Trending Tech News: AI Agents, Meta Quest, and OpenAI

Nov 25

Emerging Tech Roundup — November 22

The Quantious team’s top picks for timely trending news in the tech world.

This week in tech: Microsoft’s new AI agents support 1,800 models, Google Lens can now check prices and inventory when shopping in the real world, Windows comes to the Meta Quest, Instagram lets users reset feed recommendations, Alexa may get smarter with more APIs rather than more AI, Lyft is bringing rider verification to the entire nation, and OpenAI will pay DotDash Meredith at least $16 million per year to license its content.

Microsoft’s New AI Agents Support 1,800 Models (and Counting)

(Venture Beat, November 19)

Microsoft has unveiled new tools for building and deploying custom or prebuilt autonomous agents, now hosting over 1,800 models. These capabilities, including templates for scenarios like sales and project management, allow enterprises to securely integrate proprietary data, test various AI models, and scale operations with Copilot Studio. Additionally, Microsoft introduced ready-made agents for tasks like HR queries, real-time meeting translations, and project management.

Google Lens Can Now Check Prices and Inventory When Shopping in the Real World

(Tech Crunch, November 19)

Google is enhancing Google Lens to assist with in-store shopping by providing product insights, price comparisons, and local inventory details, leveraging its Shopping Graph and AI Gemini models. Users can snap pictures of items to access reviews and check stock or prices across retailers like Target and Walmart. These updates, alongside new Google Maps shopping features and expanded Google Pay capabilities, aim to streamline holiday shopping both online and in physical stores.

Windows Comes to the Meta Quest

(Tech Crunch, November 19)

Microsoft announced that Windows 11's full capabilities will be available on the Meta Quest 3 and Quest 3S in December via a public preview. This integration supports both local and cloud-based Windows experiences, with features like Volumetric Apps enabling 3D interactions, such as manipulating virtual objects in space. Building on prior collaborations with Meta, Microsoft is expanding Quest compatibility beyond productivity tools like Microsoft 365 and Xbox Cloud Gaming to include developer tools for creating immersive 3D desktop applications.

Instagram Will Let Users Start Their Recommendations Over From Scratch

(CNET, November 19)

Instagram has introduced a new feature allowing users to reset the algorithm in their content preferences, wiping past interactions to re-personalize recommendations. This update, alongside enhanced protections for teens, aims to reduce exposure to inappropriate content by offering tools like account reviews and AI-powered age detection. These changes align with broader industry efforts, including platforms like Roblox and Fortnite implementing teen safeguards and governments such as Australia enacting stricter social media regulations for minors.

Alexa May Get Smarter With More APIs Rather Than More AI

(The Verge, November 19)

Amazon is enhancing Alexa by partnering with companies like Uber, OpenTable, GrubHub, and Instacart to make it a smarter assistant capable of completing entire tasks, such as ordering food or booking events – without defaulting to third-party Skills. Unlike generative AI models, Amazon is focusing on seamless API integration to create a more reliable and conversational user experience. While the final partnerships and features are still in development, Amazon plans to roll out these improvements with around 200 partners by Q3 next year.

Lyft is Bringing Rider Verification to the Entire Nation

(Engadget, November 19)

Lyft is rolling out its driver verification program nationwide, mirroring Uber's system, which cross-references rider identities through databases or government ID uploads to enhance driver safety. Additional updates include alerts for areas like bus lanes, schools, and traffic enforcement zones, as well as piloting a restroom finder for drivers. Lyft is looking to improve driver confidence by introducing real-time road alerts to indicate accidents, heavy traffic, or closures, similar to Uber and Waze features.

OpenAI Will Pay DotDash Meredith at Least $16 Million Per Year to License its Content

(Engadget, November 19)

OpenAI is paying Dotdash Meredith at least $16 million annually to license its content for ChatGPT training, as revealed in IAC's recent financial disclosures. In addition to licensing, Dotdash Meredith will integrate OpenAI’s models into its ad-targeting tools, while ChatGPT will credit the publisher's brands like Food & Wine, InStyle, and Investopedia when displaying their content. This partnership benefits both parties by enhancing AI training and supporting in-house advertising efforts for Dotdash Meredith.