Latest news with #Pi
Indian Express
3 days ago
- Business
- Indian Express
OpenAI loses Windsurf as Google swoops the AI startup's CEO, team, and tech for $2.4B
ChatGPT maker OpenAI has been trying to acquire the popular AI coding platform Windsurf by offering them $3 billion for quite some time now. But now, a report by The Verge claims that the deal has fallen apart after OpenAI's exclusivity period for its acquisition lapsed, allowing Windsurf to consider In an interesting turn of events, Google's DeepMind division has confirmed that it is now poaching Windsurf CEO Varun Mohan, co-founder Douglas Chen, along with a small group of staff. While Google isn't buying a stake in Windsurf and has clarified that it won't have any control over the company, as part of its deal, the tech giant is paying Windsurf $2.4 billion to get a nonexclusive license to some of its in-house developed technology. In a statement to Fortune, a Google spokesperson said, 'We're excited to welcome some top AI coding talent from Windsurf's team to Google DeepMind to advance our work in agentic coding.' Also, the AI startup's remaining 250-person team will continue working in the company with Windsurf's head of business – Jeff Wang, taking over as interim CEO. In a post on X, Wang told Windsurf's customers that its enterprise-grade AI coding tools aren't going anywhere. With Google poaching top talent from Windsurf, the tech giant's AI coding tools might get a significant boost. Like Anthropic, the company has been focusing more and more on developing AI coding applications to lure developers. As for Windsurf, the company might lose some of its momentum as its top talent is now heading over to Google. When Meta acquired Scale AI, the AI startup lost some of its customers. A few months after Microsoft poached Inflection's then-CEO, Mustafa Suleyman, the company announced that it no longer wanted to work on consumer-grade AI applications and was pivoting more towards enterprise customers. The news comes as a huge setback to ChatGPT maker OpenAI, which, in the last few months, has been struggling to retain its employees from tech giants like Google and Meta. According to the Wall Street Journal, tensions between OpenAI and Microsoft are reaching their high point. While the Sam Altman-led company wants to loosen Microsoft's grip over its AI technology and products, the ChatGPT developer still needs the Redmond-based tech giant's blessing if it wants to become a for-profit company and go public. With antitrust cases piling up against Meta, Apple and Google, big tech companies are playing it safe by poaching top talent instead of buying companies outright. This not only makes it cheaper and easier for them, but also attracts less attention from governments around the world. But Google isn't the only tech giant using these stealthy tactics. In March last year, Microsoft did the same thing with Mustafa Suleyman, who previously headed Google's DeepMind division to establish Inflection AI, the company behind the popular AI chatbot Pi.
Boston Globe
4 days ago
- Business
- Boston Globe
Tired of hair tantrums? This Boston mom has a fix.
Get Starting Point A guide through the most important stories of the morning, delivered Monday through Friday. Enter Email Sign Up Sign up for Parenting Unfiltered. Globe staff Advertisement #mc_embed_signup{background:#fff; clear:left; font:14px Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif; } /* Add your own Mailchimp form style overrides in your site stylesheet or in this style block. We recommend moving this block and the preceding CSS link to the HEAD of your HTML file. */ Subscribe * indicates required E-mail * She tried to cut the boys' hair herself in the family bathtub while they watched 'Paw Patrol.' This went poorly. She took them to walk-in, kid-focused franchises that didn't offer appointments, which ended in overstimulation and tears. 'It was traumatic. One person frankly just held my son's head down and started cutting his hair. We were treated like: 'Get in; get out,'' she says. 'In some of these places, it was just too much. It was sensory overload.' Pi finally took the tots to her own elegant grown-up salon, which was the last straw. 'It was fall, and so there were these beautiful handblown glass pumpkins everywhere. They almost broke them. It was horrific,' she says. Advertisement Danni Pi launched Mayne after too many stressful salon visits with her sons. Handout Pi saw an opportunity, and she had the right experience: She's the former chief operating officer of Rowan, a franchise dedicated to safe, kid-friendly ear piercing, done by nurses. Why not create the same stress-free concept, but for kids' tresses? 'My theory is: Parents today want more thoughtful, experience-driven services for their kids,' she says. 