On Tuesday, August 5th, Grok introduced Valentine, a new AI companion designed for adult interactions. As an OnlyFans content creator accustomed to engaging with people, I was curious to experience Valentine as the recipient of stimulation, which proved both challenging and intriguing. Although the platform requires users to confirm they are 18+, access was granted by simply entering a birth year. Notably, the mature content companions like Valentine aren't available in 'kids mode,' yet there is no strict enforcement preventing users from bypassing this setting. For more details, refer to the full story on The Verge.
OpenAI is gearing up for a major announcement this Thursday that is widely expected to be the unveiling of the much-anticipated GPT-5 AI model. In a recent post on X, OpenAI cryptically promoted a “LIVE5TREAM THURSDAY 10AM PT,” cleverly replacing the “s” with a “5” in livestream. This hint, along with CEO Sam Altman’s recent posts referencing “ChatGPT 5” and excitement expressed by the head of applied research, points to an imminent launch. OpenAI is reportedly targeting early August for GPT-5’s debut, supported by preparations from partners like Microsoft who are readying server capacity. This event follows a significant week for OpenAI, which also introduced GPT-OSS, a free open-weight model operable on personal laptops.
Jurassic World: Archipelago is an exciting new expansion pack for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024, developed by Orbx. It allows pilots to explore five fictional islands—Isla Nublar, Sorna, Matanceros, Peña, and Tacaño—from the Jurassic Park and Jurassic World movies. The islands are populated with over 10 dinosaur species and feature locations from the films. The expansion will launch in late August or early September 2025 for Xbox and PC versions of the simulator and supports the Standard Edition available via Xbox Game Pass. Players can engage in flying challenges such as transporting VIPs, conducting tours, and flying over iconic park structures while encountering dinosaurs like T. rex, velociraptors, and pteranodons. Orbx is also working on compatibility with Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 and X-Plane 12.
Smart locks provide a convenient and secure solution for everyday access problems like locking yourself out, granting temporary access, or managing multiple doors remotely. With features like remote control, keyless entry, detailed access logs, and integration with smart home devices, smart locks enhance home security and automation. After testing over 30 smart locks, I've identified the best options tailored to different needs, from budget-friendly models to advanced fingerprint and facial recognition locks. Highlights include the Kwikset Halo Select for its flawless auto-unlock, Wyze Lock Bolt as an affordable choice, and Nuki Smart Lock for retrofit ease and broad compatibility. Other notable mentions feature locks supporting Apple Home Key, fingerprint access, video doorbell integration, and smart lever locks. Each lock varies in connectivity, battery life, design, and smart home integration, ensuring there is a suitable smart lock for every household and lifestyle.
Although Warner Bros. Games faces an uncertain future after recent studio closures and game cancellations, its back catalog remains a treasure trove for gamers. Humble Bundle offers an unbeatable deal until August 27th: 16 WB Games titles on Steam for only $12, supporting the Raiden Science Foundation. This collection includes fan-favorites like Middle-earth: Shadow of Mordor with its innovative Nemesis System, Batman: Arkham City, Batman: Arkham Asylum, Mad Max, Mortal Kombat 11, Mortal Kombat XL, Middle-earth: Shadow of War, and Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League. Most versions are the most content-rich editions, delivering hours of entertainment from WB’s diverse lineup.
Apple has announced an additional $100 billion investment to expand its manufacturing operations in the United States, responding to pressure from President Donald Trump to increase domestic production. This investment enhances Apple's ongoing plan to invest $500 billion in the US over the next four years and introduces a new American Manufacturing Program to bring more of Apple's supply chain and advanced manufacturing to the US. Key initiatives include a partnership with Corning to produce all iPhone and Apple Watch glass in Kentucky, collaboration with Samsung in Texas for innovative chip manufacturing, the launch of a Houston server factory in 2026, expansion of a data center in North Carolina, and establishment of a manufacturing academy in Michigan to train in advanced manufacturing techniques. Despite these efforts, it remains uncertain if these measures will satisfy Trump's demands for more US production amid ongoing tariffs and supply chain challenges.
Google's Gemini AI now features a 'guided learning' mode designed to help users truly comprehend the subject matter rather than simply providing answers. This mode acts as an interactive learning companion, offering step-by-step support through questions, images, videos, and quizzes. Developed with input from educators and learning experts, the feature aims to enhance understanding using proven learning science principles. Google is encouraging adoption by offering 12 months free access to its AI Pro Plan for students 18 and older in select countries and committing $1 billion to advance AI literacy and education initiatives over three years.
During a White House press conference about Apple's new US manufacturing initiatives, CEO Tim Cook gifted President Donald Trump a unique piece of iPhone glass from Corning mounted on a 24-karat gold base. The glass disc features the Apple logo, Trump's name on top, and Cook's signature with "Made in USA 2025" inscribed. Designed by a former Marine now at Apple, the gold base originates from Utah. The gift underscores Cook's close rapport with Trump, amidst Trump's push for US-based manufacturing and tariff threats to phone makers.
Google has launched a new feature within its Gemini AI chatbot called "Storybook," which allows users to create illustrated bedtime stories by simply describing them. The tool generates 10-page stories with short paragraphs that Gemini can read aloud, accompanied by custom illustrations. Users can choose specific art styles, including claymation, anime, and comics, or upload personal images for inspiration. While some generated stories showed quirky AI inconsistencies, such as odd character designs and misplaced elements, the feature performs well overall. Storybook is available worldwide on desktop and mobile in all languages supported by Gemini.
2025 is off to a great start for streaming enthusiasts, but subscribing to multiple services can be costly. Fortunately, you can save on your favorite streaming subscriptions through various deals and promotions offered by popular platforms. Many services provide free trials and student discounts, helping you cut costs without giving up your entertainment. Explore the best current deals on Peacock, Disney Plus, Hulu, Sling TV, Apple TV Plus, HBO Max, Netflix, YouTube TV, Paramount Plus with Showtime, Starz, and Amazon Prime Video. Additionally, carrier deals and bundles may offer further savings. Keep an eye out for these offers to enjoy streaming hits and originals at reduced rates.