This week, the tech industry witnessed the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee continue discussion of the NO FAKES Act, with FKA Twigs taking the stand to testify regarding the benefits of regulated artificial intelligence, revealing she created her own deepfake she's dubbed "AI Twigs."
On the product front, Beats expanded its audio range, lifting the curtain on two new models, along with seasoned collaborators Meta and Ray-Ban joining forces with Scuderia Ferrari ahead of the Miami 2024 race. Elsewhere, Instagram revealed its new Reels algorithm.
Below, Hypebeast has rounded up the top tech stories of the week so you can stay up to date on trends in the industry.
Instagram Overhauls Reels Algorithm to Prioritize ‘Original Content’
Instagram is officially overhauling its algorithm to for Reels content.
The platform will prioritize “original content" – per Adam Mosseri, who took to his Instagram account to relay the news.
When the algorithm finds a reposted piece of content in the “Recommended” reels category, it will automatically replace it with the original video.
Expected to roll out in the coming months, the move arrives as the latest in Instagram’s attempt to remove aggregators from recommendations.
FKA Twigs Developed Her Own Deepfake
As the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee continues discussion of the NO FAKES – Nurture Originals, Foster Art and Keep Entertainment Safe – Act, FKA Twigs joined Warner Music Group CEO Robert Kyncl to testify to Congress.
Twigs revealed she’s developed her own deepfake – dubbed “AI Twigs” – whom she’s trained to emulate her personality and voice and will focus on handling her fan affairs.
“I will be engaging my AI twigs later this year to extend my reach and handle my online social media interactions, whilst I continue to focus on my art from the comfort and solace of my studio. These and similar emerging technologies are highly valuable tools both artistically and commercially when under the control of the artist.”
“Our careers and livelihoods are in jeopardy, and so potentially are the wider image-related rights of others in society,” she continues in the letter, pointing to AI – when regulated – as a critical tool in artistic creation.
Beats Expands Its Audio Line With Solo Buds and Solo 4 Headphones
Beats has revealed two new auditory offerings: the Beats Solo Buds and Beats Solo 4.
The Beats Solo Buds take the form of earbuds with the Solo 4 arriving as wireless over-ear headphones. Both arrive in neutral and pastel colorways.
The earbuds are equipped with instant pairing technology and renewed USB-C charging ports. As for the Solo 4 headphones, the sleek design taps Spatial Audio technology and UltraPlush ear cushions.
Shop the Solo Buds now – with the Solo 4s expected to drop in June.
Meta and Ray-Ban Release Limited Edition Ferrari Smart Glasses
Meta and Ray-Ban are continuing to expand their partnership, dropping off the limited edition smart glasses in collaboration with Scuderia Ferrari.
The glasses – which surface in the Scuderia Ferrari hues – are crafted with video calling and Meta AI with Vision. With that, it’s able to interpret what the wearer is seeing and assist in any tasks, such as captioning a photo or translating a sign.
Cop a pair now for $299 USD at both Ray-Ban and Meta’s webstores.
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