
Apple’s declining market share in the world’s largest smartphone market underscores the urgency of securing partnerships with local tech giants like Tencent and ByteDance to roll out AI features tailored for Chinese consumers. As Apple pushes to maintain its competitive edge, integrating AI capabilities into iPhones in collaboration with local leaders like Tencent and ByteDance could be key to regaining momentum in China.
As the holiday shopping season accelerates, Cyber Monday 2024 is poised to smash previous records, with consumers expected to spend a staggering amount online. Following the success of Black Friday, where shoppers spent a record $10.8 billion online, Cyber Monday is expected to see even more significant numbers as e-commerce continues to dominate the retail landscape.
Shoppers Spend Big This Holiday Season
Shoppers are already on track to break spending records in 2024. With just a few days left in the post-Thanksgiving shopping marathon, online retail is forecasted to reach an all-time high, setting a new benchmark for Cyber Monday. According to industry analysts, this year’s Cyber Monday could see U.S. consumers spending over $13 billion, making it the biggest online shopping day of the year. This surge follows the impressive spending seen on Black Friday, which saw a massive $10.8 billion spent online, a 10.2% increase over last year.
Retailers across the U.S. are gearing up for one of the busiest shopping days of the year, offering deep discounts and exclusive deals, further driving up sales. Many major brands have extended their sales over multiple days, offering customers plenty of opportunities to snag deals well before Cyber Monday arrives.
Record-Breaking Retail Sales Expected
The 2024 holiday shopping season is shaping up to be one for the history books. U.S. retail sales are expected to hit a record-breaking $75 billion during the holiday season, signaling robust consumer demand despite concerns about inflation. Retailers are seeing more shoppers than ever turning to online platforms for their holiday purchases. With an expanding range of products—from electronics and beauty items to home goods and fashion—the e-commerce boom is set to continue throughout the season.
As shopping habits shift, more consumers are taking advantage of “buy now, pay later” services, which are becoming increasingly popular during the holiday season. This allows shoppers to break up the cost of their purchases, making it easier to take advantage of deep discounts without putting a strain on their wallets.
The Growing Dominance of E-Commerce
This year, e-commerce is expected to continue its dominance, with both retailers and shoppers embracing the convenience of online shopping. Consumers have become accustomed to shopping from the comfort of their homes, and major retailers are offering a seamless online experience to match. As a result, physical store traffic has been on the decline, with more shoppers opting for the ease and flexibility of online purchases, especially on days like Cyber Monday.
In addition to record-breaking spending, experts are also forecasting an increase in “experience-driven spending.” Shoppers are more likely to splurge on self-gifting this season, treating themselves to everything from tech gadgets to personal care items. Categories like electronics, fitness products, and beauty items are among the biggest winners in the race for holiday sales.
A Strong Economy Fuels Record Spending
Despite concerns over rising inflation and potential tariff increases, the U.S. economy remains resilient. Economic indicators suggest that consumer confidence is strong, with spending growth expected to continue into 2024. Even with the challenges posed by inflation, consumers are eager to take advantage of the holiday deals, ensuring that retailers see a record-breaking finish to the year.
The forecasted $75 billion in retail sales is a testament to the ongoing strength of the American consumer. As retailers continue to adapt to changing shopping behaviors, it’s clear that the future of retail is online, and Cyber Monday will continue to be a highlight of the shopping season.
Cyber Monday 2024 is shaping up to be a landmark event in the world of retail. With shoppers already breaking records, spending an impressive $10.8 billion online on Black Friday, and consumers forecasted to hit new highs this Monday, it’s clear that e-commerce is driving the retail boom. As U.S. retail sales soar toward a record-breaking $75 billion this holiday season, it’s evident that the future of shopping is digital, and Cyber Monday remains a key pillar in the ever-evolving landscape of online retail.
