Dear Studio Fam,
This week we cover everything from cutting-edge AR hardware to the slow pace of AI rollout for the new iPhone. We’ll explore a major partnership aimed at improving the digital experience for travelers, as well as innovative new pricing models that could change the way developers adopt augmented reality technology. Lastly, we take a closer look at a high-profile legal case involving misleading practices in online retail.
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New Snapchat Spectacles Are Very Big
Snapchat’s latest Spectacles are very big and not stylish at all, and it’s all on purpose. The new wearable device is targeted specifically to software developers and offers an impressive augmented reality experience for its unique price: $99 a month. The subscription model aims to lower the barrier to entry for AR development and increase the number of developers building products for what will someday be a consumer version of the product.
New iPhones Still Don’t Have Apple Intelligence
Apple has been hyping its AI system, Apple Intelligence, for over six months, but it missed the iPhone 16 launch. Despite the device being purpose-built to utilize these new features, Apple Intelligence is still not ready for general use. We wrote previously about how Apple was gatekeeping access to Apple Intelligence in the new iOS beta build, suggesting the company has still not perfected the new integration within Siri and iOS. This delay raises questions about Apple’s AI strategy, especially when the iPhone 16 was so closely tied to these capabilities. Customers of the new phone will have to wait a bit longer to access the flagship service, and developers will have to wait even longer for there to be a reason to implement Apple Intelligence into their apps.
Apple Intelligence In Public Beta
Some Apple Intelligence features are finally in public beta, and they are highly limited compared to the demos we’ve seen at the past two Apple Keynotes dedicated to them. Currently available only to users with the latest iOS 18.1 update, the beta supports U.S. English and restricts access to AI writing tools, and photo organization. These features are only accessible to those who join a waitlist and install the beta software. Apple has promised a wider rollout in December, along with support for additional languages like Chinese and French.
United Airlines Announces Starlink Partnership
United Airlines is making a significant change to its in-flight internet service by partnering with SpaceX’s Starlink to offer faster and more reliable Wi-Fi. Current in-flight connections are often slow and frustrating, especially on longer flights or when flying over oceans. With Starlink’s satellite network, United aims to provide a better experience, allowing passengers to stream videos or stay connected without the interruptions they’re used to. The new system is expected to improve connectivity, replacing the often unreliable options travelers have had to deal with. This shift could set a new standard for in-flight Wi-Fi across the industry.
Amazon Sued For False Advertising
Amazon is facing a new lawsuit filed by individual consumers, accusing the company of using misleading pricing tactics to sell Fire TVs. Unlike recent antitrust actions brought by the Federal Government, this case focuses on deceptive advertisements rather than market dominance. The lawsuit claims Amazon falsely presents TV prices as major discounts by comparing them to inflated “list prices” that do not reflect actual market values. Consumers argue that these supposed discounts mislead them into thinking they are getting a better deal than they really are. The case highlights ongoing concerns about transparency in online retail pricing.