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Spotify has addressed misinformation regarding its terms of use, clarifying that recent updates do not affect artists' distribution rights. The company stated that the new terms apply to features like user-created playlist covers and comments, not the rights of artists, podcasters, creators, and authors. This announcement follows criticism over artist compensation, with ongoing debates about streaming royalties. Despite these concerns, Spotify claims to have paid out $10 billion to the music industry in 2024.
Instagram is experimenting with algorithm control tools for Threads, allowing users to 'tag' the algorithm to customize their feed. Reverse engineer Alessandro Paluzzi discovered the code, and Instagram confirmed the internal prototype. Users can tag an account to indicate desired content. This mirrors Elon Musk's plan for X. Instagram is revamping its app to focus on Reels and recommendations. These changes respond to concerns about social media's influence on youth and the rise of open social networks like Bluesky.
OpenAI has introduced ChatGPT Pulse, a new feature designed to proactively generate personalized reports for users, delivering five to ten daily briefs. This aims to encourage users to start their day with ChatGPT, similar to checking social media or news apps.
Pulse is part of OpenAI's shift towards asynchronous AI interaction, positioning ChatGPT as a proactive assistant rather than a reactive chatbot. Initially available for $200-a-month Pro plan subscribers, Pulse offers news roundups, personalized briefs, and travel itineraries based on user context. It leverages ChatGPT's Connectors for integration with apps like Google Calendar and Gmail.
The service is designed to be different from engagement-optimized social media apps, intentionally limiting the number of reports generated. OpenAI envisions Pulse becoming more agentic in the future, capable of making reservations and drafting emails, though this is a long-term goal.
Doorstep, founded by Shashwat Murarka and Sheel Patel, has raised an $8 million seed round led by Canaan Partners to improve delivery tracking. The company's technology integrates into existing delivery apps, using phone sensors to track drivers inside buildings and provide real-time, verifiable data to platforms like UberEats and DoorDash. This helps automate dispute resolution, validate deliveries, and rebuild trust between platforms, customers, and drivers. The funding will be used to move the technology from pilot to full production and expand the team.
Apple is pushing back against the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA), claiming it forces the company to delay the launch of some features in the EU, impacting user experience and security. Apple argues that DMA's interoperability requirements compromise user privacy and increase risks of scams and malware. The company has called on the European Commission to repeal the DMA. However, the EU Commission argues that DMA is about user choice and fair competition, not about lowering privacy or security standards.