Tech
Apple’s Latest Patent Revolutionizes Home Security with Facial Recognition and Bodyprint Technology
Elon Musk, the visionary entrepreneur behind Tesla, SpaceX, and Neuralink, has always been a prominent advocate for artificial intelligence. But his relationship with OpenAI—a company he co-founded in 2015—took an unexpected turn when he parted ways with the organization in 2018. What caused this high-profile breakup? Here’s a deep dive into the internal dynamics and the events that led to the split.
The Genesis of OpenAI
Elon Musk co-founded OpenAI with a bold mission: to ensure artificial intelligence benefits all of humanity. At its inception, OpenAI was a non-profit, emphasizing ethical AI development. Musk was instrumental in funding the initiative, pledging millions to support its vision. His influence, alongside other co-founders, helped position OpenAI as a global leader in AI research.
Inside Elon Musk’s Vision for AI
Musk has long been vocal about the potential dangers of artificial intelligence. He feared that without proper oversight, AI could spiral out of control. This fear was a driving force behind his involvement in OpenAI. According to Musk, the goal was to create a counterbalance to corporate AI giants like Google and Microsoft, ensuring a safer future for humanity.
What Went Wrong? The Internal Struggles
The split between Elon Musk and OpenAI was reportedly due to internal disagreements over the direction of the organization.
- Diverging Visions
Musk’s vision for AI safety clashed with OpenAI’s evolving approach. While Musk prioritized caution, OpenAI began exploring cutting-edge, transformative AI applications, which Musk feared might become too powerful or misused. - Leadership Disputes
Internal reports suggest Musk proposed taking over OpenAI to realign it with his vision. However, his proposal was rejected, leading to friction between Musk and other co-founders. - Transition to For-Profit
In 2019, a year after Musk’s departure, OpenAI shifted to a “capped-profit” model, allowing the organization to raise funds from investors. Musk publicly criticized this move, arguing it deviated from OpenAI’s original non-profit ethos.
Elon Musk’s Next Steps
After his departure, Musk didn’t abandon AI entirely. Instead, he doubled down on his AI-related efforts through other ventures:
- Tesla’s AI Initiatives
Tesla’s autonomous driving technology heavily relies on AI, with Musk leading innovations in neural networks and machine learning. - Neuralink
Musk’s brain-computer interface company, Neuralink, reflects his desire to merge human intelligence with AI to stay ahead in the AI race.
OpenAI After Elon Musk
Despite Musk’s departure, OpenAI has grown exponentially. Its flagship product, ChatGPT, has become a household name, revolutionizing the way we interact with AI. However, critics argue that OpenAI’s transition to a for-profit model aligns it more closely with the corporate entities it once sought to counteract.
Final Thoughts: A Complex Legacy
The breakup between Elon Musk and OpenAI highlights the complexities of balancing innovation, ethics, and corporate governance in the AI industry. While Musk’s departure marked the end of an era for OpenAI, it also paved the way for new advancements in AI under his other ventures.
This chapter in Musk’s career serves as a reminder of the importance of aligning vision with execution—especially when dealing with transformative technologies like artificial intelligence.
In the age of technology, artificial intelligence (AI) is making significant strides in travel planning. AI travel assistants are changing the way we plan our trips, offering convenience and quick results. However, despite the impressive skills of AI, human expertise remains indispensable in crafting the perfect trip. While AI can enhance the planning experience, it is far from replacing the nuanced touch of experienced human agents.
AI excels in certain aspects of trip planning, particularly when it comes to comparing prices, finding nearby amenities, and providing tailored recommendations. It’s helping travel enthusiasts save time by quickly whittling down vast amounts of data into something manageable. Whether you’re searching for the best flights, exploring local activities, or trying to find a nearby restaurant, AI tools can offer instant suggestions based on your preferences.
A February 2024 survey by Adobe found that over half of Americans have already used AI to assist in travel planning. From discovering working hours for hotel services to finding parking, restaurants, and pharmacies, AI tools are simplifying the trip planning process. The power of AI lies in its ability to analyze large amounts of information and provide quick, general recommendations—perfect for travelers who need to make fast decisions or get a rough idea of what’s available.
