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Google Launches Gemini 3 Flash, Upgrading AI Experience in Gemini App and Search

Google Launches Gemini 3 Flash, Upgrading AI Experience in Gemini App and Search

Google is rolling out Gemini 3 Flash, a more efficient version of its flagship Gemini AI model, as the new default in the Gemini app and Google Search’s AI Mode. The upgrade follows the recent Gemini 3 Pro release and promises faster response times, lower operating costs, and more nuanced answers compared to the previous Gemini 2.5 Flash. Tulsee Doshi, senior director of DeepMind product, described the change as a “huge upgrade” for users, highlighting the model’s ability to process images, text, and video together while delivering answers in seconds. Developers will also gain access through a suite of Google AI tools.

Brain‑Inspired Computing Offers a Path to Slash AI Energy Use

Brain‑Inspired Computing Offers a Path to Slash AI Energy Use

Researchers from Purdue University and the Georgia Institute of Technology argue that the growing energy demands of artificial‑intelligence models stem from the longstanding "memory wall"—the gap between fast processors and slower memory. By adopting brain‑inspired architectures that integrate processing and memory, such as spiking neural networks and compute‑in‑memory (CIM) designs, they claim AI can become far more efficient. The study highlights potential benefits for devices ranging from medical equipment to drones, suggesting a shift away from traditional von Neumann designs could dramatically cut power consumption while preserving performance.

OpenAI Unveils Faster, Smarter GPT Image 1.5 in ChatGPT

OpenAI Unveils Faster, Smarter GPT Image 1.5 in ChatGPT

OpenAI has introduced GPT Image 1.5, a new image model inside ChatGPT that is faster and more reliable at editing and generating visuals. The upgrade adds a dedicated Images tab with presets, filters, and templates that let users create or modify pictures without typing prompts. Improvements include better handling of text, consistent element tracking across edits, and enhanced style blending. While the tool still produces occasional errors, OpenAI positions it as a professional‑level creative assistant that lowers the technical barrier for high‑quality visual content.

OpenAI Launches GPT Image 1.5 Amid ‘Code Red’ Competition with Google

OpenAI Launches GPT Image 1.5 Amid ‘Code Red’ Competition with Google

OpenAI has introduced GPT Image 1.5, a new version of its ChatGPT image generation tool that promises faster performance, better instruction following, and more precise editing controls. The model is now available to all ChatGPT users and via API. Its rollout follows an internal “code red” memo that highlighted a competitive push against Google’s Gemini series and Nano Banana Pro, which have recently outperformed OpenAI on benchmark leaderboards. GPT Image 1.5 builds on the earlier GPT Image 1 release, adding granular post‑production features and a redesigned creative‑studio interface within the ChatGPT sidebar.

OpenAI Launches GPT-Image Model 1.5 with Faster Speed and Better Text Rendering

OpenAI Launches GPT-Image Model 1.5 with Faster Speed and Better Text Rendering

OpenAI has released GPT-Image Model 1.5, an upgraded AI image generator that is four times faster than its predecessor and offers improved instruction following, editing tools, and legible text generation. The new model is accessible to all ChatGPT users via a dedicated sidebar space and is also available through the API. Its debut comes amid heightened competition with Google’s Gemini 3 and follows OpenAI’s recent partnership with Disney to incorporate iconic characters into future image and video offerings.

Google Introduces AI Assistant “CC” to Deliver Daily Briefings

Google Introduces AI Assistant “CC” to Deliver Daily Briefings

Google is rolling out an experimental AI assistant called CC that compiles a personalized “Your Day Ahead” briefing each morning. The service draws on a user’s Gmail, Calendar, Drive, and the web to summarize schedules, upcoming tasks, bills, and relevant updates, while also drafting emails and creating calendar links for quick action. Initially available in early‑access to paid subscribers over 18 in the United States and Canada, Google is opening a waitlist for the feature. Powered by the Gemini model, CC mirrors OpenAI’s Pulse in offering a concise daily snapshot of a user’s digital life.

