From smart to classic: Fossil Group's moves away from smartwatches

Photo: Fossil

Fossil Group has officially exited the smartwatch market, signalling a strategic shift towards focusing on its core strengths in traditional watches, jewelry, and leather goods. In an announcement, Fossil spokesperson Amanda Castelli explained the decision, citing the significant evolution of the smartwatch landscape in recent years.

The company, known for its prolific production of Wear OS smartwatches, has decided to channel its resources into areas that offer strong growth opportunities. Castelli stated, "Fossil Group is redirecting resources to support our core strength and the core segments of our business that continue to provide strong growth opportunities for us: designing and distributing exciting traditional watches, jewelry, and leather goods under our own as well as licensed brand names."

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Legal battle erupts over AI-generated George Carlin comedy special

Image: YouTube / George Carlin

George Carlin's estate has filed a lawsuit against the producers of a one-hour comedy special featuring an AI-generated version of the late comedian, according to NBC News. Carlin's estate, including daughter Kelly Carlin, alleges that the online media platform Dudesy violated the performer's right to publicity and infringed upon copyright. 

The video is titled "George Carlin: I'm Glad I'm Dead," and features an hour of new "material" from the comedian who died in 2008. Despite its name and premise, the AI replication falls short of expectations. Limited to audio, the imitation lacks the distinct voice and comedic brilliance associated with Carlin. It essentially amounts to a subpar impersonation, featuring predictable punchlines and an absence of the comedian's trademark wordplay and righteous fury.

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Revolutionizing Pixels: A closer look at Google's latest feature drop

Photo: Google

Google's latest announcement goes beyond introducing a fresh colour for the Pixel 8 series. In addition to this, the company unveils its newest feature drop, showcasing the innovative Circle to Search feature. Originally spotted on Samsung's Galaxy S24, this functionality will soon be available on the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, with its launch scheduled for January 31, coinciding with the release date of Samsung's S24 lineup. To use Circle to Search, long press the home button or navigation bar and encircle any item on your phone screen. Google will then provide relevant information about the selected content. 

This update also enhances the use of the Pixel 8 Pro's built-in thermometer. You can now measure body temperature, a feature described by Google as "medical-grade." This suggests that Google likely obtained FDA clearance for this specific use. Adding a practical application for the thermometer somewhat eliminates its earlier puzzling presence in the phone. 

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The Pixel 8's mint green option comes to Canada, won't be available for the Pixel 8 Pro

Photo: Google

Google recently announced the launch of a refreshing mint green colour option for the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro. While the new shade offers a more subtle alternative compared to the vibrant "bay" blue 8 Pro, it brings a touch of novelty for enthusiasts of the compact Pixel 8. Until now, the regular Pixel 8 has been confined to standard colour choices since its initial release in October.

It's worth noting that the mint hue is exclusively available with the base 128GB storage variant. Those seeking higher storage capacities will have to stick with the original colour selections. In Canada, the mint colour option is limited to the Pixel 8 model. You can buy it from the Google Store for $949. The Pixel 8 is also offered in the colours Hazel, Obsidian, and Rose. And it's currently available at a discounted price of $749.

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