Latest news with #Sora
Hans India
5 days ago
- Hans India
Veo 3 Video AI Launch: Pakistan Leads Ahead of India and EU
Pakistan is one of the first countries to get access to Google's new AI video tool, Veo 3, just days after its launch in the U.S. The update was shared on May 24, 2025, as Google made the tool available in 71 more countries. Surprisingly, India and European Union countries are not included in this rollout, while Pakistan is already using the tool. What Is Veo 3? Veo 3 is an advanced AI model from Google Labs that lets users create videos with background audio. This means the videos can now include sounds like: Traffic Nature People talking or walking This audio feature is not available in other tools like OpenAI's Sora, Meta's MovieGen, Runway ML, Pika Labs, or Stability AI. How Veo 3 Works Veo 3 can be accessed online and comes with different plans: Pro Plan: Includes a trial pack for video generation Ultra Plan: Gives the most video generations and faster updates The Ultra Plan costs $249.99 per month in the U.S., with a 50% discount for first-time users for 3 months. List of New Countries with Access Besides Pakistan, other countries with access now include: Australia Canada Japan Malaysia Brazil South Korea Türkiye South Africa Google has said they are working to bring Veo 3 to India soon. Why It's Important Veo 3 stands out because it mixes AI video with real sounds, making content more lifelike. This helps creators, filmmakers, and businesses create better videos without extra editing tools.
Time Business News
5 days ago
- Business
- Time Business News
AI Fatigue—Where Buzzwords Outpace Breakthroughs And Enthusiasm
Artificial Intelligence has dominated tech headlines for years. From generative chatbots to eerily realistic deepfakes, the promises of AI have seemed limitless. But for many, the once-thrilling narrative is beginning to wear thin. Welcome to the era of AI fatigue—where buzzwords outpace breakthroughs, and enthusiasm is giving way to exhaustion. Every week brings another round of AI announcements: yet another company unveils a 'revolutionary' chatbot or layers generative AI onto an existing product. But the sheer repetition has dulled the shine. What was once exciting now sounds like a broken record. The excitement of early 2024, supercharged by jaw-dropping generative AI demos like OpenAI's Sora, has now given way to a harsh reality: most AI implementations aren't changing lives—or even workflows—at scale. And that gap between promise and delivery is causing frustration on all fronts. According to the EY Pulse Survey, released in December 2024, 50% of senior business leaders admit that enthusiasm for AI within their organizations is fading. More notably, 54% feel they are struggling to effectively steer their companies through AI's rapid ascent. Much of the pushback stems from a year-long pressure campaign to integrate AI everywhere, often without a clear plan or meaningful ROI. Companies rushed in, hoping to surf the AI wave, only to find themselves adrift in a sea of overhyped tools and underwhelming outcomes. The skepticism isn't limited to boardrooms. The Accenture Life Trends 2025 report reveals that nearly 60% of consumers (59.9%) now question the authenticity of online content—an unintended consequence of the AI content boom. From synthetic videos to algorithm-written articles, trust in digital media is eroding. And when consumers can't trust what they see, hear, or read, the utility of AI becomes a liability instead of a value-add. Industry analysts point to a familiar pattern: the Gartner Hype Cycle. Right now, AI appears to be perched on the 'Peak of Inflated Expectations,' teetering toward the inevitable 'Trough of Disillusionment.' Despite the sleek product demos and breathless press releases, many AI applications remain disconnected from real-world relevance. For the average person, terms like 'transformer models' or 'contextual learning' are meaningless without clear, tangible benefits. As a result, excitement has turned into noise. Innovation has become iteration. And for both businesses and consumers, the novelty is wearing off. AI fatigue isn't just a sign of technological burnout—it's a call to recalibrate. The world isn't rejecting innovation; it's craving something new . Something that doesn't just claim to be the future, but feels like it. Tech leaders face a pivotal moment. Instead of announcing minor AI feature updates like they're moon landings, the industry needs to rediscover its sense of vision. That may mean pivoting beyond AI entirely—or finding ways to use it in ways that are more transparent, human-centered, and genuinely transformative. AI has had its moment in the sun. Now, it's time for the next big leap. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Geeky Gadgets
6 days ago
- Geeky Gadgets
AI Video Battle: Google Veo 3 vs. OpenAI Sora
