It’s time for Bits & Bytes…
… where we bring you news, innovations, and thought-provoking insights from AI, IT, and beyond. In this week’s newsletter we’re looking at:
- Google’s Gemini 2.5 Pro gets an AI research assistant that’s outperforming competitors in blind tests.
- Snapchat introduces AI Lenses, a new advertising format used by Uber, Tinder and other giants.
- Google’s AI enhances Wizard of Oz for Las Vegas’ Sphere with stunning 16K visuals.
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
🚀 Gemini 2.5 Pro Gets AI Research Superpowers
Google has supercharged its research capabilities by integrating Deep Research with Gemini 2.5 Pro Experimental, giving Advanced subscribers access to what may be the most powerful AI research assistant available today. In blind tests, this new combo crushed competitors, with evaluators preferring its reports by an overwhelming 2-to-1 margin.
The upgrade transforms how professionals approach complex research tasks, with improvements in analytical depth and synthesis capabilities. The system connects disparate information threads into cohesive, insight-rich reports that would typically require hours of expert work.
TL;DR
- Delivers analytical reasoning that rivals expert human researchers
- Synthesizes information across diverse sources with remarkable coherence
- Transforms written research into podcast-style audio briefings.
TECH HEADLINES FROM ACROSS THE WEB
🤳Snapchat Launches AI-Powered Ad Format for Brands
Snapchat has introduced Sponsored AI Lenses, a new advertising format using proprietary genAI technology. These interactive lenses transport users into themed scenarios creating personalized brand experiences. Major brands like Uber, Tinder, and Coldplay have already adopted the format, which delivers 25-45% more impressions in a single day , eliminating the need for complex 3D design work.
💬 WordPress Launches Free AI Website Builder with Chat Interface
WordPress.com has introduced a new AI website builder that creates functional websites through simple conversation. The free tool includes 30 prompts before requiring a hosting plan ($48-$300/year), targeting entrepreneurs and freelancers who need professional sites without technical expertise.
🧙♀️ Wizard of Oz Gets AI Makeover for Las Vegas Sphere
Google Cloud and DeepMind have collaborated to enhance the 86-year-old “Wizard of Oz” film for Las Vegas Sphere’s massive 160,000-square-foot screen. Using fine-tuned Gemini models, Veo 2, and Imagen 3, engineers increased resolution to 16K while extending backgrounds and recreating characters for enhanced immersion.
TECH FOR GOOD
🩺 University of Missouri Brings AI-Powered Heart Monitor
University of Missouri researchers developed a starfish-shaped wearable heart monitor that achieves 90% accuracy in detecting heart issues with AI-powered sensors. The unique five-armed design keeps stable contact with the chest, even during movement. It captures both electrical and mechanical heart activity, offering a more complete picture of heart health.