OpenAI Reverses Model Router for Free Users, Restores Default ChatGPT Experience

OpenAI Reverses Model Router for Free Users, Restores Default ChatGPT Experience

OpenAI announced that it is rolling back the automated model router for users on its Free and $5‑a‑month Go tiers. The change returns these users to the default GPT‑5.2 Instant model, while still allowing manual selection of advanced reasoning models. The decision follows user feedback indicating a preference for the simpler default chat flow, and comes amid heightened competition from rivals such as Google Gemini and ongoing safety enhancements. Paid subscribers will continue to have access to the model router.

OpenAI Unveils ChatGPT-5.2 with Enhanced Prompt Handling and Real‑World Planning Features

OpenAI Unveils ChatGPT-5.2 with Enhanced Prompt Handling and Real‑World Planning Features

OpenAI introduced ChatGPT-5.2, highlighting a suite of new capabilities that aim to improve the model's adherence to user‑specified constraints, offer richer perspective shifts, provide more personalized recommendations, anticipate potential failures, and help users clarify vague intuitions. The rollout includes claims of better rule‑following, nuanced viewpoint generation, targeted question‑driven recommendations, risk‑aware planning, and structured hunch analysis, positioning the model as a more thoughtful and practical AI assistant.

OpenAI Rolls Out Faster, More Precise ChatGPT Images Update

OpenAI Rolls Out Faster, More Precise ChatGPT Images Update

OpenAI has launched a new version of its ChatGPT Images tool that is four times faster than the previous model and offers sharper instruction following. The update brings stronger capabilities for adding, subtracting, blending and transposing visual elements, as well as improved handling of dense and small text. A dedicated Images section now appears in the ChatGPT sidebar, providing preset filters and prompt ideas. The upgrade arrives amid rising usage of Google’s Gemini chatbot, positioning OpenAI’s visual generation as a key differentiator for its growing user base.

OpenAI’s Chief Communications Officer Hannah Wong Announces Departure

OpenAI’s Chief Communications Officer Hannah Wong Announces Departure

OpenAI’s chief communications officer, Hannah Wong, informed staff that she will leave the company in January. Wong, who joined OpenAI in 2021 and became chief communications officer in August 2024, has been pivotal in shaping the firm’s public narrative, especially during high‑profile challenges. The company will conduct an executive search to replace her, with VP of communications Lindsey Held overseeing the team in the interim. OpenAI’s leadership expressed gratitude for Wong’s contributions and wishes her well as she moves to the next chapter of her career.

Disney Partners with OpenAI to Bring Iconic Characters to Generative AI Platforms

Disney Partners with OpenAI to Bring Iconic Characters to Generative AI Platforms

The Walt Disney Company and OpenAI have announced a partnership that licenses hundreds of Disney, Pixar, Marvel and Star Wars characters for use in OpenAI’s generative AI tools, including ChatGPT’s image generator and the Sora video platform. Disney will also invest in OpenAI, gaining a seat at the table as the AI firm navigates regulatory and safety issues. While the deal promises new creative possibilities for fans, it also raises questions about brand protection, content moderation, and the impact on traditional animation talent.

Chai Discovery Secures $130 Million Series B, Valued at $1.3 B

Chai Discovery Secures $130 Million Series B, Valued at $1.3 B

Chai Discovery, an AI‑driven biotech startup backed by OpenAI, announced a $130 million Series B financing round that lifts its valuation to $1.3 billion. The round was led by General Catalyst and Oak HC/FT, with participation from Menlo Ventures, OpenAI, Dimension, Thrive Capital, Neo, Yosemite venture fund, Lachy Groom, SV Angel, Glade Brook and Emerson Collective. The new capital brings the company’s total funding to over $225 million. Chai’s platform, now in its second generation (Chai 2), aims to accelerate drug discovery by using foundation models to design molecules and de‑novo antibodies, positioning the firm as a leading player in AI‑enabled biotech.