HeyWhatsNew: Technology Is Becoming More Inclusive of the Disabled, Including Apple’s Eye Tracking Feature and Microsoft’s New Proteus Controller
Hey, what’s new HeyUp family? Welcome to this week’s roundup of news headlines about technology that is changing our world. Here’s what went down in the week beginning 13/05/2024.
The First Neuralink Patient Says He’s Now Better at Video Games Than His Friends
The first patient with a successful Neuralink chip implant, who has since been identified as Noland Arbaugh, is making some serious strides in his first 100 days post-surgery. According to a report on 80 Level, Noland has been crushing it in games like Slay the Spire and Old School RuneScape using his brain-computer interface (BCI). And what’s more, he’s broken the record for BCI cursor control, hitting 8.0 bits-per-second.
Despite a minor setback that occurred when a few microscopic electrode threads retracted, as reported by Business Today Arbaugh kept on using the BCI effectively, putting in about 34 hours a week of gaming.
OpenAI Co-Founder and Chief Scientist Leaves the Company
Ilya Sutskever, co-founder and chief scientist of OpenAI, is stepping away from the AI powerhouse. His departure marks a significant change for the company, as CEO Sam Altman acknowledged Sutskever's immense contribution to OpenAI's success.
Sutskever's departure coincides with Jakub Pachocki stepping into the role of chief scientist. Pachocki, who previously led the development of GPT-4 and OpenAI Five, brings his expertise to the company's leadership team. OpenAI, known for its ChatGPT chatbot, has been a major player in the generative AI field, attracting attention from tech giants like Microsoft.
Microsoft Releases the Proteus Controller for Gamers with Disabilities
This week, Microsoft unveiled the Proteus Controller which was co-developed by ByoWave under the Designed for Xbox program. Priced at $299, this new controller is designed to empower Xbox gamers with disabilities.
The Verge reports that the modular wireless controller features customizable faceplates, including buttons, directional pads, and analog sticks. Gamers with disabilities can create over 100 configurations and LED lighting options, catering to individual needs and preferences. The controller's remappable buttons also offer further personalization through the supporting app.
Android Announces Theft Detection Lock and More Security Updates
As phone theft continues to rise, manufacturers are increasingly integrating safety measures into their software. Google revealed at its I/O developer conference that billions of Android phones will soon receive enhanced security features to combat phone theft and protect user data.
These upgrades, some available with Android 15 and others compatible with older devices, include AI-powered automatic locking for when a phone is snatched, as well as additional protections for stolen phones. An article on Wired explains that alongside the anti-theft tools, Google is introducing real-time scanning in Android 15 to monitor app permissions for suspicious activity, further bolstering user security.
Google I/O 2024: Announcements and What to Expect
At Google I/O 2024 which took place in Mountain View, California this week, Google's leadership team announced a few new AI-powered features and updates, as well as details about upcoming versions of Android and Wear OS.
This year's event was focused mainly on software and AI advancements like Google Gemini and Android updates, with no hardware announcements as expected. Tom's Guide reporters attended the event in person to provide firsthand coverage.
Apple Says Its Products Will Soon Be Controlled by Eye Movements
Apple has announced new accessibility features coming later this year for iPhone and iPad users. One standout feature is Eye Tracking, which allows users to interact with iOS and iPadOS using their eyes, similar to a system available on Mac computers.
Digital Trends reports that the Eye Tracking feature builds on the existing Dwell Control system, which lets users control the mouse using eye and head movements on Macs. On iPhone and iPad, Eye Tracking will be quick to set up and will use the front camera. Once activated, users with physical disabilities can perform swipe and button actions using their eye movements.
The Tesla Autopilot Fraud Case Will Appear in Court
Federal Judge Rita Lin has ruled that the lawsuit against Tesla, accusing the company of misleading consumers about the capabilities of its driver assist features, can go forward. While she had previously dismissed other claims seeking monetary damages and injunctive relief, she did allow the fraud allegation against Tesla to stand. Lin has stated that if Tesla implied its hardware could achieve high or full automation, it could be considered misleading based on the complaint.
Bloomberg previously reported that Tesla Inc. was facing a potential class-action lawsuit accusing it of misleading consumers about the self-driving capabilities of its cars. This is seen as a setback for the company, especially since CEO Elon Musk has been emphasizing autonomy as crucial for Tesla's future.
That concludes this week’s tech news roundup. Join us again next time for your weekly dose of tech news headlines.
