November’s 2023 Tech Updates

As winter comes on, the holidays are getting closer. Following tradition, we provide you with a monthly summary of noteworthy events. In this column, we will cover a variety of topics from the potential release of Windows 12 to advancements in quantum computing and speech recognition.

Key takeaways:

• Windows 12 is rumored to be released in 2024 and may include features like merging Skype and Teams into MSN Messenger 12, a more customizable taskbar, and better tablet support.
• Google Calendar will drop support for devices running Android 7 or older starting in 2023.
• Stability AI has unveiled Stable Video Diffusion, a new text-to-video AI that can create short-form videos.
• Google is going to start eliminating inactive accounts.
• Adobe has added support for raw images taken by the Google Pixel 8 series.
• Amazon’s $1.7 billion acquisition of iRobot is facing objections from European Union regulators.
• AWS is making significant strides in quantum computing and speech recognition.

Continue reading for other updates in the field of technology.

Windows 12 Future Features

Windows 12 is the highly anticipated successor to Windows 11, poised for release in 2024. The system requirements for Windows 12 are projected to mirror those of its predecessor, Windows 11, encompassing a 64-bit processor, a clock speed of 1GHz, 4GB of RAM, a 64GB drive, UEFI, Secure Boot capability, TPM 2.0, a display larger than 9 inches with HD Resolution (1366×768), DirectX 12 compatible graphics/WDDM 2.x, and an internet connection.

While the full scope of Windows 12 and its potential implementation remains uncertain, a clear vision of its desired characteristics is already in place. Notable improvements include the integration of Skype and Teams into MSN Messenger 12, an enhanced taskbar boasting increased customization options, improved tablet compatibility, and a more cohesive look. Microsoft has also revamped its app store, streamlining the process of discovering and installing applications. The anticipation surrounding the unveiling of Windows 12 is palpable, with expectations running high for substantial enhancements compared to its predecessor, Windows 11.

Google Calendar Dropping Older Android Support

Google Calendar is dropping support for devices running Android 7 or older. This means that if you have a phone or tablet running Android 7, you will no longer be able to use the Google Calendar app. Google Calendar will still be available via a mobile web browser on these devices, but it will not be as functional as the app.

If you are still using a device running Android 7, you should consider updating to Android 8 or newer. This will give you access to the latest security features and will allow you to continue using the Google Calendar app.

Stability AI Unveils Stable Video Diffusion, a New Text-to-Video AI

With the use of a text prompt, Stability AI has created a new generative AI called Stable Video Diffusion that can produce short videos. The AI can produce videos with a resolution of 576 x 1,024 pixels and a frame rate that can be adjusted to run between three and thirty frames per second. The selection of one of the twin models determines the duration of the movies.

The substance of a video that the firm uploaded to its YouTube account demonstrates the capabilities of Stable Video Diffusion and it’s shockingly good. The AI is not yet ready for a general release; it is still in the early phases of development. Stability AI notes that Stable Video Diffusion is not yet designed for commercial or real-world applications. At the moment, it is solely for studying purposes.

The Text-To-Video interface in the preview will be available, however, it’s unclear when public access will be possible. You may learn all the specifics of the project by reading the AI’s white paper in the meantime.

Google is Going to Start Eliminating Inactive Accounts

Google will begin the deletion of inactive accounts on December 1st. To avoid account deletion, it is necessary for you to log in prior to that time. Mere authentication into your Google account should be enough to maintain its activity for an additional duration of two years. To safeguard the preservation of your saved material, you have the option to log in to Google Photos only.

YouTube accounts that have videos will not be removed, and accounts that have active subscriptions linked to them will also not be terminated. Google is revising its regulations for security purposes since outdated and inactive accounts are at a higher risk of being hacked.

Adobe Expands RAW Image Editing Capabilities for Google Pixel 8

Adobe has added support for raw images taken by the Google Pixel 8 series. This means that you can now edit raw images from your Pixel 8 in Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, and After Effects. This is a significant upgrade for Pixel 8 users, as it gives them access to more powerful editing tools. There are a couple of limitations to be aware of, however. First, users of Pixel 8 will not have access to Camera Matching profiles. According to Adobe, these profiles have the ability to replicate distinct color modifications made on a camera. At now, these applications only acknowledge sources originating from Apple ProRAW files captured with the iPhone 15 Pro.

Furthermore, it is necessary for the phone’s Camera Raw plug-in to be operating on version 16.0.1. To resolve this issue, it is recommended to update the most recent software patch on your Pixel device. Update any Adobe software you may have to make sure it can handle raw images, as advised by 9To5Google.

Amazon Bought iRobot for $1.7 Billion, Sparking Uproar

Amazon’s $1.7 billion acquisition of iRobot, the maker of Roomba, is facing objections from European Union regulators. The European Commission has expressed concerns that the deal may restrict competition in the robot vacuum cleaner market. The objections also suggest that Amazon could potentially hinder iRobot’s rivals by actions such as delisting their products or reducing visibility on the Amazon marketplace. This development is surprising, considering earlier reports had indicated the deal was set to receive unconditional approval.

Amazon could respond to the objections and request an oral hearing, with the final decision expected by February 14th, 2024. An Amazon spokesperson stated that they are working with the European Commission and believe the acquisition will benefit iRobot by providing resources for innovation and lowering prices for consumers.

AWS Makes Progress in Quantum Computing and Speech Recognition

Amazon Web Services is making significant strides in two key areas: quantum computing and speech recognition.

Quantum Computing:

AWS is experimenting with a new chip that can help solve key quantum computing problems. This chip could potentially pave the way for more usable quantum computing in the future.

Speech Recognition:

AWS has added new languages to its Amazon Transcribe product, and it is now powered by generative AI. This means that Amazon Transcribe can now recognize more spoken languages and provide more accurate transcriptions.

In addition to these two major announcements, AWS also announced new capabilities for its Amazon Personalization product. These new capabilities will allow customers to offer more personalized products and recommendations to their customers. AWS is making significant progress in a number of areas that are important to its customers. These advancements will help businesses to be more efficient, productive, and innovative.

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