Thousands of users worldwide are experiencing issues with Facebook and Instagram. Downdetector reports over 18,000 cases, with 59% struggling to access the app, 34% facing server connection problems, and 7% unable to log in. Error messages include "Something went wrong" and "Error loading media". NetBlocks, an internet monitoring group, confirms international outages, excluding country-level internet disruptions or filtering. The cause is unknown, and Meta has not commented. Users are advised to try alternative access methods or wait for a resolution. The outage affects users globally, with no estimated time for restoration.

Google's parent company, Alphabet, introduced AI Overviews to US users, enhancing AI capabilities across ventures. Updates include Gemini Pro 1.5 with increased token capacity for processing vast data sets. CEO Sundar Pichai revealed the enhancements during the annual I/O developer event. The AI Overviews aim to empower users in assessing Alphabet's advancements amid competition in the AI sector. Gemini Pro 1.5 now processes extensive textual and video data with expanded token capacity. Additionally, the Gemini 1.5 Flash prioritizes speed and resource efficiency. These updates reflect Google's commitment to innovation and improving user experience.

OpenAI introduces GPT-4o, a groundbreaking AI model revolutionizing text, voice, and vision interaction, reminiscent of the movie 'Her.' Capable of emotive conversation and real-time translations, it dazzles with math-solving prowess and facial emotion recognition. Netizens marvel at its resemblance to Samantha from the film. Despite occasional server issues, its potential to reshape communication and education garners praise. With plans for enhanced real-time conversation and multilingual capabilities, GPT-4o marks a significant leap in AI integration. Speculation mounts on its potential collaboration with Apple's Siri, hinting at a sci-fi future unfolding before our eyes.

Bumble founder Whitney Wolfe Herd caused a stir by suggesting AI could help people date. She said an "AI dating assistant" could learn about your insecurities, give tips on communicating better, and even virtually date for you by scanning for compatible matches. Her comments about AI proxies going on dates in your place immediately reminded people of the dystopian TV series 'Black Mirror.' While Herd framed it as fostering healthier relationships, critics blasted the idea as further removing human connection from dating. The concept reignited debates around the ethics of AI and society's overdependence on technology. As AI capabilities grow, Herd's proposal offers a glimpse into dating's potential future - for better or worse.

Surgeons at Chennai's GEM Hospital are now using Apple Vision Pro mixed reality headsets for laparoscopic surgeries. This cutting-edge technology enhances the surgical experience, providing real-time video and CT scans, and allowing for seamless expert consultation via FaceTime. Dr. R Parthasarathy, Surgical Gastroenterologist and COO of GEM Hospitals, praises the device for its ergonomic design, eliminating neck pain during long surgeries. With Apple Vision Pro, surgeons can enlarge internal organ views for greater detail and precision, making keyhole surgeries easier and more effective.

Google has introduced its Wallet app in India, allowing Android users to store digital information such as tickets, rewards cards, and digital car keys. The app aims to provide a seamless transition from physical to digital storage. Initially, 20 partners, including PVR Inox and Air India, have been onboarded, with more to be added later. Notably, Google Wallet will not be used for payments in India, with Google Pay remaining the primary payment platform. The Wallet app will focus on non-payment use cases, coexisting with Google Pay.

Japanese tech giants, DOCOMO, NTT, NEC, and Fujitsu have debuted a pioneering 6G wireless device, boasting mind-bending speeds of 100 Gbps, 500 times faster than 5G. This revolutionary leap taps into higher-frequency bands, promising unparalleled data transmission capabilities. While infrastructure setup remains a hurdle, the potential for transformative tech like mixed reality is immense. As the world anticipates widespread adoption, Japan's innovation heralds a new era of connectivity.

Sony introduces Reon Pocket 5, a cutting-edge wearable air conditioner designed to provide personalized climate control. Worn on the back of the neck, it offers five cooling and four warming levels, adaptable to various environments. Equipped with sensors for temperature, humidity, and motion, it ensures optimal comfort on-the-go. Controlled via the Reon Pocket App, it boasts a 17-hour battery life and pre-orders are open, starting shipping on May 15th. With a global expansion, it targets the UK market initially, priced at £139. Sony's innovation blends functionality with style, offering both business and casual air vent covers.

Ukraine's foreign ministry has unveiled Victoria, an AI-generated spokesperson. She will deliver official statements, saving time and resources for diplomats. Victoria's appearance and voice are modeled on singer Rosalie Nombre. Her name combines "victory" and the Ukrainian phrase for artificial intelligence. This innovative move aims to modernize the diplomatic service. Victoria will read statements written and verified by humans, ensuring accuracy and authenticity. This technological leap marks a first in the world of diplomacy.

Apple's smartphone shipments declined 10% in the first quarter of 2024, according to IDC data. Intensifying competition from Android makers, particularly Samsung, led to the drop. Samsung regained the top spot with a 20.8% market share, while Apple slipped to second with 17.3%. Xiaomi held the third position with 14.1% market share. Despite a strong performance in the previous quarter, Apple's sales declined, allowing Chinese brands like Huawei to gain ground. Global smartphone shipments still rose 7.8% to 289.4 million units in the quarter.