Foldable iPhone and Uzbek chatbot Uzbek Expert: what's new in the IT sector in Central Asia and around the world

We are sharing a digest of the latest news. Read more in our review.

New Gemini chatbot from Google

Google announced the reconstruction of its AI chatbot Bard into Gemini. The new multimodal generative AI platform no longer relies solely on text to generate human-like responses. It represents a direct challenge to Microsoft Copilot and any other chatbot based solely on large language model technology.

Source: computerworld.com

Huawei and VS TRADE form a partnership

Global leader in communications technology, Huawei, and leading distributor of technological solutions, VS TRADE, have formed a partnership.

The main goal of the collaboration is to empower small and medium-sized businesses through the Huawei eKit service suite, which enhances efficiency, security, and ensures seamless network infrastructure connectivity.

Source: wired.com

Applications now open for Startup Garage and Tech Girls

Astana Hub's Startup Garage program has opened applications for its third cohort until March 5. The program lasts three months and is open to startups from all over Kazakhstan and neighboring countries.

Additionally, Astana Hub and Techno Women announce the launch of the Tech Girls program for young women aged 16 to 23. Applications are accepted from February 7 to March 1 of this year.

Source: astanahub.com

Britain invests $125 million in AI research and regulation

Britain will spend $125 million to launch nine new artificial intelligence research centers and train regulatory bodies on this technology.

Nearly $115 million will go to centers focused on using AI in areas such as healthcare and chemistry, as well as on partnerships with the United States. Another $10 million will help regulatory bodies manage risks and leverage all opportunities presented by AI.

Source: reuters.com

We Digital agency launches Uzbek-language chatbot Uzbek Expert

Uzbek Expert is designed for content creators, helping them work with the Uzbek language, generate texts, and answer questions with contextual awareness. Access to Uzbek Expert requires a ChatGPT-4 subscription for $20.

Source: spot.uz

YouTube developing a special app for Apple Vision Pro

Apple Vision Pro users are already using the service via Safari. However, the device currently does not support 360-degree and VR videos on YouTube. Representatives from YouTube and Apple have confirmed the development of an app for Vision Pro.

Source: ixbt.com

Massachusetts Institute of Technology to begin joint research with Satbayev University

An agreement was signed at MIT for Satbayev University to join the Fab Lab Network—an international network of laboratories that connects engineering researchers and practitioners worldwide using digital technologies. The agreement will provide talented youth and scientists with access to tools, knowledge, and financial resources for learning, innovation, and invention.

Source: gov.kz

Google developing a new gadget — Citron

Google is developing a new Pixel Tablet codenamed Citron. The new tablet may feature an OLED screen, Pixel Stylus support, and a keyboard.

Source: gizmochina.com

Next-generation laptop from Lenovo

Lenovo is preparing a new laptop with a transparent lid and screen.
The debut will take place in late February at the MWC exhibition in Barcelona.

Source: beebom.com

Apple developing a foldable iPhone

At least two versions of foldable smartphones with a horizontal fold in the middle of the screen are under development. However, durability issues with prototypes are complicating the development process. Additionally, limited sizes of available batteries and display components hinder the creation of a foldable device with the same thinness as existing models.

The release of a foldable iPhone is not planned for the next two years. Presumably, the new iPad version will not be available for sale until 2026.

Source: theinformation.com

Disney and Epic Games to create an open game universe

The Walt Disney Company and Epic Games will collaborate to create a completely new game and entertainment universe related to Fortnite. Disney is also investing $1.5 billion to acquire a stake in Epic Games as part of a multi-year project.

Source: thewaltdisneycompany.com