Meta's Scale AI stake buyout spotlights other major deals amid regulatory risks
June 12 (Reuters) - Meta has finalized a $14.3 billion purchase of a 49% stake in data labeling startup Scale AI, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Scale AI said late on Thursday that the deal would value it at $29 billion and that the startup's chief executive, Alexandr Wang, would join Meta to head a new team focused on artificial general intelligence, the latest twist in Silicon Valley's race toward the cutting-edge technology.
Founded in 2004 by CEO Mark Zuckerberg and his fellow Harvard University students and originally called "TheFacebook", the company dropped "The" from its name after securing the Facebook.com domain in 2005. It rebranded as Meta Platforms in 2021.
The Scale AI deal comes when Meta, which has a market value of $1.77 trillion, contends with antitrust scrutiny surrounding its acquisitions of WhatsApp and Instagram.
Here are Meta's major deals over the years:
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The Sun
an hour ago
- The Sun
Nintendo Switch 2 is THE fastest-selling console of all time – it's worth upgrading for major new game and Joy-Con trick
Jamie Harris, Assistant Technology and Science Editor Published: Invalid Date, NINTENDO Switch 2 - it's the game console everyone is talking about. People queued overnight to get hold of the latest gadget and it's now sold out in many stores. 5 5 Nintendo has revealed that more than 3.5million units have been sold worldwide in the first four days since launch. This makes it the company's fastest selling debut ever - but experts say it's also the fastest selling console of all time too. As The Sun's Assistant Technology and Science Editor I had the privilege to get a taster of the Switch 2 weeks before general release in a top secret event - but that experience only scratched the surface. I received a Switch 2 to review just before general release and have been playing away at it ever since. And I can wholeheartedly say it is well worth upgrading for. While there is a lot of familiar elements, the Switch 2 feels like a natural, big, fitting, fresh-faced sibling to the first Switch. There is nothing radically different about the new console - and rightly so, the Switch is a great piece of kit that deserves evolution over revolution. Here's how I found my first week with the Switch 2. Setting up Getting started with the Switch 2 is pretty easy even if you already own a Switch. In fact, you can transfer any games and the save data from your first Switch to the new one, so long as they're both connected to Wi-Fi and they're close by. The user interface looks practically the same, with a few additions like GameChat. Using GameChat The ability to chat with friends in video form seems like a natural way forward for Nintendo in the ever-growing world of online gaming. GameChat makes that possible with supported games - and it can be enjoyed for free without a Nintendo Switch Online subscription by everyone until the end of March 2026. Nintendo has its own camera accessory which you can buy separately but "typical third-party cameras should also work," the firm says. I managed to give it a go on the new Mario Kart World game with a group of other journalists eager to try it all out. Everything we know so far about the Nintendo Switch 2 Quality will obviously depend on your broadband connection but in our game of four we took the wild Mario racer title to the next level, with the ability to cheer - or yell - at each other as we competed for that unpredictable finish line. It adds a whole new layer of excitement to what is already a pretty thrilling game - and it's amusing to see our heads bobbing around above our cars, as well as giving me a better idea of who I should target with my weapons. There are lots of pretty tight safety controls for GameChat too, many of which can be accessed in the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app. 5 Mario Kart World I don't want this to descend into a Mario Kart World review, but this is a key launch title after all. Aside from GameChat I'm loving new features like the ability to free roam, playing loads of mini games along the way, it's something Nintendo continues to do so well. Mario Kart World is also an opportunity for me to talk about the graphic and performance improvements too. There is a noticeable huge boost to the visuals here making everything appear super clear. The handheld Switch 2 has a larger 1080p screen which looks gorgeous and you can play in up to 4K resolution when docked to a TV with frame rates up to 120 fps. Joy-Con 5 The Joy-Cons are arguably the biggest hardware upgrade. Gone are those fiddly silde-in controllers and now it's all magnetic. They snap into place with ease and come off simply by pressing a button on the back. What's more, your old Joy-Cons from the first Switch need not gather dust in a draw. You can connect these too for when you're playing in groups, as I did