'We always greet customers by saying, 'What are we celebrating today?' Because we believe a haircut is a celebration. It's a milestone.' At Mayne, every kid gets a ribbon if they get their hair styled, or they can get their hair sprayed their favorite (washable) color. A nursing-friendly waiting area is stocked with toys, and there's a separate reading nook where families — even those without appointments, who just want to check out the space — can drop in to browse. 'One customer came in and had just had her third boy, who was literally 3 weeks old. She said, 'This is my first outing, and this space made it possible.' She was feeding her baby on our reading nook steps, and her two boys were getting cuts, and she was just ecstatic. It made me so happy. People see the value in it,' Pi says. As for the cuts themselves? Pi frames the experience like a first dentist appointment: ease in, and go slow. 'So many kids feel scared when they approach the idea of a haircut, especially a first haircut. Look at what pediatric dentistry has done in the last couple of years. They've built a whole experience around: stop by for your first appointment; not too much happens. You build a trust with your dentist, and from there, you can take the next step. In some ways, I mirror the service and the experience to be like that. We never force a kid to get a haircut,' she says. Advertisement If a kid is scared, they can leave: no charge. Otherwise, kids arrive and play for a bit, at a drawing table, in a play tent, or with a sensory-friendly toy bin. 'One of the things that we find is super helpful for kids who are fussy or squirmy, especially those who don't like the feeling of hair on their back, is to give them toys where they can focus on the sensory effect in front of them. We have a basket of little fish and dragons, held in a cup. It's one way to calm them down,' she says. Stylists greet kids on their knees, at eye level. Each appointment is booked for 35 or so minutes, enough time for squirming and negotiations. 'We feel like we're in this as a partnership, and we're making an investment in you coming back. So let them play; let them use the space as a reading space. Let them get comfortable in the space or with our stylist, and so the next time they come, they're a little more likely to be able to get that cut,' Pi says. (She recommends first-timers visit on a weekday, when they're less busy.) As for the styles: Stylists are trained in curly hair and braids, as well as color extensions and tinsel, plus stickier stuff: chlorine removal and conditioning for swimmers, plus detangling. They're also open for makeover parties. Good hair stylists are hard to find. Ones who like kids? Even tougher. Advertisement 'I felt that hair cutting and training — that is actually easy. But I was looking for someone who wanted to engage with kids to build their self-confidence and self-expression. And I've got to say: I met a lot of highly talented people who just didn't have that,' she says. 'You can't train people for that desire.' At Rowan, she recruited at nursing schools. This time, she recruited at beauty schools, wading through about 200 applications until she settled on three stylists. As such, current hours are somewhat limited: They're open from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday, and from 9 a.m. until 6 p.m. Friday through Sunday. The salon is outfitted with stools where parents can sit next to their child; the stylist will show them each tool they plan to use before starting the process. 'If it's a water spray bottle, we will literally spray it on ourselves with the parents to show the kid: 'Hey, we know this is something you haven't seen before. This may be scary to you, but let me show you that there is nothing to be scared of,'' Pi says. Cuts are $45, geared to toddlers 9 months and up; subscriptions for a monthly cut are $30. Storytimes, hosted by stylists, are free. Storytime at Mayne. Handout 'We see it as a way to give the space back to the community a bit and to hopefully get kiddos to enjoy the space, to feel comfortable in the space, so when they're ready to get a haircut, we're already starting from step five instead of step one,' Pi says. Mayne, 24 Union Park St., Boston. 646-715-3194, Advertisement Kara Baskin can be reached at
Time of India
03-07-2025
- General
- Time of India
Neptune Retrograde in Pisces: These Zodiac Signs Will Feel Lost and Disconnected
There are retrogrades that simply slow us down, and then there are retrogrades that ask us to stop, feel, and re-evaluate everything we thought was true. Neptune turning retrograde in Pisces on July 5, 2025, at 02:58 AM is one such moment. It doesn't demand instant action, but it will strip away fantasy, force clarity, and leave us staring into the emotional mirror we've been avoiding. Neptune retrograde is not a punishment. It is a wake-up call. It feels subtle, almost invisible on the surface. But beneath, it moves oceans inside you. When Saturn is also in Pisces, as it is now, the pressure to discern truth from illusion becomes almost unbearable. Saturn brings form, boundaries, and karmic lessons; Neptune dissolves, dreams, and deceives. Together