OpenAI has introduced two new ways to access ChatGPT: a US-based 1-800 phone number offering 15 minutes of free monthly voice calls and a WhatsApp integration for international users.

The phone service utilizes a voice-based AI assistant, accessible even on older phones, prioritizing inclusivity.

The WhatsApp version, though featuring limitations and daily usage caps, provides text-based interactions. This expansion of access aims to make ChatGPT available to a broader audience beyond those comfortable with technology.

OpenAI is thus bridging the gap between AI and less tech-savvy individuals. These innovations highlight a creative approach to accessibility in AI.

Google's Gemini 2.0 launch dominates the AI news, showcasing advanced multimodal capabilities, agentic AI projects like Astra and Mariner, and a new research assistant.

Meanwhile, Apple significantly upgrades its Apple Intelligence with iOS 18.2, integrating ChatGPT for enhanced Siri functionality and adding features like AI-generated emojis and image creation.

Other developments include the Rabbit r1 AI companion device offering customizable AI agents and various new AI tools and platforms focusing on low-code development, agent building, and AI-powered assistance across different domains. The integration of ChatGPT into

Apple products and Google's advancements in agentic AI are highlighted as key developments shaping the future of AI interaction.

OpenAI has released Canvas, a collaborative writing and coding interface with enhanced features like Python integration and improved GPT-4 integration.

SambaNova offers AI inference processors significantly faster than GPUs, supporting open-source models like Llama 3.3.

Cognition Labs launched Devin, an AI developer assistant integrating with various platforms to automate tasks like bug fixes and code creation for engineering teams. Finally,

OpenAI's Sora generates realistic videos from text descriptions, offering a novel approach to video production.

What is Perplexity AI?

Perplexity AI is a search engine powered by artificial intelligence. It is designed to be an alternative to traditional search engines like Google, offering a more conversational and comprehensive search experience. Unlike traditional search engines that return a list of links, Perplexity AI provides a direct answer to your query, pulling information from multiple sources and summarizing them in a concise and easy-to-understand manner.

How is Perplexity AI different from traditional search engines?

Perplexity AI differs from traditional search engines in several ways:

• Direct answers: Instead of a list of links, Perplexity AI gives you a direct answer to your query, synthesized from various sources.
• Source citations: Each part of the answer is cited with the specific source it came from, making it easy to verify information and explore further.
• Interactive follow-ups: Perplexity AI allows you to ask follow-up questions to refine your search and delve deeper into specific aspects of the topic.
• Focus modes: You can narrow down your search by selecting a specific focus mode, like academic publications, YouTube, Reddit, or Wolfram Alpha, for more targeted results.

Microsoft recently launched Copilot Vision, an AI integrated into its Edge browser that interacts with users in real-time by "seeing" their screens.

The AI aims to be a true companion, understanding user emotions and adapting its responses accordingly, a key differentiator from competitors like OpenAI.

Privacy concerns are addressed through session-based data deletion, with plans for more robust infrastructure as the technology develops.

Future plans include expanding Copilot's capabilities to include memory, learning assistance, and even gaming integration, ultimately envisioning AI companions as deeply integrated into daily life.

Sam Altman announced OpenAI's "12 Days of OpenAI," featuring new product launches and insights into AGI and collaborations.

DeepMind showcased Genie 2, an AI that transforms images into playable 3D worlds, and GenCast, a superior AI weather forecasting model.

Other advancements include Recraft, an AI thumbnail creator, and new AI tools like Coval and Pollo AI.

Finally, the text highlights the burgeoning AI consulting market and its projected growth.

Recent advancements in artificial intelligence are highlighted, including Amazon's new Nova AI model family offering text, image, and video generation capabilities;

Tencent's open-source HunyuanVideo model excelling in video generation; new AI-powered tools for web application development and enhanced search functionalities; and innovative AI-driven platforms for streamlining AI agent creation and improved search results.

The overall focus is on the rapid progress and expanding applications of AI across various sectors. The text also mentions several new AI-related job opportunities.

This article guides freelancers on securing timely payments. It details various payment methods—including cash, checks, bank transfers, digital wallets, and credit cards—and emphasizes the importance of clear contracts and invoices.

The article also offers practical tips for freelancers, such as conducting client background checks, requiring advance payments, and maintaining consistent communication.

Ultimately, it stresses the need for strong payment practices to ensure financial stability and avoid disputes.

The author, a retail expert with experience in payments processing, provides actionable advice for successful freelancing.

This article from Fit Small Business reviews six top virtual assistant (VA) companies: FreeUp (best overall),

MyTasker (best budget option for administrative and bookkeeping tasks), Upwork (best for project-based work),

Time etc (best for highly qualified US-based VAs), Virtual Assist USA (best for specialized industries), and Remote CoWorker (best for startups).

The review assesses each company based on pricing, services offered, functionality, payment options, and ease of use, providing detailed comparisons and highlighting pros and cons.

The article also offers guidance on choosing a VA company, considering factors like required skills, industry needs, budget, and desired level of involvement in the selection process.

Finally, the methodology used for the evaluation and frequently asked questions are included.

The YouTube transcript from DW Documentary profiles several digital nomads, individuals who work remotely while traveling the world.

It highlights the advantages, such as freedom and adventure, and disadvantages, like instability and lack of security, of this lifestyle.

The video features interviews with nomads discussing their work, finances, and experiences, contrasting the glamorous aspects often portrayed online with the realities of this increasingly popular way of life.