Google has launched Gemini 3.1 Pro, a sophisticated AI model designed for advanced problem-solving in science and engineering. This upgrade achieves a remarkable 77.1% on the ARC-AGI-2 benchmark, significantly outperforming its predecessor. Available to developers via the Gemini API and Google AI Studio, it supports tasks like complex system synthesis and offers enhanced usage limits for Pro and Ultra plan users. Further enhancements are planned to optimize agentic workflows.
Russian authorities deny reports that Telegram will be blocked from April 1, yet concerns grow over tightened internet censorship. Kremlin-aligned media previously suggested a nationwide shutdown of the app, which serves over 90 million users monthly. State Duma members label the claims as "fake," but Telegram has faced slowdowns since summer 2021. The app remains essential for military communications, raising fears of operational disruptions. Digital Development Minister Maksut Shadayev states the messenger won't be blocked on the frontlines, for now.
Elon Musk's recent post on X, amassing nearly 18 million views, envisions a future where advanced AI and humanoid robots could elevate everyone’s wealth beyond today’s richest individuals. He asserts that increased productivity from AI-driven automation will lower costs and enhance access to healthcare and entertainment. Musk emphasizes that once scarcity diminishes, a significantly improved global standard of living may become feasible, firmly re-establishing AI's potential impact on economic systems.
Privacy issues surrounding smart glasses are in the spotlight following a TikTok incident involving Meta's Ray-Ban eyewear. A user reported feeling uneasy after discovering her aesthetician wore glasses capable of recording video undetected. In related legal proceedings, Mark Zuckerberg acknowledged that Instagram's age verification was inadequate until 2019, admitting over 4 million users were under 13 before requiring birthday sign-ups. The growing unease surrounding smart glasses calls attention to their ethical implications.
Meta announced it will shut down messenger.com in April 2026, redirecting users to facebook.com/messages for web-based chats. This change follows the discontinuation of Messenger desktop apps for Windows and Mac, signaling a consolidation strategy in Meta's messaging services. Users without a Facebook account will be limited to the Messenger mobile app, with chat history accessible via a secure backup PIN. This transition may frustrate those relying solely on the web version for communication.
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman asserts that companies are engaging in "AI washing," attributing layoffs incorrectly to artificial intelligence. At the India AI Impact Summit, he stated that while real job displacement from AI is forthcoming, many businesses falsely label layoffs as AI-driven. A recent study revealed that 90% of C-suite executives reported no impact from AI on jobs. Altman anticipates business transformation and job creation alongside technological advancements, suggesting the impact of AI will soon be felt more broadly.
The U.S. plans to introduce an online portal, freedom.gov, aimed at circumventing European content restrictions, driven by actions of State Department's Rogers. With a 120 million-euro fine imposed on X for noncompliance and Germany issuing 482 removal orders in 2024, former official Kenneth Propp warned this initiative could be a "direct shot" at EU regulations. While details remain vague, the portal's purpose echoes past U.S. funding for tools supporting free information internationally, raising questions about its unique advantages.
OpenAI has unveiled its "OpenAI for India" initiative during the India AI Impact Summit, aiming to enhance AI access and education nationwide. The program collaborates with Tata Group to provide resources and training for the younger population, fostering skills necessary for a digital economy. “This partnership is pivotal for advancing AI literacy in India,” states an OpenAI representative. The initiative signifies a strong commitment to developing India's technological workforce for future challenges.
Figma's shares surged approximately 14% as the company announced strong revenue forecasts, projecting 2026 revenues between $1.36 billion and $1.37 billion, exceeding estimates of $1.29 billion. This gain is fueled by Figma's integrated AI capabilities, competing against larger firms like Adobe. CFO Praveer Melwani noted the introduction of a hybrid monetization model with AI credits in March. However, increased investments in AI and operations might affect gross margins, despite projected market value growth exceeding $1.7 billion.
At the India AI Impact Summit 2026, Google CEO Sundar Pichai announced plans to establish a full-stack AI hub in Visakhapatnam. This initiative aims to accelerate AI research and innovation in the region, potentially creating thousands of jobs. Pichai emphasized, "This hub will strengthen our commitment to developing AI responsibly." Google’s strategic investment underscores India's growing significance in the global tech landscape, positioning it as a key player in AI advancement.