in Pisces—the sign of the mystic, the empath, the dreamer—they create a field where spiritual tiredness, emotional fog, and inner disconnection rise like mist from within. While all zodiac signs will feel this retrograde on some level, five signs are most likely to feel spiritually and emotionally adrift during this time. Whether due to Neptune's strong influence in their chart or their natural sensitivity to Piscean waters, these signs will be challenged to find footing in an invisible landscape. But let me be clear: feeling lost is not failure. It is the beginning of conscious realignment. Pisces (Feb 19 – Mar 20) You are the native sign of both Neptune and Pisces, which makes this transit intensely personal. When Neptune stations retrograde in your sign—and Saturn is watching close by—you will feel like the veil is lifting. The problem is, you may not be ready to see what's underneath. Dreams you've clung to, identities you've worn, or stories you've believed about your spiritual path might dissolve. You may feel disconnected from your usual sources of inspiration, prayer, or even your emotional depth. What to do: This is not the time to escape through fantasy, addictions, or overgiving. Instead, root down into simple rituals: daily journaling, spiritual hygiene, grounding meditations. Let the illusions fade without panic. The clarity you seek isn't gone; it's just emerging slowly. Gemini (May 21 – Jun 20) For Gemini, the emotional heaviness of Neptune retrograde feels suffocating. As a sign ruled by Mercury, you thrive on logic, words, and connections. But Neptune doesn't speak in facts; it speaks in feelings, dreams, and silences. During this retrograde, your mind may race to find explanations, only to find none. Your usual ability to multitask and stay socially plugged in will feel more like noise than nourishment. What to do: Step back. Not everything has to be understood or processed intellectually. Accept that some things will feel "off" without being clearly wrong. Prioritise solitude and unplug from social overstimulation. Let your inner voice rise through the quiet. Virgo (Aug 23 – Sept 22) Virgo, your strength is in order, service, and clarity. Neptune retrograde in your opposite sign, Pisces, creates direct tension in your relationships and your sense of control. You might feel like your efforts are unseen, your love unreciprocated, or your plans constantly shifting. This can leave you feeling disconnected from others and even from your own intuition. What to do: Resist the urge to fix everything, including yourself. This retrograde is teaching you that not all problems are meant to be solved; some are meant to be surrendered. Spend time in nature, create without an agenda, and allow relationships to unfold without managing every detail. Sagittarius (Nov 22 – Dec 21) Sagittarius, your eternal optimism may take a hit during Neptune retrograde. Your ruling planet, Jupiter, wants expansion, clarity, and belief. Neptune, however, brings fog, doubt, and quiet internal deconstruction. You may start questioning your purpose, your faith, or your life direction, especially when old beliefs no longer fit. What to do: Don't rush to replace doubt with answers. Instead, explore your inner world. Read poetry, revisit spiritual texts, or travel inward through reflection. This period is asking you to reshape your belief systems from lived experience, not just idealism. Cancer (June 21 – July 22) Cancer, you live through emotion and connection. But during Neptune retrograde, your emotional radar might feel scrambled. You could feel misunderstood, overly sensitive, or deeply nostalgic for people and feelings that are no longer aligned with your current self. This can feel like you're floating without an anchor. What to do: Anchor within. Create a quiet emotional space that's just for you. Limit energy leaks from people who take without returning. Engage in soul-nourishing activities like cooking, water rituals, or connecting with your ancestral roots. Let the ocean of your emotions settle without rushing to swim. The Collective Message Neptune retrograde is not here to destroy, but to deconstruct illusions. It removes false light so true clarity can shine. Feeling disconnected, lost, or confused during this time is not a weakness—it's a spiritual signal. It's the soul's way of saying: "You're ready to see what you've been pretending not to see." Saturn's presence in Pisces adds gravity to Neptune's dissolving magic. It means we can't float endlessly anymore. We must choose which dreams to build and which illusions to release. If you feel tired, it's because you've outgrown a version of yourself. If you feel disconnected, it's because a deeper reconnection is beginning. Let this retrograde guide you inward. Not all answers are outside. Not all signs come in bright lights. Sometimes, the most important shift happens in silence. Discover everything about astrology at the Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces .
Mint
01-07-2025
- Mint
Can chatbots really understand you? Meet Pi, an emotionally intelligent AI that wants to listen and help
For years, AI chatbots have been racing to sound more human, but most still struggle to move beyond robotic politeness or scripted empathy. Now, another contender is stepping into the spotlight: Pi, an emotionally intelligent chatbot from Inflection AI, designed to make conversations feel less like talking to a machine and more like confiding in a thoughtful friend. It tries to offer a more personal and empathetic experience, positioning itself as a different kind of AI companion compared to popular tools like ChatGPT. Pi isn't just another chatbot for answering trivia or writing emails. Its core mission is to support users emotionally, offering gentle prompts, reflective questions, and a listening ear. The interface is inviting, blending artistic visuals with a choice of expressive voices, giving every conversation a touch of personality. Unlike many AI tools that focus on productivity or technical tasks, Pi is all about well-being. It can help users process a tough day, practice giving difficult feedback, or simply check in with their feelings - Pi claims to help with all. The interface includes options for voice interaction and AI-generated art, which add some personality and creativity to the experience, but the core interaction remains text-based. Pi's approach to conversation is refreshingly different. Instead of bombarding users with information or advice, it listens, remembers past chats, and responds with empathy. The chatbot encourages self-reflection, nudging users to think deeper about their emotions and goals, rather than rushing to solve problems. Voice interaction is a standout feature, adding warmth and nuance to each reply. Pi also generates creative art to accompany chats, making the experience feel more engaging and less transactional. While ChatGPT is known for its versatility, handling everything from coding to content creation, Pi carves out its own space as a companion for emotional support and personal growth. Here's how they compare: Aspect Pi (Inflection AI) ChatGPT (OpenAI) Main strength Emotional intelligence, support Technical tasks, creativity Conversation style Warm, reflective, supportive Informative, adaptive Features Voice, art, journaling prompts Coding, research, plugins Best For Self-reflection, tough talks Productivity, content, coding Pi doesn't try to outdo ChatGPT on technical grounds. Instead, it focuses on what many users crave: a safe space to talk, reflect, and be heard. For users seeking detailed, task-oriented AI help, Pi's limited feature set may be a drawback. The thrill of using Pi comes from its ability to make digital conversations feel genuinely caring. For anyone tired of chatbots that feel like digital assistants, Pi offers a new kind of interaction - one where the AI listens, remembers, and responds with genuine warmth. It's not for everyone. If you need a research assistant or want to build an app, Pi won't compete with the likes of ChatGPT or Gemini. But for journaling, practicing hard conversations, or simply having a gentle check-in, Pi is a breath of fresh air. Privacy is another big draw. Pi has scored well in independent studies for keeping user data safe, which is increasingly important as more people turn to AI for personal support.
Time Business News
30-06-2025
- Time Business News
How to Use Pi Coin on AP33 and Win Big: A Beginner's Guide to Pi Crypto Deposits
Introduction With the rising popularity of decentralized finance and digital currencies, Pi cryptocurrency has gained massive attention for its unique mining approach and mobile-first ecosystem. As this new form of digital money evolves, more platforms are beginning to accept Pi Coin—including AP33, a crypto-focused gaming and entertainment site offering users a chance to win big, even up to 1 Bitcoin. If you're new to the world of Pi crypto or are curious about using your Pi Coin on AP33, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from making deposits to maximizing your potential rewards. Pi Coin is the native token of the Pi Network, a mobile-based cryptocurrency project founded by Stanford graduates. Unlike traditional cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum, Pi allows users to mine coins directly from their smartphones without draining battery or data. Why Pi Is Unique: Mobile mining without high energy costs without high energy costs Community-driven validation and security validation and security Still in development, meaning early adopters may benefit the most While it's still in the enclosed mainnet phase, platforms like AP33 are among the first to adopt it for real use cases. AP33 is an online crypto gaming and entertainment platform where users can deposit cryptocurrencies—including Pi Coin—to participate in games and sweepstakes for big rewards. The platform has recently launched a special promotion, allowing users to deposit with Pi and win up to 1 BTC. Why Use AP33 with Pi Coin? Real-world use case for your mined Pi for your mined Pi Zero deposit fees for Pi crypto for Pi crypto Opportunity to win Bitcoin and other valuable prizes and other valuable prizes User-friendly interface for beginners Visit AP33 and sign up using your email or social media account. Make sure you verify your identity if required for withdrawals. Ensure your Pi Browser app is installed and your wallet is set up. You'll need your wallet address to deposit Pi Coin. Once logged in to AP33, go to the 'Deposit' section and choose the Pi cryptocurrency option. Follow the on-screen instructions to initiate the transfer. Open your Pi Wallet in the Pi Browser and transfer the desired amount to the AP33-provided wallet address. Confirm the transaction. After confirmation, your AP33 account balance will reflect your Pi deposit. Now you're ready to start playing and potentially win up to 1 BTC. Start Small : Test the waters with a small amount of Pi before depositing more. : Test the waters with a small amount of Pi before depositing more. Look for Promotions : AP33 frequently offers deposit bonuses and free spins. : AP33 frequently offers deposit bonuses and free spins. Understand Game Rules : Read game guides to improve your odds. : Read game guides to improve your odds. Stay Updated: Follow AP33 and Pi Network on social media for new events. While Pi crypto is not yet listed on major exchanges, its utility is growing. Using it on AP33 gives early adopters a practical way to use their coins and potentially gain massive rewards, like Bitcoin. Think of AP33 as a testing ground for Pi Coin's real-world applications. And with the chance to win big while exploring a new ecosystem, it's a win-win. The Pi Network is still evolving, but its community continues to expand, and use cases like AP33 make it increasingly relevant. If you're one of the millions who've mined Pi Coin on your phone, why not put it to use? With just a few steps, you can deposit your Pi crypto on AP33 and get a chance to win significant prizes—including 1 full Bitcoin. Now is the perfect time to turn your idle Pi Coin into real opportunities. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