AI-powered text-to-video tools like Google Veo 3 and OpenAI Sora are reshaping the way content is created, offering innovative solutions for transforming text prompts into visually engaging videos. Among the leading options in this space are Google Veo 3 and ChatGPT Sora. Both platforms use artificial intelligence to streamline video production, but they differ significantly in their features, performance, and usability. Understanding these distinctions is essential for selecting the tool that aligns with your creative or professional objectives. The video below from Simple Alpaca gives us a look at both options. Watch this video on YouTube. Video Quality: High Definition vs. Ultra High Definition Both Google Veo 3 and ChatGPT Sora deliver high-definition video outputs at 1080p, making sure clear and professional visuals suitable for a variety of projects. However, ChatGPT Sora takes video quality a step further by offering 4K resolution, making it an excellent choice for projects that demand ultra-high-definition visuals. Whether you're producing content for professional presentations, social media, or platforms like YouTube, the 4K capability of Sora provides a distinct advantage for creators who prioritize superior resolution and detail. Video Duration: Short-Form vs. Flexible Length The two platforms also differ in their approach to video duration. ChatGPT Sora is optimized for short-form content, with a maximum video length of 60 seconds. This makes it particularly well-suited for social media posts, promotional clips, and quick advertisements. Google Veo 3, on the other hand, offers more flexibility in video length, although the exact duration limits are not explicitly defined. If your projects require extended video lengths or greater adaptability, Veo 3 may provide an edge, albeit with less transparency regarding its maximum capacity. Audio Generation: Integrated Sound vs. DIY Audio Audio integration is a key area where Google Veo 3 and ChatGPT Sora diverge. Google Veo 3 includes built-in audio generation, allowing users to create videos with synchronized soundtracks or voiceovers directly within the platform. This feature simplifies the production process, especially for users seeking a complete video-audio package. In contrast, ChatGPT Sora does not offer native audio generation, requiring users to source or create audio separately. For those who value efficiency and cohesive outputs, Veo 3's integrated audio capabilities stand out as a significant advantage. Editing Tools: Built-In Convenience vs. External Dependence When it comes to editing capabilities, ChatGPT Sora compensates for its lack of audio integration with robust built-in editing tools. These tools enable users to fine-tune their videos, adjust pacing, and make creative modifications without leaving the platform. Google Veo 3, however, lacks integrated editing features, meaning users must rely on external software for post-production adjustments. For creators who prioritize convenience and control during the editing process, Sora's built-in tools offer a more seamless and efficient experience. Cinematic Video Processing: Quality vs. Speed Google Veo 3 emphasizes cinematic-quality video processing, making it an excellent choice for high-end projects where visual polish is paramount. However, this focus on quality can result in slower processing times, particularly when audio generation is involved. ChatGPT Sora, by contrast, prioritizes speed and versatility. In addition to text-based video creation, Sora supports input from images and video clips, offering a more dynamic tool for diverse creative needs. If time efficiency and adaptability are critical factors, Sora's faster processing and broader input options may better suit your workflow. Platform Accessibility: Ecosystem Integration and Availability ChatGPT Sora is readily accessible to users subscribed to ChatGPT Pro and Plus, providing seamless integration for those already within the OpenAI ecosystem. This accessibility ensures that users can quickly incorporate Sora into their existing workflows without additional setup. Google Veo 3, while promising in its capabilities, appears to be less widely available at this stage. For users who prioritize ease of access and compatibility with their current tools, Sora's availability and integration offer a more straightforward solution. Choosing the Right Tool for Your Needs Selecting between Google Veo 3 and ChatGPT Sora ultimately depends on your specific requirements and creative priorities. Each platform brings unique strengths to the table, catering to different aspects of the video production process. Choose Google Veo 3 if: You prioritize cinematic-quality visuals, integrated audio generation, and are working on high-end projects where processing speed is less critical. if: You prioritize cinematic-quality visuals, integrated audio generation, and are working on high-end projects where processing speed is less critical. Choose ChatGPT Sora if: You need 4K resolution, faster processing, built-in editing tools, and a tool that integrates seamlessly into your existing workflow. By carefully evaluating the features, strengths, and limitations of each platform, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your creative goals and project demands. Whether you value ultra-high-definition quality, integrated audio, or versatile editing capabilities, both Google Veo 3 and ChatGPT Sora offer powerful solutions for modern content creation. Advance your skills in AI-powered text-to-video by reading more of our detailed content. Source & Image Credit: Simple Alpaca Filed Under: AI, Guides, 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.
