Hello and welcome to Howtouselinux Weekly Newsletter!
Here’s a quick look at what’s happening this week in the world of tech and beyond. Let’s dive in!
📱 Big Tech & Startups:
ChatGPT’s Mobile App Takes Off:
ChatGPT’s mobile application experienced its most successful month yet following the release of GPT-4o. The app raked in a net revenue of $28 million through the App Store and Google Play in July, nearly hitting $40 million before in-app purchase fees.
This surge is attributed to an influx of an estimated 2 million new paying customers, signaling that the app’s growth trajectory is on an upward climb.
The app’s success has been remarkable, especially considering the competitive landscape of AI-driven tools. Users are drawn to its advanced features, which provide a more personalized and interactive experience compared to traditional search engines and AI assistants.
Reddit’s Financial Strategies Unveiled:
Reddit, a platform known for its diverse communities and discussions, is exploring new ways to monetize its user base and content.
The company, which has never reported a profitable quarter, reported a reduced loss of $10.1 million in Q2 2024 compared to the previous year’s loss of $41.1 million.
In a bid to increase revenue, Reddit is considering the introduction of search ads and paywalled content. This move comes as the company has restricted the ability of search engines, except for Google, OpenAI, and select education/research entities, from indexing its fresh content.
The strategy aims to leverage Reddit’s role as a search filter and content discovery platform, potentially offering a unique advertising and premium content experience.
🚀 Science & Futuristic Technology:
Boeing Starliner’s Uncertain Odyssey:
NASA’s recent announcement regarding the Boeing Starliner has stirred concerns in the space community. After successfully launching two astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS) in June, the Starliner has encountered unforeseen complications that could affect its return mission.
NASA officials, who initially played down the severity of these issues, have now acknowledged that the problems might be more critical than first thought, leading to the consideration of alternative measures.
The astronauts, who had planned for an eight-day stay at the ISS, may now see their mission extended, potentially pushing their return into the next year.
In an unexpected twist, NASA is exploring the possibility of utilizing SpaceX as a backup option for bringing the astronauts home safely. This decision reflects the growing trust in SpaceX’s capabilities and the need for a reliable contingency plan.
The situation underscores the inherent risks and uncertainties in space travel and the importance of having robust backup plans. It also highlights the ongoing competition and collaboration between Boeing and SpaceX in the realm of commercial spaceflight.
⚡ Quick Links:
Intel’s OpenAI Opportunity:
Intel considered investing in OpenAI back in 2017 but passed on the chance. Discussions about investment options were halted as Intel’s CEO didn’t foresee AI models hitting the broad market soon. This decision is now under scrutiny as OpenAI’s success continues to grow.
OpenAI’s Brain Drain:
Major shifts within OpenAI have led to skepticism about the company’s timeline for achieving artificial general intelligence (AGI). Key figures have left the company, raising questions about the future of its ambitious projects and the feasibility of its goals.
YouTube’s Community Notes Feature:
YouTube is testing a new feature that resembles Twitter’s Community Notes, allowing users to contribute information related to video content. Approved notes, which can include timestamps, will appear directly underneath videos, enhancing viewer engagement and content understanding.
Google’s Monopolistic Position:
Google’s status as a monopolist is peculiar; it operates like a monopoly without causing direct harm to consumers. This paradox could present challenges if the company’s monopoly status is appealed in court.
Turing: The AI ‘Human Data’ Provider:
Turing, a staffing firm, has played a pivotal role in the AI industry by providing ‘human data’ for major AI companies, including OpenAI. Their work has been instrumental in the development of AI models like ChatGPT.
X’s Headquarters Closure:
X has officially ended its San Francisco headquarters, with plans to relocate workers to the South Bay. The company’s engineering staff will share an office in Palo Alto with xAI, while the rest of the team will be directed to existing offices in Santana Row. This move signifies a shift in the company’s operational strategy.