AI-driven Archives

Winsage

May 16, 2025

How to get started with Semantic Indexing on Windows 11

Semantic Indexing is an AI-driven feature in Windows 11 that enhances search functionality using Natural Language Processing (NLP) to interpret the context and intent behind search queries. It allows users to search for files, settings, and content using conversational language rather than exact keywords. Semantic Indexing is integrated into various components of Windows 11, including File Explorer, the Start menu, and the Taskbar search box. It requires a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) and is available on Copilot+ PCs starting with the May 2025 security update. Users can verify its activation by checking for specific AI components in the settings. The feature supports various file formats such as images and documents and is compatible with several languages, including English and Spanish. The rollout of these enhancements will occur gradually.

Tech Optimizer

May 16, 2025

Databricks to acquire Neon for AI-driven serverless Postgres

Databricks plans to acquire Neon, a company specializing in serverless Postgres technology, to enhance its AI-driven database offerings and developer workflows. The acquisition reflects Databricks' commitment to the evolving database market, which is increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence. Neon’s technology is designed for AI agents, with over 80% of databases on its platform provisioned automatically by AI. Key features of Neon's platform include rapid provisioning of Postgres instances, cost efficiency through separated compute and storage, and full compatibility with the open-source Postgres ecosystem. The integration aims to address limitations of traditional databases, streamline infrastructure, and support the development of AI agent systems. Upon completion of the acquisition, Neon's team will join Databricks, and both companies aim to simplify data architecture and enhance AI agent capabilities. The acquisition is subject to regulatory approvals. Neon was founded in 2021 and focuses on serverless Postgres solutions, while Databricks serves over 10,000 organizations globally with its Data Intelligence Platform.

Tech Optimizer

May 14, 2025

Databricks Acquires Neon for $1 Billion, Boosting AI Infrastructure with Serverless PostgreSQL

Databricks has acquired Neon, a cloud-based database startup specializing in serverless PostgreSQL, in a billion-dollar deal. This acquisition aims to enhance Databricks' role in the AI tooling landscape and reflects a shift in the database market to meet the needs of AI-native applications. Neon, founded in 2021 and based in Menlo Park, California, had raised nearly million before this acquisition. Databricks CEO Ali Ghodsi noted that 80% of databases on their platform are created by code rather than humans, indicating a shift in database management driven by autonomous AI agents. Databricks has been actively acquiring companies to strengthen its AI development capabilities, having previously acquired firms like MosaicML and Arcion. Ghodsi emphasized that as a private entity, Databricks can make long-term strategic decisions without public market pressures. The acquisition reflects a broader trend of increased deal-making in the AI sector and highlights the growing importance of robust data infrastructure in the context of sovereign AI initiatives.

Tech Optimizer

May 14, 2025

Databricks to Acquire Neon, Targeting Serverless Postgres for AI Agent Workloads

Databricks plans to acquire Neon, a serverless Postgres provider designed for automation and AI-driven database interactions. Neon's architecture allows for 80% of databases on its platform to be provisioned automatically by AI agents, enabling rapid execution and unpredictable scaling. It can provision fully isolated Postgres instances in under 500 milliseconds and features instant schema and data forking. Neon's usage-based pricing model charges organizations only for executed queries, addressing cost inefficiencies of traditional databases. It is fully compatible with Postgres and supports common extensions, facilitating ease of use for developers. After the acquisition, Neon's team will join Databricks to support existing users and develop tools for AI-native systems.

Tech Optimizer

May 14, 2025

Databricks to Acquire Neon

Databricks intends to acquire Neon, a company specializing in serverless Postgres solutions, with financial details undisclosed and pending customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals. Ali Ghodsi, CEO of Databricks, stated that the acquisition aims to enhance the Databricks Data Intelligence Platform, allowing developers to build AI-driven systems more efficiently. The Neon team will integrate into Databricks upon completion of the transaction. Neon, founded in 2021 and led by CEO Nikita Shamgunov, provides a serverless Postgres platform for developers. Databricks supports over 10,000 organizations globally, with over 60% of the Fortune 500 using its services.