AsiaOne
25-05-2025
- Business
- AsiaOne
How the interest rate cycle works - and what it means for your home loan, Money News
When it comes to mortgages, timing isn't just important — it's everything. Lock in a loan at the wrong time, and you could be stuck paying tens of thousands more over the next few years. But catch the cycle just right? You could be saving serious money while everyone else scrambles to refinance. That's why understanding the interest rate cycle is no longer optional. It's essential. Especially right now, as the tide begins to turn. What is the interest rate cycle? In simple terms, interest rates don't stay still. They rise when central banks want to slow inflation, and fall when the economy needs a boost. This rise and fall, like a wave, is what economists call the interest rate cycle. In Singapore, the 3-Month Sora (Singapore Overnight Rate Average) is the key benchmark rate used to price most floating rate home loans. When inflation runs high, MAS tightens monetary policy to slow things down. When inflation is under control, they start easing again, and that's when interest rates start falling. Where are we now in the cycle? Let's look at the facts: In January 2025, MAS loosened its monetary policy — the first time it's done so in years. This is a clear signal that the fight against inflation is easing. In April 2025, analysts interviewed by CNA said they expect further easing in the months ahead. This isn't speculation. It's the natural rhythm of the market — and we're seeing unmistakable signs that we're heading into a falling rate environment. The window of opportunity that most people miss On paper, fixed rates today may look more attractive — 2.40 per cent fixed vs. 2.65 per cent floating (3M Sora + 0.25 per cent). Most people would pick the lower number without question. But here's where smarter borrowers zoom out and look at the full picture: Where are interest rates heading next? The writing's on the wall — Sora has already softened from its peak, and with more monetary easing on the horizon, we could be staring at 2.0 per cent, 1.8 per cent, or even 1.5 per cent by next year. And if that happens? Your floating rate starts to automatically decline. Your interest payments shrink without you lifting a finger. That fixed rate? Stuck where it is. This is what we call strategic positioning — taking a slight hit now (e.g. paying $80 more a month), in exchange for potentially four-digit savings every year when the rates come down. Timing is everything - and it's not as simple as waiting Some say, "I'll wait till Sora drops, then I'll switch to floating." But here's the insider truth: banks adjust their margins fast. When rates are high, banks offer thin spreads like +0.25 per cent to attract borrowers. But once Sora drops, they widen the spread — sometimes as high as +0.80 per cent. And just like that, the package you were eyeing isn't so attractive anymore. By then, you're too late. The golden opportunity has passed. [[nid:718015]] This article was first published in Mortgage Master.
