Brief

The Goethe-Institut is developing a qualification concept to equip libraries with the knowledge to answer public inquiries about artificial intelligence. This initiative aims to provide libraries with the necessary tools and understanding to address the growing public interest in AI, recognizing it as a crucial cultural technique that requires learning and trustworthy institutions. AI

Microsoft's Copilot is being utilized for creative tasks such as generating program names and background images, with tips provided on how to elicit desired responses. Separately, Ray-Ban Meta's second-generation smart sunglasses have launched in Japan, retailing from 73,700 yen. Additionally, a new gaming PC featuring the GeForce RTX 5090 Founders Edition and a Ryzen 7 9800X3D CPU has been released, boasting powerful performance for both gaming and generative AI applications. AI

Google is offering a free tier of YouTube Premium Lite to users who subscribe to its new AI plan. This AI plan costs 2,900 yen per month, and includes access to Google's AI services. The YouTube Premium Lite tier normally costs 780 yen per month. AI

Intuit is reportedly planning to lay off approximately 3,000 employees, which represents about 17% of its total workforce. This significant workforce reduction is part of a broader restructuring effort by the company. The company aims to simplify its organizational structure and refocus its strategy around artificial intelligence. AI

Forge CMS offers a self-hosted, open-source content management system built with Go, emphasizing simplicity and reliability. It compiles to a single binary, eliminating dependencies like Node.js and lock files, which simplifies deployment and maintenance. The system is designed to integrate AI agents seamlessly into workflows without requiring complex orchestration layers, as agents communicate through content state rather than direct interaction. AI

LINE has introduced new AI features directly within its chat interface, which users can easily disable. A simple two-click process allows for the deactivation of these AI functionalities, offering users control over their chat experience. AI

Financial software company Intuit has announced a significant workforce reduction, cutting 17% of its full-time employees. This move is intended to streamline operations and increase organizational agility. The company anticipates incurring restructuring costs in the range of $300 million to $340 million due to this decision. AI

A user on Reddit is expressing frustration with a recent update to the Cursor IDE, reporting that their workspace layout and key functionalities like Git integration and compilation commands have been altered or removed. They are seeking guidance on how to restore their previous setup and are questioning the necessity of reinitializing their Git repository. The user is unhappy with the changes, finding the new version disorienting and difficult to use. AI

Artificial intelligence is being utilized in dentistry to aid in the restoration of bites and the planning of dental implants. This technology assists medical professionals by providing detailed insights and planning capabilities for complex dental procedures. The application of AI in this field aims to improve patient outcomes and the precision of treatments. AI

Disney is integrating Hulu's watch history and recommendations into the Disney+ app for eligible bundle subscribers. This feature, rolling out later in 2026, aims to enhance the user experience for those with combined subscriptions. While Disney is encouraging users to engage more with its core platform, the standalone Hulu app will remain accessible. AI

36Kr has launched a special edition of its "Focus" product plan for the 618 shopping festival, featuring 16 selected products. The initiative aims to highlight noteworthy items across digital, home appliance, and automotive categories. This program is part of 36Kr's broader effort to provide insights into cutting-edge technology and investment news, particularly for the startup and venture capital sectors. AI

Google is integrating AI-powered shopping features into its search engine. These new tools will help users compare prices and check the compatibility of items, such as PC components, before purchasing. The AI aims to simplify the online shopping experience by providing more detailed and helpful information directly within search results. AI

A comprehensive service map for drivers has been launched in China, integrating over 2,100 driver rest stops, charging and refueling facilities, and government information. This initiative aims to provide expanded services for new employment groups such as taxi and ride-hailing drivers. The map's development and future services are expected to cater to the evolving needs of these professional drivers. AI

WordPress has introduced new AI features that are not enabled by default in its latest version, 7.0. Users must explicitly install an 'AI' plugin and then a specific connector plugin to integrate with platforms like OpenAI or Gemini. This opt-in approach contrasts with opt-out systems, offering users control over AI functionality. AI

Oriental Select, an e-commerce platform associated with New Oriental, has opened its first offline experience store. The store, which began its trial operations during the May Day holiday with about 40% of its products being self-operated, has now increased this proportion to over 50% for its official launch. The company plans to leverage New Oriental's existing educational network to open more such stores in various cities. AI

Kansas City Public Schools is transitioning to an all-Apple district, replacing over 30,000 Windows and Chromebook devices with Apple products. The district has already acquired more than 4,500 MacBook Neos for students in 8th grade and above. This significant purchase, at a discounted rate of $499 per device for education users, could indicate Apple's increased focus on the education market. AI