with Mario Kart World when I had friends over. I'm glad Nintendo is making an effort to keep older kit supported where possible, rather than fleecing people out of money to buy new extra Joy-Cons. You can even use the Joy-Cons as a mouse, with some mini-games to test it on in the Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour and I absolutely loved. THE DOWNSIDES For all it's glory, there are some downsides to the Switch 2 - though some will be addressed soon. Firstly, the lack of launch title exclusives. As much as I love Mario Kart World, it was the only big new game to come for the Switch 2 - the other, Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour, doesn't really count as it's a bit of a taster to get used to the console. The next big title to come is Donkey Kong Bananza in July. My other gripe is the cost for games now too, with the Mario Kart World coming in at £66.99 for the digital download alone. And finally, battery. Nintendo says you can expect to get approximately two to 6.5 hours out of the Switch 2, which aligns with my experience testing the console. This is a drop from the Switch OLED with approximately 4.5 to nine hours. Verdict The shortcomings listed above are pretty limited. On the whole, the Switch 2 is a worthy successor of an already great console. Nintendo proves once again that you don't need fancy graphics and huge cinematic games to make a good console. All prices in this article were correct at the time of writing, but may have since changed. Always do your own research before making any purchase.
Geeky Gadgets
an hour ago
- Geeky Gadgets
The Future of Apple Watch is HERE: 15 watchOS 26 Features You Won't Believe
Apple has unveiled the first beta of watchOS 26, offering a preview of the next evolution for the Apple Watch. This update introduces 15 notable features, emphasizing improvements in the user interface, advanced health and fitness tracking, app performance, and customization. While still in its early stages, this beta hints at a more refined and versatile Apple Watch experience. The video below from Zollotech gives us more details on the new watchOS 26 beta.1 Watch this video on YouTube. Refined User Interface Enhancements The user interface in watchOS 26 Beta 1 has been thoughtfully redesigned to deliver a smoother and more intuitive experience. Navigation has been optimized for faster and more efficient transitions between screens, making sure that interactions feel seamless. You'll notice improved responsiveness when swiping, tapping, or scrolling, making tasks like checking notifications or launching apps more effortless. These updates aim to enhance usability, making sure the Apple Watch remains a practical and user-friendly device. Advanced Health Tracking Features Health tracking continues to be a core focus of the Apple Watch, and watchOS 26 Beta 1 introduces several new features to elevate its capabilities. The update includes additional metrics to monitor critical health indicators, such as: Heart rate variability , offering insights into your cardiovascular health , offering insights into your cardiovascular health Blood oxygen levels , providing a clearer picture of your respiratory efficiency , providing a clearer picture of your respiratory efficiency Sleep patterns, with detailed analysis of sleep stages The enhanced sleep tracking feature now delivers actionable insights, helping you optimize your rest and recovery. These updates empower users to make more informed decisions about their overall health and well-being, making the Apple Watch an even more valuable tool for personal wellness. Enhanced Fitness Tracking for Active Lifestyles Fitness enthusiasts will appreciate the new workout modes and tracking improvements introduced in watchOS 26 Beta 1. The update includes: Hiking with elevation tracking , ideal for outdoor adventurers , ideal for outdoor adventurers Customizable interval training, allowing you to tailor workouts to your goals Additionally, GPS accuracy has been significantly improved, making sure that outdoor activities such as running, cycling, or hiking are tracked with greater precision. The Activity app now provides more comprehensive post-workout summaries, offering a clearer and more detailed view of your performance and progress. These enhancements make the Apple Watch an indispensable companion for achieving fitness goals. Improved App Performance and Stability Apple has prioritized app performance and reliability in watchOS 26 Beta 1. Apps now launch faster, and interactions feel smoother, minimizing any delays that could disrupt your experience. Background processes have been optimized to enhance battery efficiency, making sure that your Apple Watch remains dependable throughout the day, even during intensive use. These improvements contribute to a more seamless and enjoyable user experience, reinforcing the Apple Watch's role as a reliable daily tool. Expanded Customization Options Personalization takes a significant