Express Tribune
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
The prompt theory
Listen to article Are we living in the most oppressive timeline or the most fascinating one? It is hard to tell. One minute, technological breakthroughs take your breath away; the next, mankind does something so stupid you start worrying about its future. Before introducing the technological bit, let me inform you that this piece is not about tech development - nor the fascinating twist to which it owes its title. In this climate, it is hard to talk about anything other than the India-Pakistan conflict. But technology provides an interesting trigger. You will see. Last week, Google launched Veo 3, its most advanced AI video generator. Its biggest highlight is that it creates videos with synchronised audio, including dialogue, sound effects and music. This is a significant step-up from Veo 2 and OpenAI's Sora, which lacked native audio and had lower overall quality and control. Seeing is believing, and it is the kind of technology that can instantly kill the entire entertainment industry. Forget about actors, directors, special effects artists and musicians. Just feed text and pictures relating to a script through a prompt and watch it come true. If, for some reason, you feel that the outcome is subpar, take solace in the fact that the previous model, Veo 2, was released only six months ago. And who knows what Sora and other AI brands will come up with next. What intrigued me the most while going through various generated videos was a series of clips someone with remarkable humour and a sense of irony had produced. The realistic characters in those clips can be heard and seen rejecting what they call the "prompt theory" — the idea that they are created by prompts and a random prompt writer is deciding their fate. If this rings a bell, that is because it is a play on the idea many know as the simulation theory — the belief that we exist in an elaborate four-dimensional realistic simulation. You will be surprised to know how many influential figures believe in that. My response to the notion is simple. Call it by any name, life is life. As long as we can live and feel it, it is life. But here's the rub. We think we are free agents. But the truth is, what we call free will is also an algorithm. A complex, partly biological, partly sociologically informed algorithm, I grant you — but an algorithm nonetheless. So, call it predestined or whatever you will; we are creatures of our circumstances. Now, from the sublime to the stupid. India says its war on Pakistan is only suspended, not ended. I wish the Indian media could also suspend its war on the sensibilities of its viewers — and common sense. But the Punch and Judy show continues unabated. Remember that dark night when overzealous Indian anchors were claiming that their country's forces had destroyed Pakistan? Once their unprofessionalism was badly exposed, not everyone showed contrition. One anchor recorded a video and shared it on social media. In the clip, he asked what was so wrong in lying about Pakistan. His video was also shared by the ruling BJP's official handle. Another genius claimed there was no point in getting alarmed by this as it was just an average, everyday psychological operation. How is it a psychological operation if the end user is your domestic audience? He did not care to elaborate. The impunity with which these elements can carry on without consequences should tell you you are dealing with an exceptional condition. It is one sign, at any rate. But if that was the situation within India, guess what was happening outside. The Indian diaspora is known for its competence. Many have well-deservedly risen to the top in their respective professions. Being sympathetic to the country of your origin is not unheard of - especially when it is a cultural powerhouse like India. So far, so good. But until this government came to power, the Indian state either desisted from exploiting their loyalty or used it subtly and sparingly. However, this government, since 2014, has leaned heavily on them as well as native Indophiles, shunning those who refused to play ball - particularly in media and academia. So, those who did comply have risen in the ranks. And their spin is not subtle. Consider the tweet by Shashank Joshi, the Defence Editor of The Economist, commenting on Jim Sciutto's admirable story citing French authorities: "France acknowledges the loss of an Indian Rafale. According to the images circulating, which appear to be original, it may have been the first of 36 Rafale that entered service in the Indian Air Force. The next question is whether it was hit by a Chinese PL-15 missile." Do you see the sleight of hand? Indian Rafale, Chinese PL-15? China-India dispute framing tracks better in the West. Otherwise, if PL-15s are Chinese, Rafales are French. If Rafales are Indian, PL-15s are Pakistani. But framing it as a China-India conflict says India is fighting the "good fight" against China; Pakistan is just in the way - only collateral damage. In his tweet dated May 10, some serious foreshadowing: "I think there will be a lot of interest in satellite images in the coming days to sort through which side's claims of striking which targets are true and which are exaggerated or false, particularly in relation to strikes on air defence systems, air bases and other military sites." No kidding. The New York Times published a story on May 14 titled, "India and Pakistan Talked Big, but Satellite Imagery Shows Limited Damage." The story mentioned a May 10 claim by Pakistani authorities of damaging the Udhampur air base and produced a satellite image taken two days later - allowing two whole days for cover-up and repair. The Pakistani images are undated. Why is this suspicious? Because, to the current Indian government, image is more important than reality. Another gentleman torn from the same cloth: Ravi Agrawal, Foreign Policy's Editor-in-Chief, who appeared on CNN's marathon transmission presenting Indian strikes as a rational choice. The comfort with which this lot brushes aside the questions about inculpatory evidence is breathtaking. But then there were researchers from the diaspora who wrote research papers trying to scientifically validate PM Modi's belief that cloud cover can help evade radar detection. This is some next-level mind-bending spin. And here we have our dear Pakistani colleagues who are beating themselves up just because, in view of their mild-mannered and responsible coverage, their government praised their behaviour. When you are fighting an existential battle against such industrial-scale falsehoods, what do you care who praises you? Tell yourselves you are better at civilisational prompt writing.
