testing ground

AppWizard
February 21, 2025
Brendan Greene, known for creating PUBG, is working on a new project called Prologue, which tests innovative terrain generation technology for his larger vision, Project Artemis. Prologue aims to refine machine learning algorithms that can produce over 4 billion unique map configurations. Greene acknowledges past leadership challenges but credits CTO Laurent Gorga for fostering a collaborative development approach. He estimates that achieving Project Artemis could take up to a decade and emphasizes the importance of Prologue's commercial success for securing resources. Greene envisions Project Artemis as a vast, player-driven universe, inspired by games like Minecraft and No Man's Sky, with a world measuring 10,000 square kilometers. He aims to create an environment where players can craft diverse experiences and distances himself from commercial interpretations of the Metaverse, focusing instead on genuine user-generated experiences.
Winsage
November 23, 2024
Microsoft has released the optional KB5046714 Preview cumulative update for Windows 10 22H2, which includes six bug fixes. Notable fixes address issues with uninstalling or updating packaged applications, backup of Win32 shortcuts to the cloud, dragging and dropping files from cloud folders, Windows activation after a motherboard replacement, updates for mobile operator profiles, and responsiveness issues with IPP USB printers. The update does not introduce new features and is part of Microsoft's routine non-security preview updates. Users can install it through Windows Update or manually from the Microsoft Update Catalog. After installation, Windows 10 22H2 will be upgraded to build 19045.5198. There are currently no known issues associated with this update.
Winsage
November 13, 2024
October saw the introduction of various applications utilizing the Neural Processing Unit (NPU) on Copilot+ PCs, enhancing AI innovations on the Windows platform. Adobe Premiere Pro became the first Adobe application to leverage NPU capabilities, integrating features like the Audio Category Tagger, which automatically tags audio clips. Capture One announced two AI-powered features, Match Look and AI Crop, for Copilot+ PCs, utilizing Qualcomm's NPU. Affinity Photo 2 introduced AI-enhanced Object Selection capabilities, automating the creation of layer masks using machine learning with Qualcomm's Hexagon NPU. DirectML facilitates compatibility across hardware architectures, supporting these advancements in AI applications on Windows.
AppWizard
November 12, 2024
Blizzard Entertainment has announced the launch of Overwatch: Classic, a limited-time mode within Overwatch 2 that aims to recreate the gameplay of the original release. While it will not be a perfect replica, it will feature familiar hero dynamics such as D.Va’s mech exploding upon destruction, Torbjorn distributing armor packs, and Mercy being able to resurrect her entire team. This mode will also test 6v6 matches to gather feedback on hero balance and queue times. Overwatch: Classic will become a recurring event with potential future modes inspired by significant moments in the game's history. It is set to go live on Tuesday, November 12.
AppWizard
November 7, 2024
The ASI Alliance has introduced AIRIS, an AI system that learns autonomously within Minecraft, representing a significant step towards artificial general intelligence (AGI). AIRIS, which stands for Autonomous Intelligent Reinforcement Inferred Symbolism, is designed to adapt independently in a virtual environment, showcasing dynamic learning capabilities. Developed in collaboration with partners like SingularityNET, Fetch.ai, and Ocean Data, AIRIS utilizes a robust infrastructure to efficiently store and process information. It features real-time environmental adaptation, allowing it to navigate complex terrains and develop its own rules based on observations. AIRIS also aims to cultivate advanced interaction skills, including construction and object creation, potentially enabling collaborative tasks with other agents. The ultimate goal is to apply AIRIS in real-world scenarios, such as autonomous robots and intelligent assistants, across various sectors requiring adaptive learning and problem-solving abilities.
Winsage
October 28, 2024
Microsoft introduced Windows Agent Arena, a benchmark for testing AI agents in realistic Windows environments. Multi-modal AI agents currently have a performance success rate of 19.5%, compared to the average human performance rating of 74.5%. The benchmark includes over 150 diverse Windows tasks and allows for evaluations in Azure, potentially completing assessments in 20 minutes. Microsoft Research developed a multi-modal agent named Navi, which demonstrated a 19.5% success rate in tasks like converting a website to a PDF. Privacy and security concerns are highlighted, with Microsoft recalling the Windows Recall feature to enhance user security. The open-source framework promotes research and the development of reliable AI models, with an emphasis on responsible AI practices. Other companies, like Anthropic, are also advancing AI capabilities, exemplified by their new API "Computer Use" for human-like interactions with computers.
AppWizard
October 8, 2024
U.S. District Judge James Donato has ruled that Google must open its Android app store to competition, stemming from a case initiated by Epic Games, which claims Google's Play Store operates as an illegal monopoly. Epic Games seeks changes that would allow businesses to bypass Google’s app store and manage in-app purchases independently. While some requests have been granted, not all have been approved, and Google is expected to appeal. This ruling could significantly alter the Android ecosystem and foster innovation in app development. Additionally, Google faces other antitrust challenges, including a finding that its search engine operations violate anti-monopoly laws and a lawsuit regarding competition suppression in online advertising. These legal pressures could profoundly impact Google's business model and the technology sector as a whole.
Search