New open source challenger takes on Google in the AI image race

The open source community has a powerful new tool for high precision image generation. GLM Image, a model from the startup Z.ai, demonstrates superior accuracy in rendering complex text compared to Google’s Nano Banana Pro. Carl Franzen reports for VentureBeat that this new model excels at creating information dense visuals such as infographics and technical …

Read more

OpenAI and Google update translation technology

OpenAI and Google have introduced new tools and models to advance artificial intelligence translation. OpenAI launched ChatGPT Translate, a standalone tool designed to compete with established services. It supports over 50 languages and uses a layout similar to existing translation platforms. Features of ChatGPT Translate A primary feature of ChatGPT Translate is its integration with …

Read more

Your emails and photos can now power Gemini responses

Google has launched a new feature called Personal Intelligence for its Gemini assistant. This tool allows the AI to connect with other Google services like Gmail, Photos, and YouTube. According to Google, this integration helps the assistant answer specific questions using a user’s own data. For example, Gemini can now retrieve a license plate number …

Read more

YouTube creators can soon generate AI clones of themselves for Shorts

Google has expanded its Veo 3.1 AI video generation platform with improvements to image-based video creation and native vertical video support. The company has updated its Ingredients to Video tool, which allows users to generate videos from up to three reference images. According to Google, the updated tool produces more consistent character appearances across different …

Read more

ChatGPT gets cheaper „Go“ plan worldwide and ads

OpenAI has made its budget subscription tier ChatGPT Go available worldwide and announced plans to introduce advertising to its chatbot platform. The move marks a significant shift in the company’s monetization strategy as it seeks to fund expansion while competing with Google and Anthropic. ChatGPT Go costs $8 per month in the United States and …

Read more

Claude Cowork lets AI organize your files and create documents while you step away

Anthropic has released Cowork, a new feature that extends Claude’s capabilities beyond coding to general knowledge work. The tool is available as a research preview for Claude Max subscribers on macOS. Cowork allows users to grant Claude access to specific folders on their computer. The AI assistant can then read, edit, and create files within …

Read more

Google launches Universal Commerce Protocol for AI-powered shopping

Google has introduced the Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP), an open standard designed to enable AI agents to handle various aspects of online shopping. The company developed the protocol in collaboration with Shopify, Etsy, Wayfair, Target, and Walmart. The protocol allows AI agents to manage different stages of the customer journey, from product discovery to post-purchase …

Read more

Gmail introduces free AI features for all users

Google is making several AI features in Gmail available to all personal users at no cost. According to Blake Barnes, VP Product for Gmail, the company is bringing the email service into what it calls the “Gemini era.” The newly free features include Help Me Write, which allows users to draft or polish emails using …

Read more

Microsoft launches AI shopping checkout through Copilot

Microsoft has introduced Copilot Checkout at the NRF 2026 retail conference, enabling users to complete purchases directly within the Copilot interface without visiting retailer websites. The feature is rolling out in the United States and integrates with PayPal, Shopify, Stripe and Etsy. Participating retailers include Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie and Ashley Furniture. According to Microsoft, the …

Read more