While AI is an excellent tool for streamlining the planning experience, it still has limitations. One of the main gaps AI faces is its reliance on static data. For example, when it comes to the latest information—like changes in flight schedules, hotel availability, or the availability of new attractions—AI models often lack real-time updates. This is where human expertise shines. Travel agents and industry professionals who stay on top of current trends and updates offer a level of insight that AI simply cannot replicate.
Moreover, while AI can suggest popular destinations or activities, it cannot uncover local favorites or hidden gems. Human agents, with their years of experience and personal knowledge, are often the best source for these unique, off-the-beaten-path recommendations. If you’re seeking a truly personalized travel experience, human expertise is key.
AI has its place in travel planning, but there are times when it should not be relied upon as the sole source of guidance. For instance, when you need the most up-to-date information or when planning a complex, multi-leg trip that requires specific expertise, a human travel agent is invaluable. AI may also struggle when it comes to booking certain travel services, such as airline tickets or hotel rooms, which often require flexibility or custom arrangements.
That being said, AI can still be a valuable assistant in the planning process. It’s ideal for tasks like comparing prices, exploring activities, and getting quick suggestions based on general preferences. But when it comes to crafting a detailed, personalized trip plan that goes beyond the basics, human travel agents remain essential.
AI is transforming the travel industry, offering tools that make trip planning faster and more efficient. Its ability to sift through vast amounts of data and provide quick recommendations is certainly a game-changer. However, while AI can assist with many aspects of travel planning, it cannot replace the skill, experience, and personalized touch that human agents bring to the table.
When planning your next trip, consider using AI to streamline your research and save time, but don’t overlook the value of consulting with a human expert to ensure your travel experience is seamless, enjoyable, and truly unique. The future of travel planning lies in combining the best of both worlds: the speed and convenience of artificial intelligence, paired with the expertise and personalization of human guidance.
The technology landscape is evolving rapidly, and 2025 promises to be a year where groundbreaking innovations reshape industries, enhance daily life, and address global challenges. From the rise of generative AI to the continued expansion of 5G, here are the top 10 emerging technology trends you can’t afford to ignore in 2025.
1. Generative AI: Revolutionizing Creativity and Productivity
Generative AI is one of the most transformative trends in technology today. By 2025, generative AI will continue to disrupt industries like content creation, marketing, and design, allowing businesses to automate complex tasks and enhance personalization at scale. The ability of AI to generate human-like content, such as text, images, and audio, will fuel new opportunities for creativity, efficiency, and innovation, especially for businesses looking to stay ahead of the competition.
2. Quantum Computing: Unlocking Unimaginable Possibilities
While still in its developmental stages, quantum computing holds the key to solving complex problems that classical computers cannot. By 2025, quantum computing will make significant strides in fields such as cryptography, drug discovery, and AI, offering unprecedented computational power. The technology promises to revolutionize industries by enabling faster data processing and solving intractable problems in a fraction of the time it would take today.
3. 5G Expansion: Transforming Connectivity and IoT
The expansion of 5G technology will continue at an accelerated pace, significantly improving internet speeds and reducing latency. By 2025, 5G will be the backbone of next-generation technologies like IoT (Internet of Things), autonomous vehicles, and augmented reality. With faster, more reliable connections, businesses and consumers will experience seamless, real-time communication, further fueling innovation and growth in a wide range of industries.
4. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR): The Future of Interaction
AR and VR technologies are becoming increasingly mainstream, offering immersive experiences that transform everything from gaming to healthcare. In 2025, the application of AR and VR will expand beyond entertainment into areas such as education, real estate, and remote work. With advancements in hardware and software, these immersive technologies will blur the line between the physical and digital worlds, creating exciting new opportunities for businesses and consumers alike.
