Tech Hype: iPhone 16 Leaks, Robotic Pushups, and the AI Job Shake-Up!

Aug18-24,2024:Dive into this week's top tech news and updates. Apple’s upcoming iPhone 16 and AirPods 4 are set to make waves, Boston Dynamics showcases its new Atlas humanoid, and Google might be reshaping Android's interface. WhatsApp introduces customizable chat themes, while smartwatches raise concerns about health tracking accuracy. Plus, don’t miss the ACM TechTalk on Retrieval Augmented Generation with Abhinav Kimothi, and explore the evolving landscape of STEM careers in the age of AI. Stay informed and ahead with the latest in technology and innovation!

Tech Highlights of the Week

1.iPhone 16 Launch Date Leaked: September 10 Event at Apple Park

Apple's iPhone 16 is rumored to launch on September 10, 2024, at Apple Park, according to a leaked event poster shared by tipster Majin Bu. The poster features the tagline "Ready. Set. Capture." Alongside the iPhone 16, Apple is expected to unveil AirPods 4 in two variants. While the launch date aligns with previous rumors, some key AI features may not be ready until the iOS 18.1 update in October.

2.Boston Dynamics Unveils New Electric Atlas Humanoid Performing Pushups in Latest Video

Boston Dynamics showcased the athletic capabilities of its new electric Atlas humanoid in a recent video, where Atlas impressively performs pushups. The updated Atlas, featuring electric actuators for increased strength and motion range, follows the retirement of the older hydraulic version. Boston Dynamics is now preparing Atlas for commercial testing with Hyundai and other partners. The pushups echo similar feats performed by the University of Tokyo’s Kengoro robot in 2017, highlighting Atlas's advancements in humanoid robotics.

3.Google May Remove Dedicated Search Button on Android Devices in Upcoming Update

Google is reportedly planning to remove the bottom search bar from its Android app as part of a new update, potentially marking a significant change in the user interface. The update, spotted by tipster Assembly Debug in the Google beta app version 15.32.37.28, shows various layouts, none of which include the familiar bottom search bar. This change aligns with Google's ongoing enhancements to its Gemini AI-powered search.

4.WhatsApp Testing Customizable Chat Themes for Enhanced Messaging Experience

WhatsApp is reportedly working on a new feature that allows users to customize their chat themes, similar to Instagram. According to WABetainfo, the feature, spotted in WhatsApp beta for iOS 24.11.10.70 and Android 2.24.17.19, will enable users to select their favorite colors for chat bubbles, offering greater control over the visual interface. The feature is still under development, with at least

5.Your Smartwatch May Be Lying About Your Health: What You Need to Know

Smartwatches offer convenient health tracking, but they aren't always accurate. A recent review found that while they measure heart rate with a reasonable error rate of around 3%, their calorie tracking can be off by 15-21%, and sleep tracking by 10%. These inaccuracies suggest that while smartwatches are useful for general insights, they shouldn't replace medical devices or professional assessments. Use them to build better habits, but consult healthcare providers for accurate health evaluations.

Introduction to Retrieval Augmented Generation: Unlocking the Future of AI with Abhinav Kimothi

Join the next free ACM TechTalk on September 12 at 12:00 PM ET, featuring Abhinav Kimothi, Co-Founder and VP of AI at Yarnit, for an "Introduction to Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG)." This talk will explore the limitations of current Large Language Models (LLMs) and how RAG enhances them by integrating external knowledge retrieval with generation. You'll learn about the advantages of RAG, real-world applications, and how to design and implement RAG systems. Whether you're building AI systems or interested in the latest trends, this session offers valuable insights. Register now to attend or receive a recording.

The AI-Driven Future: How STEM Jobs and Career Paths Are Transforming

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to permeate every facet of our lives, the job market is undergoing a significant transformation, particularly in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). A recent report from the AI-Enabled ICT Workforce Consortium, which includes tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Intel, highlights that 92% of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) jobs will experience high or moderate transformation due to AI.

This shift is most pronounced in entry-level and mid-level positions, where AI is set to automate routine tasks, thereby reshaping job roles and responsibilities. For instance, developers specializing in mobile and backend development are expected to see substantial demand, particularly if they can transition into management roles that oversee AI-driven projects.

However, with the rise of AI, there are also challenges. Many candidates are now using AI tools like ChatGPT to enhance their resumes and cover letters, leading to a surge in job applications. Employers are becoming increasingly adept at identifying AI-generated content, which may impact the hiring process.

Despite these challenges, the demand for skilled STEM professionals remains robust. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an 11% growth in STEM jobs by 2032, with opportunities clustering around major research hubs like Boston, San Francisco, and New York.

Moreover, remote work, which has become more prevalent post-pandemic, continues to attract talent, with studies showing that remote workers are generally happier and more engaged than their office counterparts. As the tech industry evolves, it’s clear that AI will not only redefine the nature of work but also expand career horizons, especially for those willing to upskill and adapt to this rapidly changing landscape.

For women in tech, AI presents both opportunities and challenges. While the number of women in STEM roles has increased, achieving gender parity remains an ongoing struggle. Nonetheless, the growing influence of AI in the workplace could potentially level the playing field, offering new avenues for career growth and leadership.

In conclusion, as AI reshapes the job market, it’s imperative for professionals to stay ahead of the curve by embracing new skills and understanding the nuances of AI-driven transformations. The future of work is here, and those who adapt will thrive in this new era of technological innovation.

Stay tuned for more exciting updates, events, and insights from the ACM VVIT Student Chapter. Remember to subscribe to our blog to never miss a beat in the dynamic world of technology