Google’s new camera AI took center stage this week with a feature called Live for AI Mode. Found in test versions of their app, this tool lets people chat with AI through their phone’s camera in real time. Imagine pointing your phone at a pair of shoes and asking the AI about sizes or colors—this could become a powerful shopping tool. The system includes mute buttons, screen sharing, and instant transcripts, showing Google’s push to compete with projects like Gemini Live.

Microsoft made AI more affordable by launching Surface laptops starting at $799. These devices come with Snapdragon X Plus chips and full Copilot+ support, bringing AI tools like smart scheduling and document analysis to budget-conscious users. This move targets students and young workers, challenging Apple’s grip on the education market.

OpenAI faced drama as CEO Sam Altman backtracked on plans to become a fully for-profit company. After lawsuits and government scrutiny, the nonprofit board will stay in charge while exploring funding through a new public benefit corporation. Altman mentioned needing “trillions” to achieve OpenAI’s goals, sparking debates about who should control powerful AI systems.

In the UK, music labels and artists protested proposed laws letting AI train on copyrighted songs. They argue this undermines creativity and could flood markets with AI-made tracks. Meanwhile, Google Health introduced AMIE, an AI that reads X-rays and MRIs—a reminder of AI’s growing role beyond marketing.

Apple’s latest updates brought AI to everyday tasks. iPhones now have smarter photo editing that can remove objects seamlessly, while Macs offer predictive text that learns writing styles. These features, though not directly marketing tools, show how AI is blending into devices people use daily.

Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok are becoming full shopping hubs. Brands now use AI to suggest products during live streams or tag items in posts, letting users buy without leaving the app. Combined with a shift toward niche influencers over celebrities, this creates new ways for small businesses to reach loyal fans.

New privacy rules are forcing marketers to rethink data collection. With cookies fading, companies focus on getting info directly through surveys or loyalty programs—a trend that rewards brands building trust with customers.