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AI, Robots, and Lawsuits: Tech News Making Waves in 2025

Meta Tests AI-Generated Comments on Instagram

Meta is currently testing a new feature on Instagram that offers AI-generated comment suggestions for users. The AI scans the post’s content and suggests responses like “Cute living room setup” or “Love the cozy vibe.” Users can tap a pencil icon to select from these pre-written comments, making it easier for them to engage without writing from scratch. This could potentially save time, especially for users who prefer quick interactions or may not know what to comment.

While the feature aims to simplify interactions, it has raised concerns about the authenticity of social media engagement. Many users may feel that AI-generated comments take away from the personal touch of genuine conversations, making interactions feel more robotic. Additionally, there’s the possibility that this feature could encourage superficial comments rather than fostering meaningful discussions. As the feature is still in its testing phase, it remains to be seen whether it will become a permanent addition to the platform or be fine-tuned to address these concerns.

1X to Test Humanoid Robots in Homes by 2025

In a bold move to bring humanoid robots into everyday life, Norwegian robotics startup 1X plans to test its robot, Neo Gamma, in a few hundred to a few thousand homes by the end of 2025. The company aims to have early adopters help train the robot’s AI by allowing it to live and learn in real environments. While Neo Gamma can perform basic tasks like vacuuming and watering plants, it still requires teleoperators for full functionality. This hands-on testing is crucial for refining its AI and capabilities, but the technology is still far from being ready for mass adoption.

As 1X continues to develop Neo Gamma, it faces several challenges, including privacy concerns surrounding data collection from people’s homes. Despite these hurdles, the project has generated excitement within the robotics community, with competitors like Figure also planning similar tests. However, the road to fully autonomous humanoid robots is long, and it will take years before these robots are available for consumers to use independently without the need for human control.

Apple Faces Lawsuit Over Delays in Apple Intelligence Features

Apple is facing a class-action lawsuit in the U.S. over alleged false advertising related to its Apple Intelligence features. The lawsuit, filed in San Jose, claims that consumers were misled by Apple’s promises of advanced AI capabilities on their devices. Users who purchased Apple products expecting these features found that they were either limited or entirely absent. Plaintiffs argue that Apple’s advertisements created unrealistic expectations about the AI’s performance, which led to dissatisfaction among buyers.

The legal trouble adds to Apple’s mounting challenges in delivering the highly anticipated Apple Intelligence features. According to reports, Apple’s AI head, John Giannandrea, has lost the confidence of CEO Tim Cook amid struggles with product development. This lawsuit highlights the growing concerns over tech companies’ ability to meet the high expectations set by their marketing.

Perplexity in Talks to Raise $1B at $18B Valuation

AI-powered search startup Perplexity is reportedly in talks to raise up to $1 billion in its latest funding round, potentially doubling its current valuation to $18 billion. The company’s annual recurring revenue has reportedly hit $100 million, marking a significant growth trajectory. Since its earlier valuation of $9 billion in December 2024, Perplexity has expanded its operations, including the development of a new “agentic” browser and increased enterprise offerings, such as AI-driven search tools for businesses.

The move to secure new funding comes as competition in the AI search space intensifies, with major players like Anthropic and Google launching new AI search products. To stay ahead, Perplexity is diversifying its services, offering innovative solutions to both consumers and enterprises. If successful, this funding round would solidify Perplexity’s position as a key player in the AI-driven search market.

Meta AI Launches in the EU with Privacy Limitations

Meta is finally rolling out its AI-powered assistant, Meta AI, in the European Union, but with significant limitations compared to the U.S. version. This new tool, available across Meta’s platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook, allows users to interact with a chatbot for basic tasks such as answering questions or finding information. However, the full set of features, including content generation tools like image creation, will not be available in Europe due to regulatory challenges.

The launch follows Meta’s struggles with EU privacy laws, particularly the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The company confirmed that the European version of Meta AI has not been trained on local user data, thus bypassing consent requirements. Meta plans to refine its AI model and expand its functionality in Europe, but for now, users will only experience a limited, non-personalized version of the assistant.

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