Google’s Bard chatbot gets the Gemini Pro update globally, Apple Vision Pro to launch with 600+ apps and games

Top News

Google announces that its Bard chatbot is now powered by the Gemini Pro model globally, with support for over 40 languages. - Link

Apple Vision Pro to launch with over 600 apps and games optimized for the new headset, while just last week, only 150 apps had been specifically designed for it. - Link

The Allen Institute for AI (AI2) is releasing several GenAI language models it claims are more “open” and licensed so developers can use them for training, experimentation, and commercialization. - Link

Google is releasing an AI-powered tool for image creation called ImageFX, using a list of keyword suggestions that let users experiment with “adjacent dimensions.” - Link

As GenAI tools begin to transform the music industry, Google is ramping up its investments in AI tech to create new songs and lyrics. - Link

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Advice of the Day

Designing a Product for 1M People

Airbnb co-founder Brian Chesky advocates a personalized approach to product design by starting with an individual user. Instead of catering to a million people, he suggests selecting one person, thoroughly understanding their needs, and crafting a product that resonates with them. By iterating and refining the design until that specific user loves it, the focus remains on creating a satisfying experience. Only after achieving this should the design process extend to the next user. - Link

Startup Demo of the Day:

Flipner AI is a tool for writing and capturing ideas. Users store text and audio notes in the content hub, and the AI gathers these notes to write an article, post, or any text in the desired style, format, and tone of voice.

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This Week in Startups

E1990: Michael Kim and Jason discuss Fund of Funds, investor attraction in pre-seed and seed startups, and the rise of "micro VCs." The conversation covers alpha, beta, and quality indices, investor networks, current market trends, and the shift where seed is the new series-A. The episode ends with insights into founder demographics seeking investment. - Watch

E1889: Jake Gutstein joins Jason to discuss the creation of Zest, from the initial concept to product development. They explore Zest's transition to full-time operations, fundraising, and insights from user research. The episode also covers the product launch, fundraising approach, and experiences with the Launch Accelerator program. It concludes with a glimpse into Zest's future plans and goals.- Watch

E1888: Sunny joins Jason for the 100th demo on the show. The episode includes demos of MultiOn, Paid Leave, Consensus, and Depth Anything. Sunny also showcases AI advancements posted by Barsee on X. This episode is dedicated to the memory of Aaron Swartz. - Watch

E1887: Aileen Lee talks with Jason about her journey in the male-dominated tech world and overcoming challenges as a woman. They discuss her role in popularizing the term "unicorns" for successful startups. The conversation covers the effects of the ZIRP era on the Unicorn Club, changes in VC trends, and insights into US unicorn founders. They explore key traits of successful startup founders and predict future unicorn status. - Watch

E1886: David Weisburd, Elizabeth Yin, Zach Coelius, and Jason Calacanis explore the current state of venture funds. Despite a slow market, venture funds are growing in size. The conversation touches on the performance comparison between smaller and larger funds, focusing on Hustle Fund's quantitative approach to evaluating startups. The group also discusses the resurgence of the Bay Area and the increase in the number of unicorns, although liquidity has decreased. The session concludes with a rapid-fire segment highlighting top recent investments. - Watch

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