UGREEN has released its new DXP4800 GT NAS device, featuring dual 10GbE ports for enhanced connectivity. The device is available for purchase starting at 2,681.1 RMB. AI

Taien Kang's subsidiary, Anhui Taien Kang Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., has received a Drug Registration Certificate from China's National Medical Products Administration for its "Hewei Zhengchang Pill." This traditional Chinese medicine is classified as a Category 4 drug and is intended to warm the stomach, regulate qi, and relieve pain, addressing symptoms like abdominal pain and diarrhea. The company acknowledges that future sales performance is subject to market and policy uncertainties. AI

XPeng has officially launched its new GX flagship SUV, offering eight different variants. The pricing for this new model begins at 269,800 RMB. AI

Google has quietly altered its Google AI Pro plan, shifting from a fixed message limit to a credit-based system. This new model consumes credits based on prompt complexity, feature usage, and conversation length, leading to user frustration over perceived lower limits. The changes affect Gemini features across various Google services, including Google Photos, and may encourage users to upgrade to the more expensive Google AI Ultra plan. AI

Kobo ereaders and reading apps will integrate with the social reading platform StoryGraph starting in June. This partnership aims to streamline the process of tracking and sharing reading progress, automatically syncing book completion and current reading status. The integration offers users an alternative to Amazon's Goodreads and aligns with Kobo's strategy of providing readers with greater control over their experience. AI

XPeng launched its first full-size flagship SUV, the XPeng GX, on May 20th. The vehicle is available in both pure electric and extended-range versions, with eight different trims. Priced starting at 269,800 yuan during a limited-time promotional period, the GX garnered 24,863 pre-orders within its first 12 hours of availability. AI

Apple Music has stated that AI-generated songs constitute less than 1% of weekly plays on its platform. The company is actively working to combat AI music by updating its style guide to prohibit misleading AI use and developing internal technology to identify and remove AI-generated content, especially if it involves streaming manipulation. Apple Music also requires content providers to disclose AI usage, a policy that will become mandatory for all providers in the future. AI

Dongcheng Pharmaceutical's subsidiary, Yunké Pharmaceutical, has begun customized production of Yttrium-90 radioisotopes. While this marks a new production capability, the current revenue generated from this specific product is relatively small. The company's statement indicates a nascent stage for this particular venture. AI

Samsung's upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 8 is reportedly set to omit the privacy screen feature introduced with the Galaxy S26 Ultra. Tipster Ice Universe also suggests the new foldable will not support the S Pen and will feature a crease that shows little improvement. These decisions may be due to engineering challenges in adapting the flexible display technology or to manage manufacturing costs. AI

The latest Nintendo Switch 2 controllers have been tested, revealing a wide range of options and price points for consumers. While Nintendo's official Pro Controller offers wireless functionality for $89, other third-party controllers also provide various features and value. AI

The beta version of KDE Plasma 6.7 is showing significant promise, with one tester declaring it their preferred Linux desktop. Early impressions suggest a highly impressive and advanced user experience. AI

AYANEO is set to unveil new products this week, with an event scheduled for tomorrow. The company is known for its portable gaming devices, and this announcement is expected to bring more offerings in that category. Details about the specific products to be revealed are currently limited. AI

Amazon has discontinued support for eight specific Kindle e-reader models and some Fire tablets. This change means these devices can no longer access the Kindle Store for new purchases. However, their existing content remains accessible, and they are not rendered obsolete. AI

A Pinduoduo initiative is bringing e-commerce delivery to remote villages in China's mountainous regions, overcoming logistical challenges. Delivery driver Zhang Xi navigates difficult terrain to establish nearly 90 new pickup points, often teaching elderly residents how to manage the process. This service provides essential goods and connects isolated communities with the outside world, with Pinduoduo covering the final-mile delivery costs. AI

US schools are reportedly moving away from Chromebooks towards MacBook Neos, potentially impacting Google's new laptop category before its launch. This shift suggests a growing preference for Apple's devices in educational settings, raising concerns for Google's market share in this segment. AI

The Android 17 QPR1 Beta 3 update has introduced new screenshot overlay buttons that may be intended for a future operating system. These new shortcuts for clipboard and folder access suggest a potential integration with a new OS, possibly named Aluminium OS. The discovery was made through an APK teardown of the latest beta release. AI

