Microsoft Paint gets an AI upgrade

Microsoft Paint is getting a major upgrade that injects a dose of cutting-edge technology. Unveiled at the recent Surface event, Paint now boasts a new AI image generation tool as part of its Cocreator (Microsoft's AI-powered creative suite).

This isn't your average AI art generator. While it can create images based on text prompts like many others, it takes things a step further. It allows users to combine their own doodles with text descriptions, enabling a unique level of creative control. Imagine sketching a basic shape and then having AI refine it into a detailed illustration—all within the familiar Paint interface. This iterative process, powered by advanced diffusion-based algorithms, fosters a collaborative feel between artist and machine.

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Sonos debuts premium headphones, the Sonos Ace

Photo: Sonos

Sonos is expanding its audio expertise beyond speakers with the introduction of the Sonos Ace, its first pair of headphones. The Ace stays true to the Sonos brand, offering a sleek design, exceptional sound quality, and seamless integration with the Sonos ecosystem.

While independent reviews are yet to come in, Sonos promises a captivating audio experience with custom-designed 40mm drivers. Beamforming microphones ensure clear voice calls and effective active noise cancellation (ANC).

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YouTube TV tests enhanced 720p quality for smoother streaming

Image: Chrome Unboxed

YouTube TV is rolling out a new "720p Enhanced" option for select users to boost video quality. This follows their earlier trials with "1080p Enhanced," which aimed to improve picture clarity without increasing resolution.

The "720p Enhanced" setting utilizes a more advanced streaming codec and higher bitrate. This translates to smoother visuals, particularly beneficial for channels that broadcast in 720p.

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Microsoft unveils AI-powered 'Recall' for enhanced productivity, but privacy concerns linger

Image: Microsoft

At its recent Build conference, Microsoft introduced a new feature called "Recall" for Copilot+ PCs. Designed to boost user productivity, Recall allows Windows 11 users to search and retrieve past activities on their devices.

Recall leverages the advanced processing capabilities of Copilot+ PCs to capture snapshots of the user's screen periodically. These encrypted snapshots are stored locally on the PC's hard drive. Users can then search for specific content by using keywords or by navigating a timeline of captured snapshots.

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