Tom's Guide reviews Manus, a new AI agent from Butterfly Effect that has quickly gained significant online interest. Unlike traditional chatbots relying on single large language models, Manus utilizes multiple AI models and a network of independent agents for a broader range of tasks. The reviewer compared Manus to ChatGPT across five different prompts, finding that Manus generally provided more thorough and detailed responses, demonstrating its capability for complex analysis and reasoning. However, the increased depth often resulted in longer response times and outputs that were less practical and user-friendly compared to ChatGPT's more concise approach. Ultimately, while impressed by Manus' capabilities, the reviewer found its extensive responses less suitable for regular use compared to other AI tools.

A new AI contender has entered the ring—Manus, China’s so-called first general AI agent, is making waves. But is it the real deal or just hype? Robert Loft and Haley Hanson dive into Manus’s strengths, its quirky limitations, and how it stacks up against ChatGPT and DeepSeek. From compiling research like a digital intern to struggling with paywalls and server crashes, we break down what this AI can really do. Is this the future of AI agents, or just another step in the evolution? Join us as we explore what makes Manus different, why it’s causing a stir, and whether you should be paying attention.

OpenAI showcased new features for their ChatGPT desktop applications. These updates include native app support for macOS and soon Windows, enabling deeper integration with other apps. The demonstration highlighted features like contextual information retrieval from open apps (e.g., code editors, note-taking software) and the use of AI models to analyze data and generate code and text, all accessible via keyboard shortcuts and even voice commands. New model capabilities were also unveiled, including improved coding assistance and advanced data analysis.

OpenAI announced new ways to access ChatGPT, including a US phone number (1-800-CHATGPT) for voice interaction and global WhatsApp messaging. A live demonstration showcased ChatGPT's capabilities via these methods, handling various requests, including recipe modifications and even answering questions on a rotary phone. The presenters emphasized OpenAI's commitment to accessibility and highlighted the quick development of these features. The new functionalities aim to make the AI more readily available to users regardless of their tech proficiency or location.

OpenAI's "Dev Day Holiday Edition—12 Days of OpenAI: Day 9" YouTube video announces several new features and improvements to their API. Key updates include the general availability of the powerful O1 model with enhanced capabilities like function calling, structured outputs, and vision input. The real-time API receives a significant upgrade with WebRTC support, simplifying real-time voice application development and reducing costs. Finally, a new preference fine-tuning method is introduced, enabling developers to better align models with their specific user preferences. New SDKs for Go and Java are also released.

OpenAI's YouTube video announces three major updates to ChatGPT's search functionality. First, improvements were made to existing search capabilities, including speed and mobile optimization. Second, search was integrated into advanced voice mode, enabling users to search via voice commands. Third, and most significantly, search capabilities are now available to all logged-in free users globally. The video showcases these new features through demonstrations and highlights user feedback incorporated into the updates.

OpenAI employees announce the launch of the "Projects" feature in ChatGPT. This new feature allows users to organize conversations, upload files, and set custom instructions within a project for better workflow management. The video showcases several use cases, including holiday gift organization and website development. The rollout begins with paid users, with free users to gain access soon after. The team emphasizes the improved user experience and collaborative potential of this tool.

OpenAI's YouTube video announces new features for ChatGPT, including video and screen sharing capabilities within Advanced Voice mode. This update allows users to conduct richer, more interactive conversations with ChatGPT, demonstrated through examples like a coffee-making tutorial and seeking help with a message. Additionally, the video introduces a special "Santa" mode, enabling users to converse with a virtual Santa Claus in real-time using voice and text. The rollout of these features will occur gradually over the next week across different platforms and subscription levels.

OpenAI and Apple collaborated to integrate ChatGPT into Apple devices (iPhones, iPads, and Macs). This integration allows users to access ChatGPT through Siri, Apple's writing tools, and camera controls, enabling tasks like document creation, summarization, and visual object identification using ChatGPT. The integration is designed to be user-friendly, requiring no account for basic use, and offering optional account login for enhanced features. Users can easily access and continue ChatGPT conversations directly from the integrated tools. The video showcases the functionality across multiple Apple devices and applications.

OpenAI's YouTube video showcases the new features of Canvas, a tool integrated into ChatGPT. Canvas allows users to collaboratively write and code with ChatGPT in a side-by-side interface, enabling easier editing and feedback. New features include Python code execution directly within Canvas, producing immediate results and visualizations, and Canvas integration with custom GPTs, letting users tailor the collaborative writing and coding experience. The video demonstrates these features through examples, such as creating a Christmas story and debugging Python code. Finally, the video highlights the expansion of Canvas availability to all users, regardless of their subscription plan.