Would You Trust a Robot with Skin?
Hey there.
This week, Japanese scientists created human-like skin for robots to express emotions, Runway opened its new AI model to all, and Open AI added a new Apple board member.
It's July, with about six months left in 2024. Many people struggle to follow their goals, but a mid-year review can help you get back on track. Read my latest blog to learn how. Let's dive in...
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🖥️ Tech Bytes
Runway's Gen-3 Alpha Is Now Available to Everyone
Runway has just announced that its AI video generator, Gen-3 Alpha, is now available to all users after weeks of viral outputs since its release in mid-June. Gen-3 Alpha, the first model in Runway's next-gen series, features significant upgrades in character and scene consistency, camera motion, and scene transitions. Access is available through Runway’s 'Standard' $12/month plan, which offers 63 seconds of generation time per month. Additionally, a free hands-on workshop is scheduled to teach users how to create AI commercials using Gen-3, ElevenLabs, and Midjourney. This release marks a significant advancement in AI video capabilities, although limited generation time may be a constraint for heavy users.
Living Skin Makes Robots More Human-Like
Scientists have developed a method to attach engineered living skin tissue to robots, allowing them to smile and appear more lifelike. A team at Tokyo University, led by Professor Shoji Takeuchi, demonstrated that this living skin enhances robotic mobility and could aid plastic surgeons and the cosmetics industry. The skin, made from living cells, is attached to robots using special V-shaped perforations, allowing it to move with the robot's mechanical components without tearing. The skin can also self-heal, unlike chemical-based materials, and potentially incorporate nerves and other organs for sensing. Takeuchi emphasized the challenges of working with biological tissues and the motivation to create robots with human-like dexterity and self-healing abilities. Future advancements aim to make the skin even more realistic by adding features like sweat glands, pores, and blood vessels.
Head of App Store Joins OpenAI Board
Apple has appointed App Store chief Phil Schiller to represent the company on OpenAI’s nonprofit board in an observer role, meaning he can attend meetings but can't vote. This move allows Schiller to gain insights into OpenAI as Apple plans to integrate ChatGPT into iOS and macOS, enhancing Siri's capabilities. While no money is currently involved, Apple is expected to receive a percentage of ChatGPT subscriptions made through its platforms in the future. Microsoft's similar observer role on OpenAI’s board suggests potential complexities in coordinating plans with both tech giants. OpenAI and Apple have yet to comment on the report.
🌱 Personal Growth
Your Personal Half-Yearly Review: A Step-by-Step Guide
As we progress halfway through 2024, June presents an excellent opportunity to pause, reflect on the past six months, and plan for the upcoming six. Conducting personal half-yearly reviews is an effective method to gauge your position, celebrate your achievements, and reset some of your goals. In this guide, I’ll help you conduct a comprehensive review, helping you make substantial progress toward your goals by December.
Link: https://www.vensy.me/half-yearly-review-2024
🎁 Tools of the Week
Recraft.ai: AI tool for creating and editing digital art & 3D graphics in a consistent brand style.
Walling: a platform to organize and present ideas effortlessly.
Autofillr: AI tool to fill out web forms automatically.
These were my top insights from this week. Stay tuned for more content on tech, AI, no-code, and entrepreneurship. If you liked this edition, do let me know on X/Twitter. I also share video content on my Instagram page.