Runway releases its first world model, adds native audio to latest video model

Runway has introduced the GWM-1 family of 'world models,' positioning itself as a serious competitor in the AI technology landscape alongside established players like Google and Nvidia. This move highlights Runway's ambitions to expand its influence beyond traditional Hollywood applications into broader technological realms.

Security vulnerabilities in the Freedom Chat app have led to the exposure of users' phone numbers and PINs, prompting the company's founder to announce a reset of user PINs and the release of a new version of the app in app stores.

Spoor's computer vision software is gaining significant interest for its ability to monitor bird populations and migration patterns, particularly benefiting wind farms and other industries. The technology aims to enhance environmental awareness and conservation efforts by providing accurate data on avian movements.

Eclipse Energy, a biotech startup, has developed a technology that utilizes microbes to convert idle oil wells into hydrogen production facilities. This innovative approach aims to repurpose abandoned oil infrastructure, potentially transforming energy production in the process.

Google is testing AI-powered article overviews on select publications' Google News pages, including Der Spiegel, El País, and The Washington Post, as part of a pilot program that compensates participating publishers. This initiative aims to enhance user engagement and streamline content consumption on the platform.

Spotify has announced the testing of a new feature called 'Prompted Playlists,' which allows users to write prompts for playlists that will generate unique song selections based on their previous listening behavior. This marks a significant shift in how users can interact with the platform's algorithm, providing them with more personalized music experiences.

Nvidia is reportedly testing new tracking software that could allow for the monitoring of the approximate location of its AI chips amid ongoing rumors of chip smuggling. This development comes as the company faces scrutiny over its supply chain and the potential illegal export of its products, particularly to China.

ChatGPT has emerged as the most downloaded free app in the U.S. iOS App Store for 2025, climbing from the fourth position in 2024. This significant achievement highlights the growing acceptance and reliance on AI-driven applications among users in the United States, with other popular apps including Threads, Google, TikTok, WhatsApp, and Instagram following closely behind.