step forward in watchOS 26 Beta 1. The update introduces new watch face designs and additional complications, allowing you to display the information that matters most to you. Whether you prioritize fitness metrics, calendar events, or weather updates, these new options make it easier to tailor your watch face to your needs. The settings menu has also been reorganized for greater clarity, allowing you to adjust preferences more efficiently. These updates ensure that your Apple Watch feels uniquely yours, reflecting your individual style and priorities. New Productivity and Communication Tools watchOS 26 Beta 1 introduces tools designed to enhance productivity and streamline communication. A new task manager allows you to organize and track your to-do lists directly from your wrist, while improved calendar integration helps you stay on top of your schedule. Communication tools have also been upgraded, with enhanced messaging and call-handling capabilities. For instance, dictation accuracy has been improved, making it easier to send messages quickly and efficiently. These features aim to make the Apple Watch an even more integral part of your daily workflow. What to Expect from the Beta Experience As with any beta release, watchOS 26 Beta 1 is a work in progress. While the new features are promising, users may encounter occasional bugs or inconsistencies. These issues are expected to be addressed in subsequent beta updates, leading to a polished final release. For those eager to explore the latest advancements, the beta offers an exciting glimpse into the future of the Apple Watch, even as it continues to evolve. Elevating the Apple Watch Experience watchOS 26 Beta 1 showcases a range of updates designed to enhance the functionality and personalization of the Apple Watch. From a more intuitive user interface to advanced health and fitness tracking, improved app performance, and expanded customization options, this update aims to make the Apple Watch even more versatile and indispensable. Whether you're focused on productivity, communication, or personal wellness, these features highlight the potential of the Apple Watch to seamlessly integrate into and elevate your daily life. Enhance your knowledge on watchOS 26 Beta 1 by exploring a selection of articles and guides on the subject. Source & Image Credit: zollotech Filed Under: Apple, Gadgets News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
The Guardian
an hour ago
- The Guardian
UK broadcasters hail rare win over Netflix in battle for streaming ads
Shows such as Netflix's TV history-making Adolescence and Disney's romp Rivals are among the latest hits to continue the subscriber juggernaut, as the US streamers continue to mount pressure on UK TV broadcasters. However, research reveals that a new breed of viewers being banked on to drive their next era of growth are watching up to 40% less content on some services, giving traditional broadcasters hope that their own streaming services will not ultimately be outmuscled in the battle over the rapidly growing £1bn-plus streaming ad market. It has been two and a half years since Netflix reversed its resistance to advertising, leading the charge to tap a new market as subscriber growth petered out and the cost of living crisis made consumers more open to paying less in return for seeing ads. The strategy has helped breathe life into stalling subscription growth. Netflix added the most customers in a quarter in its history in the final three months of 2024, with 55% choosing its ad-supported package. About a third of its 300 million-strong global subscriber base are now watching with ads. Disney+ followed suit in late 2022 and has since amassed 157 million ad-tier subscribers, including its US-only ESPN and Hulu services. And in February last year, Amazon started automatically introducing ads to the 200 million potential monthly viewers of Prime Video, requiring customers to pay if they wanted an ad-free experience. However, research into streaming households shows that homes that watch with ads are 'lighter' viewers, in the words of one media agency executive, compared with those who pay for higher-priced, ad-free packages. A snapshot of UK streaming in the fourth quarter of 2024 showed that Netflix households with advertising-supported subscriptions watched an average of 22 minutes less content a day than those with an ad-free subscription, a difference of almost 22%. Netflix is estimated to have about 17.6 million subscribers in total in the UK, of whom just over 4 million are on an ad-supported package, according to Ampere Analysis. At Amazon's Prime Video, which is estimated to have about 12 million UK users, the same trend has emerged. Viewers who accepted ads watched an average of 23 minutes less content a day than those who had opted to pay for an ad-free experience – a difference of 44%. While viewing minutes were not available for Disney+ UK subscribers, the research showed it had the narrowest gap, with those on ad-supported accounts watching just five fewer minutes of content a day on average than those paying for an ad-free subscription. Matt Ross, the chief analytics officer at the streaming research firm Digital i, says two distinct types of viewer have emerged, but adds that lower levels of viewing in ad-supported households is partly because those subscriptions also typically offer access on fewer devices. 