5. Edge Computing: Enhancing Speed and Efficiency
Edge computing is the next evolution of cloud computing. By processing data closer to its source, edge computing reduces latency and accelerates real-time decision-making, making it ideal for industries reliant on immediate data analysis, such as healthcare, autonomous vehicles, and smart cities. By 2025, edge computing will become critical for organizations looking to stay competitive in a data-driven world.
6. Blockchain Beyond Crypto: Transforming Industries
While blockchain technology is most commonly associated with cryptocurrencies, its potential stretches far beyond digital coins. By 2025, blockchain will become a mainstream technology in industries like supply chain management, healthcare, and voting systems, thanks to its ability to ensure secure, transparent, and immutable transactions. This technology promises to enhance trust, reduce fraud, and streamline business processes across various sectors.
7. Autonomous Vehicles: Changing the Future of Transportation
Self-driving cars are one step closer to becoming a common sight on roads, and by 2025, autonomous vehicles will be integral to the transportation ecosystem. From ride-sharing to freight delivery, autonomous vehicles will reduce traffic congestion, lower emissions, and improve safety. As AI and sensor technologies continue to improve, autonomous vehicles will transform not just how we travel, but how we think about transportation.
8. AI-Driven Cybersecurity: Protecting the Digital World
As cyberattacks grow in sophistication, AI-driven cybersecurity solutions are becoming more essential. In 2025, AI will play a pivotal role in defending against complex threats by enabling systems to detect anomalies, predict attacks, and respond in real time. By leveraging machine learning algorithms, businesses will be able to proactively secure their networks, protecting sensitive data and ensuring the safety of users and customers.
9. Wearable Technology: Advancements in Health Monitoring
Wearable technology is rapidly evolving, with devices that not only track physical activity but also monitor key health metrics like heart rate, blood sugar, and sleep patterns. By 2025, wearable devices will become even more advanced, using AI to provide personalized health insights and early detection of potential health issues. This technology will play a significant role in preventive healthcare, enabling individuals to take charge of their well-being like never before.
10. Sustainable Technologies: Paving the Way for a Green Future
As the world grapples with climate change, sustainable technologies are becoming critical in reducing carbon emissions and conserving natural resources. By 2025, innovations in renewable energy, energy-efficient devices, and sustainable manufacturing practices will drive industries toward a greener future. Solar power, wind energy, and electric vehicles will play a major role in reducing the environmental impact, contributing to a more sustainable world.
The year 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal moment in the world of technology. From generative AI transforming creativity and business productivity to advancements in blockchain, autonomous vehicles, and AI-driven cybersecurity, the future promises to be dynamic and disruptive. As these technologies continue to evolve, businesses must stay ahead of the curve to remain competitive in an increasingly digital and interconnected world.
The landscape of agriculture is undergoing a revolutionary change as robotics and automation take center stage in the farming industry. With advancements in seeding, transplanting, harvesting, weeding, and pest control, agricultural robots are poised to play an instrumental role in ecosystem management, boosting efficiency, and increasing productivity and profitability for farmers worldwide.
The Rise of Robotics in Agriculture
Robotics in agriculture is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s a present-day reality. Agricultural robots are ushering in the era of robotic farming, where technological innovations are making farms smarter, more sustainable, and more productive. These robots, equipped with artificial intelligence (AI), are designed to tackle the many challenges faced by modern-day farming, from labor shortages to the rising cost of traditional farming practices.
At events like FIRA USA, the growth and adoption of robotics in farming are evident, with thousands of industry professionals, including farmers, attending to explore the latest technologies. These cutting-edge innovations are reshaping the way we think about farming and how crops are grown, tended to, and harvested.
Automation: A Game Changer for Farming Tasks
The impact of automation in farming is particularly visible in labor-intensive tasks. Tasks such as seeding, transplanting, harvesting, weeding, and pest control have traditionally relied on large numbers of workers, which has led to increased costs and inefficiencies. However, with the introduction of robotic technologies, these tasks are being automated, reducing the need for manual labor and increasing the speed and accuracy of operations.
