Character.AI launches Stories, which lets users create interactive fiction and is the company's "first new format created specifically" for users under 18 (Amanda Silberling/TechCrunch)

Investors are increasingly adopting a 'buy, fix, and hold' strategy, particularly with companies like Bending Spoons that specialize in acquiring distressed startups, often referred to as venture capital 'zombies'. This approach allows investors to revitalize these companies and potentially unlock their hidden value.

YouTube is currently testing a new feature aimed at allowing users to customize their home feed, addressing concerns about content organization and relevance. This initiative reflects the platform's commitment to enhancing user experience by providing more control over the content displayed.

Character AI has announced it will replace its open-ended chat features with interactive 'Stories' aimed at children, following a decision to restrict minors from using its chat functionalities. This shift is part of the company's efforts to create a safer and more engaging environment for younger users.

ChatGPT has integrated its voice mode into a single interface, allowing users to engage in both voice and text conversations simultaneously. This enhancement aims to create a more natural interaction experience as responses and visuals are displayed in real time.

Warner Music Group has signed a licensing agreement with AI music startup Suno, resolving a lawsuit that had been filed against the company. This agreement allows artists and songwriters to retain full control over the use of their names, images, voices, and compositions in AI-generated music.

Microsoft’s AI chatbot Copilot will no longer be available on WhatsApp starting January 15, following the platform's new policies that prohibit general-purpose AI chatbots from utilizing its services. This decision reflects WhatsApp's efforts to regulate the use of AI technologies on its platform.

Fleet Space has discovered a significant lithium deposit in Quebec using artificial intelligence and satellite technology, suggesting that the region may contain more lithium than previously estimated.

Speechify has introduced a new dictation tool with voice typing and voice assistant features in its Chrome extension, capitalizing on the recent advancements in speech recognition technology. This launch supports English and reflects the growing trend of voice detection tools in the past year.