'We've seen that more engaged viewers typically opt for ad-free tiers, valuing the uninterrupted experience they provide,' Ross says. 'More premium plans offer multiple simultaneous streams, which appeals especially to larger households and families. This combination of premium features and flexibility often results in higher daily activity for ad-free plans.' Nevertheless, the phenomenon of 'light viewers' will be grasped by UK broadcasters trying to stop the deep-pocketed US giants conquering the streaming advertising market in the same way as they have the world of paid subscriptions. 'The appeal of the global streamers' ad tiers to advertisers doesn't stack up against the streaming services offered by British broadcasters,' says one senior TV industry executive. Certainly in the UK, at least, the drive into advertising by the big US streamers has had a mixed reception from the media agencies that buy commercial space for brands. Netflix started with a gung-ho attitude, buoyed up by the success it had had building a huge paid subscriber base and the belief advertisers would leap at the chance to be able to place commercials in its mega-hits for the first time. However, it demanded almost 50% more than ITV or Channel 4's services charge for advertising, alongside a hefty commitment to a minimum spend, despite initially only having a small audience and extremely limited ability to target ads. 'The rollout was a disaster,' says the chief executive of one media agency. 'Take-up was underwhelming, to say the least. They had to try again six months later and lost their lead over rivals and are now behind the curve in terms of pricing, data and reach versus, say, Amazon.' Amazon charges about the same as the public service broadcasters' streaming services, while Disney+ charges more, despite having the smallest base of the big three US streamers, a situation the media executive describes as a 'mad outlier, given their volume'. Sign up to Business Today Get set for the working day – we'll point you to all the business news and analysis you need every morning after newsletter promotion Last month Netflix rung the changes, announcing that Warren Dias, the head of UK's ad sales, was to leave after two years in the post. The world's biggest and most profitable streaming service has acknowledged it is still a newbie when it comes to the ad market. 'I think you can say that 2025 is the year that we transition from crawl to walk,' Greg Peters, the co-chief executive of Netflix, said in a recent call with analysts. Peters said overall viewing hours per subscriber on its ads plans internationally was similar to those on its standard non-ad plans, and that it expected to double advertising income this year as it focuses on improving ad targeting for brands. The company launched its in-house ad-tech platform in the US in April and intends to start rolling it out to other markets in the coming months. While UK broadcasters feel the tentative start by the US giants has given them the upper hand in the British streaming advertising, which is putting further pressure on the shrinking £3.58bn traditional TV ad market, there is a sense of foreboding that history may ultimately repeat itself. 'We were successful and revolutionised TV viewing,' says Damien Bernet, the vice-president of ad sales for the EMEA region at Netflix. 'We believe we are going to be able to do the same for ads.' More people visit and watch Netflix than any other streaming service in the UK, and in March it made TV history with Adolescence becoming the first programme on a streaming platform to top the weekly audience charts of all shows aired in Britain. In February, 65% of 18- to 64-year-old internet users accessed Netflix, compared with 59% for the BBC's iPlayer, 48% for Prime Video, 46% for ITVX and 34% for Channel 4's streaming service, according to survey data from Ampere Analysis. The US streamers' ad tier strategies have reignited overall growth, are rapidly increasing the scale and attractiveness of the offering for advertisers, and the cheaper pricing has made users more 'sticky' and less likely to think about cancelling. 'Fundamentally, advertising is a scale game, and in that regard many of the streamers are only just getting started,' says Richard Broughton, a director at Ampere. 'UK and European broadcasters will be far from complacent, given the competition they have faced for viewers over the past decade, but they have only a narrow window to batten down the hatches before they start to feel more pressure across their advertiser base too.'
