Welcome back to another exciting Week in Review! This week has been filled with groundbreaking news, from major shakeups to innovative new technologies. So, let’s dive right in and explore all the latest updates from the tech world.
First off, we have some big news from X as CEO Linda Yaccarino has stepped down after a tumultuous two-year tenure. Her leadership saw improvements in the company’s ad business, but challenges lie ahead as X navigates through advertiser backlash, AI troubles, and Elon Musk controversies.
In the world of Apple, the tech giant is making adjustments to its new Liquid Glass design in iOS 26 beta 3. Users have raised concerns about readability, prompting Apple to dial back transparency in areas like Notifications and Apple Music. This fine-tuning aims to strike the right balance before the OS officially launches this fall.
On a lighter note, Hugging Face has introduced its new desktop robot, Reachy Mini, targeted at AI developers. These build-it-yourself bots, starting at $299, are fully programmable in Python and seamlessly integrated with the Hugging Face Hub.
Moving on to some exciting new releases, Nothing has unveiled its most ambitious Phone (3) yet. Priced at $799, this phone boasts a quirky second screen, AI features, and flagship specs to rival industry giants like Samsung and Apple. Meanwhile, Samsung has also launched new foldable phones, including the Z Fold7, Z Flip7, and the more affordable Z Flip7 FE.
In the automotive sector, Rivian has introduced its quad-motor R1T and R1S EVs, featuring impressive horsepower and cutting-edge software enhancements. With a price tag of $115,000+, Rivian is banking on these flagship models to pave the way until its more affordable R2s hit the market in 2026.
In the realm of AI, Elon Musk’s xAI has unveiled the Grok 4, touted as a “maximally truth-seeking AI.” However, concerns have been raised about the chatbot’s reliance on Musk’s own opinions and posts, casting doubt on its objectivity and readiness for broader deployment.
Apple’s head of AI models, Ruoming Pang, has made a surprising move to Meta, bolstering Zuckerberg’s AI unit. This shift highlights ongoing challenges in Apple’s AI endeavors and adds valuable expertise to Meta’s AI team.
On the innovation front, Jack Dorsey has developed Bitchat, a Bluetooth-based messaging app that operates through mesh networks, enabling users to chat without Wi-Fi or cell service. While the app is in closed beta, questions about its security features are already under scrutiny by researchers.
Additionally, Intel’s RealSense technology is spinning off as an independent company with $50 million in funding. The company aims to scale its 3D imaging tech for robotics and drones, enhancing human-robot interaction as AI-driven demand continues to grow.
Lastly, Slate Auto, a Michigan-based EV startup backed by Jeff Bezos, has unveiled plans for an ultra-affordable electric pickup truck. After three years of stealth development, the company is set to disrupt the market with customizable options and production slated for late 2026.
And that wraps up this week’s tech highlights! Stay tuned for more exciting updates in the world of technology.
