OpenAI has introduced its new GPT-5.1 featuring enhanced warmth and a broader personality range intended to improve conversational flow. Meanwhile, Anthropic is making waves with a bold $50B investment to construct state-of-the-art AI data centers across the United States.
Meta sees a major shakeup as chief AI scientist Yann LeCun departs to form an independent startup focused on world models, detailed in the report on his exit. On the consumer front, Apple has launched its new Digital ID feature, allowing U.S. passport data storage on the iPhone, while rumors suggest the upcoming iPhone 18 Pro Max may sport a thicker, heftier design.
Further tech innovations include enhanced portability with the Framework Laptop 16 (2025) that melds modular design with desktop-grade gaming power. In autonomous technology, Waymo is expanding its freeway robotaxi services to major U.S. cities, a critical move to boost efficiency on highways.
Other noteworthy developments involve Einride planning a public debut via a SPAC valued at $1.8B, signaling strong investor confidence in its autonomous trucking technology. Additionally, the Swedish startup Spiich Labs has raised €600K to automate B2B administrative tasks, while Google is taking legal action against scam text operations, targeting cybercriminal groups behind phishing schemes.