For example, autonomous robots can now handle weeding by using AI-controlled systems to target and eliminate weeds without harming the surrounding crops. Similarly, harvesting robots equipped with delicate sensors are able to pick fruits and vegetables with precision, minimizing waste and preventing damage to the crops. These technologies are not only more efficient but also more sustainable, as they reduce the need for harmful herbicides and pesticides.
Increasing Productivity and Profitability with Robotics
The integration of robots into farming operations is making a significant impact on productivity and profitability. By automating tasks that once required a large labor force, farmers can now optimize their resources and reduce costs. This allows them to focus on other aspects of their operations while the robots handle the repetitive and time-consuming tasks.
Moreover, the use of robotics in agriculture is helping farmers address some of the most pressing challenges, such as weed resistance and pest control. Robots that use lasers, AI-powered sprayers or mechanical tools for weed control help minimize the need for herbicides, which are not only costly but also contribute to environmental degradation. Similarly, robots designed for pest control can target pests more accurately and in a more environmentally friendly manner.
As the farming industry continues to embrace robotics and automation, the result is a more profitable, efficient, and environmentally sustainable approach to food production. Agricultural robots are not only increasing yields but also reducing the carbon footprint of farming operations.
The Future of Robotic Farming
Looking ahead, robotics in agriculture will continue to evolve and expand, driven by the increasing demand for food and the need for sustainable farming practices. The potential of robotics and artificial intelligence in farming is vast, with new innovations emerging regularly to meet the ever-changing needs of the industry.
From autonomous tractors to robotic harvesters, the possibilities for the future of farming are endless. As we move toward more sustainable and efficient farming practices, it’s clear that robotics will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of food production, ensuring that farmers can meet the challenges of a growing global population while maintaining the health of the planet.
As agricultural robots become more advanced and integrated into everyday farming, they will continue to increase productivity, reduce costs, and help farmers navigate the complexities of modern-day farming. The era of robotic farming is here, and it promises a future of farming that is smarter, more efficient, and more sustainable than ever before.
Entrepreneurs
Nvidia Set to Replace Intel in the Dow Jones Industrial Average: A New Era in Semiconductors
In a groundbreaking shift within the Dow Jones Industrial Average, Nvidia is set to replace Intel, marking a significant transformation in the semiconductor industry. This transition reflects the soaring prominence of artificial intelligence (AI) and the evolving landscape of technology.
Nvidia’s Meteoric Rise
Nvidia has enjoyed a remarkable year, with its shares skyrocketing more than 170% in 2024, building on a staggering 240% increase the previous year. As a result, the company’s market capitalization has ballooned to $3.3 trillion, positioning it as the second-largest publicly traded company, just behind Apple. The rapid ascent is fueled by surging demand for Nvidia’s graphics processing units (GPUs), especially among tech giants like Microsoft, Meta, Google, and Amazon, which are purchasing Nvidia’s H100 GPUs in vast quantities to bolster their AI capabilities.
With revenue more than doubling over the past five quarters—tripling in three of those periods—Nvidia has become a focal point in the tech sector. The company recently indicated that demand for its next-generation AI GPU, known as Blackwell, is “insane,” further highlighting its pivotal role in the AI revolution.
Intel’s Decline
In stark contrast, Intel has faced a challenging year, with shares plummeting over 50% as the company struggles to maintain its once-unassailable market position in the face of mounting competition from Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) and others. Long recognized as a leader in PC chip manufacturing, Intel has fallen behind in the AI race, failing to make substantial advancements in this burgeoning sector.
Recent filings from Intel revealed plans for significant restructuring, including a reduction of its workforce by 16,500 employees and a contraction of its real estate footprint. These measures, initially announced in August, underscore the company’s ongoing battle with manufacturing challenges and its struggle to regain competitiveness.