ZDNet has awarded its latest Lab Award to a VPN service, recognizing it as the best option for travelers. The award was based on tests conducted in major cities including New York, London, and Tokyo, where the VPN demonstrated the fastest download speeds among popular services. AI

Android 17 is introducing a new media switcher designed to improve user experience by eliminating the need for excessive swiping. This updated interface aims to prevent accidental skips or fast-forwards of media playback. The change is part of the ongoing development for the next iteration of the Android operating system. AI

BOOX has unveiled its new Poke 7 e-reader lineup, set to launch in China on May 21st. The company aims to position these devices as a more open alternative to Amazon's Kindle. The announcement highlights BOOX's strategy to compete in the e-reader market with enhanced features and a less restrictive user experience. AI

Canonical has launched Ubuntu Core 26, an updated long-term support version of its immutable operating system. This release features smaller over-the-air update sizes and introduces support for ARM64 Livepatch. The new version is designed for IoT devices and embedded systems, emphasizing security and reliability. AI

Wear OS 7 is set to introduce significant battery life improvements, a feature that is being highlighted as more critical than initially perceived. The upcoming update aims to address common user complaints about smartwatch power consumption. This focus on battery efficiency is particularly notable when considering devices like the Fitbit Air, which may not offer comparable advancements. AI

Samsung is offering a $1,500 discount on its 85-inch Frame Pro TV for a limited time. This promotion is available for orders placed directly with Samsung. The deal applies to the 85-inch Frame Pro TV model. AI

Roku has initiated a significant promotional event, offering substantial discounts on streaming subscriptions. These deals, reminiscent of Black Friday sales, provide a 90% reduction on subscription costs. The company is encouraging users to take advantage of these limited-time offers, warning that future promotions may not be as favorable. AI

The Boox Gen-2 Go 10.3 is an E ink tablet designed for power users who want a customizable Android experience. While it excels as an annotator, users may face a steep learning curve. The tablet features a backlight for enhanced usability. AI

Google Health has released a new widget for Android devices that displays up to six fitness statistics directly on the home screen. This widget aims to provide users with quick access to their health data, integrating seamlessly with the Android ecosystem. AI

Klarna has launched a new shopping search app directly within ChatGPT, allowing users to find products, check real-time prices, and view availability. The integration leverages Klarna's extensive commerce data platform, which includes over 100 million products and 400 million offers across 13 markets. This feature aims to provide a more seamless shopping experience by enabling users to discover and be redirected to specific retailer sites for purchases, while also offering retailers a new channel to reach consumers. AI

The Beats Fit Pro true wireless earbuds are currently on sale for $134.99, representing a 32% discount. This deal offers a saving of $65 off the original price, making them an attractive option for those looking to purchase new noise-canceling earbuds. AI

Google has reportedly ended unlimited access to its Gemini AI model, implementing new usage limits that are already causing user frustration. This change appears to be a silent rollout, with users and news outlets noting the shift away from previously unrestricted access. The new restrictions are impacting how users can interact with Gemini, leading to disappointment among those who relied on its open availability. AI

A guide is available for installing and running a frontier AI model locally on a MacBook. This setup allows for stable, verifiable decision traces, with instructions covering installation, steering, reproducibility, and tuning. The model in question is the 284. AI

Samsung workers have paused their strike action as they negotiate for a bonus related to the company's advancements in artificial intelligence. The labor union is seeking recognition and financial incentives tied to the company's AI developments. This pause in industrial action allows for further discussions between the union and Samsung management regarding compensation and the impact of AI on the workforce. AI

WordPress 7.0 has been released, introducing an integrated AI client that brings machine learning capabilities directly into the platform. This new feature allows users to access AI-powered functions without needing to connect to external services. Plugin developers are advised to familiarize themselves with the Abilities API and MCP Adapter, which are key components for leveraging these new AI features. AI

AT&T has introduced a new customizable phone plan option, allowing customers to build their own service starting at $15 per month. This new plan enables users to select specific add-ons that best suit their needs for the upcoming billing cycle. AI

Samsung is exploring new concepts for rollable smartphones, as evidenced by recent patent filings. These designs include innovative mechanisms for screen expansion and device folding, suggesting a continued commitment to developing novel form factors beyond current foldable designs. The company aims to push the boundaries of mobile technology with these experimental approaches. AI

Hopetown, a "psychogeographic" RPG developed by Longdue, has unveiled a new gameplay teaser trailer. The trailer offers a detailed look at the game's investigation and publishing mechanics. Accompanying the trailer are new screenshots and artwork, providing further insight into the game's world and features. AI