In tech updates, Instagram Threads is introducing a feature for users to customize their feed, while a Japanese billionaire has canceled a private lunar mission with SpaceX. Shopify has acquired Checkout Blocks to enhance customer experience, and Cloudera has acquired Verta to add AI capabilities to its data platform. Lastly, Spotify is increasing its premium pricing in the U.S. to $11.99 per month.
Key takeaways:
- OpenAI’s chatbot ChatGPT has experienced a major outage, affecting several users globally. The company has identified the bug and is working on a fix.
- Sékr, a startup for outdoor enthusiasts and campers, is launching a new AI tool for planning road trips called Copilot.
- Microsoft’s education-focused cloud productivity suite, Microsoft 365 Education, is facing investigation in the European Union over privacy concerns.
- Instagram is testing 'unskippable' ads, potentially changing the user experience to be more like the free version of YouTube.