# Microsoft Build 2024: Everything Announced  Microsoft had quite the array of announcements at the Build 2024 keynote, focusing heavily on innovations in Windows and artificial intelligence (AI). Like many others in the industry, Microsoft is on a mission to integrate AI into virtually every aspect of their offerings. From enabling Copilot to assist Minecraft players to creating AI-powered virtual co-workers, Microsoft's vision for AI is broad and ambitious. If you missed the live two-hour event, don't worry. Here are the key takeaways: ## Microsoft is Deploying AI Agents  Microsoft is paving the way for Copilot AI agents to function as virtual employees. These AI agents are designed to alleviate businesses of repetitive tasks such as…

**Windows Now Has AI-Powered Copy and Paste** Illustration: The Verge --- In a groundbreaking move, Microsoft has introduced an AI-powered Advanced Paste feature to its PowerToys for Windows 11. This innovative functionality leverages the capabilities of artificial intelligence to streamline workflows by converting clipboard content dynamically. Imagine copying a block of code in one programming language and pasting it as if it were written in another—Advanced Paste makes this a reality. However, for some of its more sophisticated tricks, the feature does require OpenAI API credits. The Advanced Paste tool comes built into PowerToys version 0.81. Once you’ve enabled it, you can activate this feature with a simple key command: Windows Key + Shift + V. This opens an Advanced Paste text window offering multiple conversion options, including plaintext, markdown,…

# Microsoft Unveils 'Windows Volumetric Apps' for Meta Quest Headsets  In a groundbreaking announcement at the recent Build conference, Microsoft revealed its latest innovation: “Windows Volumetric Apps on Meta Quest.” Expanding beyond just mirroring your flat Windows desktop onto the Meta Quest headset, this technology promises to bring HoloLens-esque 3D apps and digital objects directly into the Quest's immersive environment. ### From Flat Screens to 3D Spaces Traditionally, extending Windows applications to VR headsets has involved rendering a flat version of your desktop in virtual spaces. Numerous apps have excelled in this capacity. However, the new volumetric feature will go steps further by allowing Windows to cast dynamic 3D objects into the Meta Quest's virtual realm, creating an interactive experience similar to what…

# Elon Musk’s xAI Aims to Revolutionize Grok with Multimodal Capabilities  In a groundbreaking move, Elon Musk’s AI company, xAI, is set to enhance its Grok chatbot by incorporating multimodal inputs. According to public developer documents, the company plans to allow users to upload photos and receive text-based responses, bringing a whole new dimension to user interaction. ## The Future is Multimodal The term "multimodal" refers to the ability of a system to process and respond to multiple types of input—text, images, or even audio—simultaneously. Currently, Grok functions solely on text inputs, but the upcoming update promises to expand its capabilities significantly. This innovative step could revolutionize the way we interact with AI, making it more versatile and user-friendly. ##…

## Microsoft Enhances File Explorer: Native Version Control and 7z Compression ### By [Your Name] In an exciting development for developers and tech enthusiasts alike, Microsoft has announced some significant enhancements to File Explorer at Build. The updates promise to make project management and file handling a lot more efficient. Here's a closer look at what's coming: ### Native Version Control Integration One of the standout features is the integration of native version control within File Explorer. By adding systems like Git directly into the app, Microsoft is making it easier for developers to keep track of changes and comments without leaving their familiar navigation environment. Imagine being able to see who committed what and read comments on your files directly within File Explorer. This feature could profoundly streamline workflows,…

# Microsoft's New Windows Copilot Runtime: A Game Changer for AI Developers **Photo: Allison Johnson / The Verge** Microsoft has unveiled an array of Copilot Plus PCs, signaling a major shift towards integrating AI features directly into Windows 11. With this launch, Microsoft introduces over 40 AI models now running seamlessly on Windows 11 through their latest innovation, the Windows Copilot Runtime. The remarkable part? These models aren’t just for show—developers can harness them for their own applications. ## A Peek Behind the Curtain at Microsoft Build At the recent Microsoft Build event, the tech giant offered deeper insights into the workings of the Windows Copilot Runtime. Central to this runtime is a library of APIs that developers can leverage to create their own AI-powered apps. The framework comes equipped…

## Exciting News: Preorder the Sonos Ace Headphones Now!  *The stylish Sonos Ace come in black and white. | Photo by Chris Welch / The Verge* The moment we've all been waiting for is finally here! Sonos has officially announced the release of its much-anticipated Sonos Ace headphones. Mark your calendars for June 5th, the launch date for these innovative wireless headphones. If you can't wait that long, here's some great news: preorders are already open, and you can secure your pair today for $449. ### First Impressions: What We Love About the Sonos Ace While we are still thoroughly testing the Sonos Ace, our initial impressions during a recent demo session have left us incredibly excited. Here are a few standout features that caught our attention:…

💔 Pixar Cuts 14 Percent of Workforce, Shifts Focus Back to Feature Films 💔 In a startling move that has left many fans and employees in shock, Pixar Animation Studios has announced significant layoffs. This step is part of parent company Disney's broader strategy to reign in spending and refocus its operations. ### What Happened? As reported by Variety, Deadline, and The Hollywood Reporter, Pixar is laying off 175 employees, which equates to about 14 percent of its workforce. This decision follows in the footsteps of Disney's earlier moves to reduce its staff by thousands, aiming to cut down expenses by approximately $5.5 billion. ### Why the Layoffs? The layoffs at Pixar are geared towards realigning the studio’s priorities back to what it does best—feature films intended for theatrical release.…

### Google’s AI-Powered Search Results Now Include Ads **Illustration: The Verge** --- Google’s AI-driven search summaries, a revolutionary feature that has just been introduced, are now beginning to incorporate advertisements. In an announcement made on Tuesday, Google revealed its plans to commence testing for search and shopping ads embedded within these AI-generated overviews for users in the United States. **The Shift to AI-Enhanced Search** The initial rollout of AI summaries marked a significant step forward in Google’s commitment to enhancing user experience by providing concise, AI-generated answers to search queries. However, the recent addition of ads to these summaries indicates a new direction in monetizing these AI features. **How Ads are Integrated** In a visual example provided by Google, you can see how the AI overview responds to a query…

**Title:** IGN Makes Waves in Gaming Media: Acquisition of Eurogamer, Rock Paper Shotgun, and More **By Cath Virginia, The Verge** In an age where media consolidation is a common occurrence, the gaming media landscape has now experienced a significant shake-up. IGN Entertainment, a prominent player in the world of gaming news and reviews, has expanded its influence by acquiring the robust portfolio of UK publisher Gamer Network. This acquisition includes respected names in the industry, such as Gamesindustry.biz, Eurogamer, Rock Paper Shotgun, VG247, and the tabletop gaming-focused Dicebreaker. Additionally, the network also holds stakes in specialized platforms like Nintendo Life and Digital Foundry. The terms of this high-profile deal remain undisclosed. However, reports have surfaced of workforce reductions following the acquisition. Specifically, Gamesindustry.biz has noted “some redundancies” across the newly…