Nick Turley, head of ChatGPT at OpenAI, envisions transforming ChatGPT into an operating system with third-party apps, drawing inspiration from web browsers. This evolution aims to make ChatGPT a central platform for various applications, similar to how browsers have become essential for online activities.

OpenAI is working with Jony Ive on hardware devices and exploring e-commerce integration within ChatGPT, allowing transactions through apps from companies like Expedia, DoorDash, and Uber. This approach provides developers access to ChatGPT’s 800 million users and the ability to build interactive experiences.

Turley emphasizes that ChatGPT will be the delivery vehicle for OpenAI’s mission to distribute AGI, benefiting humanity. The company is also focusing on user privacy by requesting developers to disclose data usage and planning to implement fine-grained data access controls.

OpenAI aims to balance app prioritization and user experience, considering various distribution mechanisms, including potential paid placement. Turley also highlighted that the evolution of the platform will enable diverse applications, enhancing its utility and accessibility for a wide range of users, including educational and assistive tools.

AST SpaceMobile and Verizon have entered into a partnership to deliver space-based cellular broadband across the United States. Verizon will integrate AST's satellite network with its terrestrial infrastructure, utilizing Verizon's 850 MHz spectrum to extend coverage in remote areas.

This agreement builds upon a previous commitment of $100 million from Verizon to support AST's service rollout. AST has already launched its first five BlueBird satellites into low Earth orbit and is developing the next generation of satellites with plans to deploy 45-60 satellites by 2026.

The satellite-to-cell market is rapidly evolving, with competitors like SpaceX's Starlink also rolling out direct-to-cell services. AST has demonstrated 4G and 5G connections between its satellites and smartphones.

Google has introduced Gemini CLI Extensions, enabling third-party integrations with its command-line AI system. This launch, featuring extensions from companies like Figma and Stripe, follows OpenAI's integration of apps in ChatGPT. Unlike the curated access in ChatGPT, Gemini CLI extensions are openly available on GitHub, fostering an open ecosystem.

The first extension is Google's Nanobanana image generator, allowing users to generate images directly from the Gemini CLI terminal. With over one million users, Gemini CLI is heavily utilized by software developers, including Google's own codebase development.

Google aims to transform Gemini CLI into an extensible platform, connecting it to various tools within a developer's toolchain, according to Ryan J. Salva, Google's senior director of product management for developer tools.

Qapita, a Singapore-based equity management platform, has raised $26.5 million in a Series B round led by Charles Schwab. This partnership introduces Schwab Private Issuer Equity Services, powered by Qapita, aimed at U.S. startups for managing cap tables and stock plans. Founded in 2019, Qapita helps private companies track ownership and manage employee equity across Southeast Asia and the U.S. With 2,700 companies using its platform, Qapita is expanding its presence in the U.S. through this collaboration. The funding will also support the launch of a fund admin product across multiple markets.

Google is expanding access to Opal, its AI-powered vibe-coding app, to 15 additional countries, including Canada, India, Japan, South Korea, and Brazil. The app enables users to create mini web apps using text prompts.

Early adopters in the U.S. surprised Google with sophisticated and practical apps, prompting the global expansion.

Opal allows users to describe their desired app, and Google's models generate it. Users can customize the app's visual workflow, edit prompts, and add new steps. Apps can be published and shared for others to test.

Google has improved Opal's debugging program, keeping it no-code. Users can run workflows step-by-step, tweak steps in the console, and see errors in context.

Performance improvements have significantly reduced app creation time. Steps can now run in parallel for complex workflows.

Tesla has introduced more affordable 'Standard' versions of its Model 3 sedan and Model Y SUV, priced at $36,990 and $39,990, respectively. These models offer an estimated 321 miles of range but come with fewer features, including the omission of Autopilot and a more minimalist interior. The release aims to boost Tesla's sales after a decline in 2024, though the pricing is higher than initial expectations, particularly the unrealized $25,000 Tesla.

The new 'Standard' models have differences inside and outside, such as manually adjusted steering wheels and side mirrors, fewer speakers, and no second-row touchscreen. External changes include removing the light bar and glass roof found on pricier Model Y variants. This move is part of Tesla's effort to cut costs, but it also strategically positions Tesla against competitors, including Ford, General Motors, Rivian, Lucid Motors, and Slate Auto, amid changing market dynamics and EV tax credit expiration.