A Strategic Shift in the Dow Jones Industrial Average
The switch, set to take effect on November 8, is not only a pivotal moment for Nvidia and Intel but also highlights broader trends within the Dow Jones Industrial Average, which comprises 30 components weighted by the share price of individual stocks. With Nvidia’s entry, four of the six trillion-dollar tech companies—Nvidia, Apple, Microsoft, and Amazon—will now be represented in the index, with Alphabet and Meta remaining outside its ranks.
The decision to include Nvidia follows its strategic move earlier this year to execute a 10-for-1 stock split. While this maneuver did not affect its overall market capitalization, it effectively lowered the price of each share, facilitating the company’s inclusion in the Dow Jones Industrial Average without overly skewing the index.
This change is particularly noteworthy as it represents the first adjustment to the index since February, when Amazon replaced Walgreens Boots Alliance. Over the years, the Dow Jones Industrial Average has sought to enhance its representation of the largest and most influential technology companies, adapting to a rapidly evolving market landscape.
As Nvidia replaces Intel in the Dow Jones Industrial Average, it signals a transformative moment in the semiconductor industry. The rise of AI has not only reshaped the fortunes of these two companies but also indicates a broader shift in the technological landscape, with Nvidia poised to lead the charge into the future. This transition not only reflects the dynamics of competition in the tech sector but also serves as a bellwether for the ongoing evolution of industries driven by innovation and technological advancement.
Apple’s measured approach to AI integration prioritizes privacy while delivering innovative features through Apple Intelligence and enhanced Siri capabilities. Craig Federighi explains the company’s strategic delays and future vision.
Key Takeaways
- Apple Intelligence represents a privacy-focused approach to AI implementation
- Craig Federighi details the strategic reasons behind Apple’s measured AI rollout
- Enhanced Siri features showcase Apple’s commitment to innovative user experiences
- Privacy-first AI processing happens primarily on-device
Apple’s Measured Approach to AI Innovation
In an era where artificial intelligence dominates tech headlines, Apple’s measured approach to AI integration stands out. The tech giant’s careful development of Apple Intelligence and enhanced Siri capabilities demonstrates a commitment to both innovation and user privacy that distinguishes it from competitors racing to market.
Apple Intelligence: Privacy Meets Innovation
Apple Intelligence represents a fundamental shift in how AI technology integrates with daily user experiences. Unlike other tech giants’ cloud-dependent solutions, Apple’s strategy focuses on on-device processing, maintaining their steadfast commitment to user privacy while delivering innovative features.
“Apple’s approach to AI innovation isn’t about being first—it’s about being right,” explains Sarah Chen, a prominent tech analyst. “They’re creating an ecosystem where Apple Intelligence enhances user experiences without compromising privacy.”
Craig Federighi on Apple’s Strategic AI Delays
Apple’s Senior Vice President of Software Engineering, Craig Federighi, recently addressed the company’s measured pace in AI deployment. “Our priority is delivering features that genuinely enhance user experiences while maintaining the privacy standards our customers expect,” Federighi emphasized during a recent technology summit.
The deliberate timeline for Apple Intelligence rollout reflects three key priorities:
- Ensuring robust privacy protections
- Optimizing on-device processing capabilities
- Maintaining high accuracy and reliability standards
Siri’s Future: A Privacy-First AI Assistant
The evolution of Siri represents a crucial component of Apple’s AI strategy. The virtual assistant is receiving significant upgrades designed to:
- Improve contextual understanding
- Enhance natural language processing
- Strengthen privacy protections
- Deliver faster response times through on-device processing
Privacy-Focused AI Tools
Apple’s commitment to privacy-first AI innovation extends to new features like:
- On-device photo editing with AI-powered Cleanup
- Enhanced security measures for personal data
- Local processing for machine learning tasks
- Private AI computations that protect user information
The Future of Apple Intelligence
As Apple continues developing its AI capabilities, the focus remains on:
- Expanding Siri’s capabilities while maintaining privacy
- Introducing new Apple Intelligence features gradually
- Strengthening on-device processing capabilities
- Innovating within Apple’s privacy framework
Expert Insights on Apple’s AI Strategy
“What distinguishes Apple’s approach to AI is their unwavering commitment to privacy,” notes Dr. Marcus Rodriguez, an AI privacy expert. “By processing AI tasks locally on devices, Apple creates a secure ecosystem that protects user data while delivering advanced capabilities.”
