Welcome to this week’s tech review, where we explore the most notable developments in the tech industry. The spotlight this week is on Apple, which has announced a surprising change, you will be able to delete the app store soon, along with other key stories from across the tech landscape.
Apple is going to allow users to delete the app store in EU
Apple will soon allow iPhone and iPad users in the European Union to delete the App Store, along with other core apps like Messages and Safari, as part of its compliance with the EU’s Digital Markets Act. Deleting app store, which marks a significant shift in Apple’s control over app distribution and revenue, is expected to introduce more competition in the mobile ecosystem while raising potential privacy and security concerns. Additionally, Apple will offer EU users a broader choice of default browsers, potentially impacting its lucrative partnership with Google. However, developers using third-party app stores will face steep fees, making profitability challenging.
Rumors say, there will be a bronze iphone 16 on the way
Anticipation is growing as rumors circulate about a new bronze color option for the iPhone 16 Pro. According to 9to5Mac, tech reviewer Sonny Dickson shared an image on X, revealing iPhone 16 Pro dummy units in Natural, White, and Black Titanium, along with a striking new bronze hue. This subdued bronze is expected to replace the Blue Titanium of the iPhone 15 Pro lineup, reflecting Apple’s continued shift toward a sophisticated, metallic aesthetic as we approach the anticipated September launch.
Digital scent? Osmo’s AI
A startup called Osmo, co-founded by Alex Wiltschko, is working to digitize the sense of smell using AI. Wiltschko, who has a background in neuroscience and led a team at Google Research, aims to give computers the ability to detect and generate scents.
This technology could revolutionize industries by creating safer, more sustainable fragrances and even help detect diseases through scent. Osmo’s AI model, built from the ground up, analyzes molecular structures to predict and recreate odors, potentially leading to groundbreaking applications in both healthcare and consumer products.
AI music on top of the charts!
Germany has seen its first fully AI-generated song, “Verknallt In Einen Talahon,” debut at Number 48 on the charts.
The track, created by producer Butterbro, is a throwback to 1970s music but carries controversial undertones due to its reference to “talahon,” a term with problematic connotations. The song’s AI origins and divisive humor have sparked discomfort in Germany, raising questions about the future of AI in music and the blurred lines between human and machine creativity.
Optimus Gen 3 is being trained
Ever heard of Optimus humanoid robots? if not check our other article about it, Tesla’s Optimus Gen 2: The Future of Humanoid Robots. Tesla is ramping up efforts to develop its Optimus humanoid robots, aiming to automate tasks in its factories. The company is hiring “data collection operators” to train these AI-powered robots by simulating their movements using motion-capture suits and VR headsets, with pay ranging from $25.25 to $48 per hour.
While Optimus has faced skepticism and delays, recent progress includes the robot autonomously handling tasks at Tesla facilities. Elon Musk remains optimistic, envisioning the robots as key to Tesla’s future, though experts warn that scaling production remains a significant challenge amid growing competition in the robotics field.
Meta Cancels High-End Mixed Reality Headset
Meta has decided to cancel the development of its high-end mixed reality headset, codenamed La Jolla, which was intended to compete with Apple’s Vision Pro and was originally planned for release in 2027.
The project was dropped due to the high cost of the MicroOLED displays needed for the device, making it difficult to keep the price under $1,000. This decision suggests that Meta may be rethinking its approach to expensive VR products, especially after the lukewarm response to both the $3,500 Vision Pro and Meta’s own Quest Pro.
However, Meta still plans to release more affordable mixed reality devices, including a new Quest headset, codenamed Ventura, and AR glasses expected to be announced soon.
Microsoft Retires Windows Control Panel
Did you know the Microsoft is gradually replacing the traditional Control Panel in Windows with the Settings app. Over time, various Control Panel functionalities have been integrated into the Settings app, indicating Microsoft’s push to phase out the Control Panel entirely.
This transition has been ongoing since Windows 8, with each update moving more features to Settings, streamlining user experience and modernizing Windows’ interface.
Final Thoughts
As we wrap up this week’s tech highlights, Apple’s decision to delete the app store is just one of many shifts we’re seeing in the industry. From advances in AI to the latest in mixed reality, the tech world continues to evolve at a rapid pace, bringing both opportunities and challenges. Stay tuned for more updates as we keep an eye on the innovations shaping our digital future.