Winsage

May 14, 2025

Windows 11’s Patch Tuesday for May finally brings Recall into the mix

Microsoft's Recall feature is set to debut after a delay due to security concerns. The update for Windows 11, released on May 13th, includes AI-driven tools to enhance user interactions and productivity. Key features integrated from the April 25th Preview update include: - Recall (preview): Allows users to retrieve information from various applications, websites, and documents using AI for quick searches based on content descriptions, with options to save snapshots of activities and manage them through Windows Hello. - Click to Do (preview): Enables immediate action on items displayed on the screen using a keyboard shortcut for editing or summarizing content. - Improved Windows Search: Enhanced search capabilities allow natural language queries to locate documents and settings. - Phone Link: Facilitates interaction between Windows PCs and mobile devices for calls, messages, and content sharing. - Widgets: Web developers can create interactive widgets with customization options for lock screen widgets. Additional updates include improvements to File Explorer, accessibility enhancements, and new settings management options for app recommendations. The update for Windows 10 focuses on a fix for Secure Boot Advanced Targeting (SBAT) and Linux Extensible Firmware Interface (EFI) to improve detection of Linux systems. Detailed patch notes and download links are available through the Microsoft Update Catalog.

AppWizard

May 14, 2025

Android launches new protections against phone call scammers

Google is implementing new features to enhance security for Android users against phone call scams. Users will be restricted from sideloading applications or granting sensitive permissions while on a call with an unknown contact, receiving a notification that states, “This setting is blocked to protect your device.” Google has also prevented users from disabling its Play Protect security service during calls. These measures are available for devices running Android 16. Additionally, Google is piloting a feature for banking apps in the UK that alerts users of a “likely scam” when accessing these apps while sharing their screen with an unknown caller. Users can choose to end the call or face a 30-second delay before accessing their banking app’s screen. This feature will roll out for devices running Android 11 and newer. These updates build on existing scam protection tools, including AI that identifies potential scam callers and integrates scam detection into Google Messages.

AppWizard

May 14, 2025

The Android Show I/O Edition: Everything that was announced from Android 16 to Android XR

Google is unveiling key features ahead of the Google I/O event, including Material 3 Expressive (M3), which focuses on enhancing user experience through color, shape, size, motion, and containment. M3 will introduce a vibrant UI for smartphones and wearables, featuring a new "tear away" notification system and playful animations. The Pixel Watch will have animations that follow the display's curvature, and Wear OS 6 will allow users to customize color schemes and watch faces. Google's Gemini AI will be integrated into more devices, replacing Google Assistant and enhancing interactions on Wear OS, Google TV, Android Auto, and Android XR. Gemini will provide hands-free assistance for Wear OS users and facilitate natural conversations in Android Auto. It will also improve content discovery on Google TV and offer real-time planning assistance in Extended Reality devices. To combat online scams, Google is introducing privacy tools with Android 16, including enhanced warning systems in caller and Google Messages apps, AI-driven detection of fraudulent messages, and a Key Verifier program for secure end-to-end encrypted communication. Google Play Protection will implement live threat detection for malicious app changes.

AppWizard

May 13, 2025

Google is testing a feature that turns the Search app into a forum-like thread

Google is piloting a new "Discussion" feature in its Search app, focused on sports-related queries, which allows users to engage in real-time commentary. The feature, resembling a Reddit-style forum, enables users to share thoughts, respond to others, and use upvotes and downvotes. Currently in beta, it is accessible when searching for matchups like "Team vs Team" in the United States, aiming to create a community feel among sports enthusiasts.

Winsage

May 13, 2025

I replaced my laptop with Microsoft’s 12-inch Surface Pro – here’s my buying advice a week later

The 12-inch Microsoft Surface Pro is available for preorder, starting at 9 for the Platinum color and ,099 for the Violet and Ocean colors. It features a thin and lightweight design, a fast-charging battery, and a Snapdragon X Plus processor. The base model includes 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, with a maximum storage option of 512GB. Essential accessories like the keyboard, mouse, and power adapter are sold separately. The device has a resolution of 2196 x 1464 and offers up to 16 hours of battery life, achieving over 15 hours during video playback. It can charge to 50% in 30 minutes and 80% in an hour. The Surface Pro is designed for everyday users and supports AI-driven applications.