Looking Forward: Apple’s Privacy-First AI Vision
Apple’s roadmap suggests a future where AI technology becomes increasingly personalized while remaining trustworthy. The company’s staged rollout of features indicates a long-term vision that prioritizes:
- Privacy protection
- Innovation in AI technology
- Enhanced user experiences
- Responsible AI development
Setting New Standards for AI Privacy
As the tech industry races to embrace AI, Apple’s measured approach demonstrates that innovation and privacy can coexist. Through Apple Intelligence and enhanced Siri capabilities, the company is setting new standards for how AI can enhance user experiences while protecting personal data.
As we step into 2025, the landscape of data continues to evolve, driven by innovative technologies and changing regulations. Understanding these trends is crucial for businesses and professionals looking to stay ahead. Here’s a look at the top 10 data trends that are set to transform decision-making and data management across industries.
1. Automated Insights
With the advent of generative AI, data science is becoming more accessible than ever. Automated insights allow even non-experts to extract meaningful conclusions from data sets, democratizing data analysis and enhancing decision-making processes. This trend will empower organizations to make data-driven decisions quickly and effectively.
2. Synthetic Data
As privacy concerns grow, synthetic data emerges as a vital tool for training AI models without exposing sensitive information. By generating machine-made data that mimics real data, organizations can ensure high-quality datasets while minimizing privacy risks. This approach not only safeguards personal information but also accelerates the development of robust AI systems.
3. Confidential Computing
Advancements in confidential computing are set to revolutionize data analysis. With technologies like homomorphic encryption, businesses can perform calculations and gain insights without ever exposing the underlying data. This trend balances the need for privacy with the demand for actionable intelligence, making it a crucial development in data management.
4. Real-time Data
The importance of real-time data cannot be overstated. Companies are prioritizing instant data collection and analytics to enhance decision-making speed and responsiveness to market dynamics. In 2025, organizations that harness real-time data will enjoy a significant competitive advantage, enabling them to adapt swiftly to changing conditions.
5. Data Sovereignty
As awareness of data rights grows, data sovereignty is becoming a critical topic. Individuals are increasingly concerned about who owns their personal data and how it’s managed. This trend will influence regulations and business practices, leading to a more transparent approach to data governance and usage.
6. Data as a Commodity
Organizations are starting to view data as a commodity, recognizing its inherent value. This shift will lead to the emergence of marketplaces for digital information, where businesses can trade data as a valuable asset. Understanding this trend will be essential for companies looking to leverage their data for profit and strategic advantage.
7. Data-Centric AI
In 2025, the focus of AI development will shift towards data-centric AI. This trend emphasizes improving the quality and diversity of training datasets, leading to more reliable and effective AI systems. By reducing bias and enhancing effectiveness, organizations can create AI solutions that are better tailored to their specific needs.
8. Enhanced Data Collaboration
As organizations recognize the importance of data sharing, enhanced data collaboration will become a key trend. Partnerships between companies and institutions will facilitate more robust data exchanges, leading to innovative solutions and improved decision-making. This collaborative approach will drive value creation and innovation across sectors.
9. AI-Powered Data Governance
With the rise of data-centric strategies, AI-powered data governance will be crucial. Organizations will leverage AI tools to automate compliance, data quality checks, and security measures, ensuring robust governance frameworks. This trend will help companies manage their data more efficiently while adhering to regulations.
10. Ethical AI Development
As discussions around the ethical implications of AI intensify, ethical AI development will emerge as a significant trend. Organizations will prioritize building transparent, fair, and accountable AI systems that respect user privacy and rights. This commitment to ethics will enhance public trust and ensure sustainable AI practices.
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