Why AI Writing Sounds the Same — and Why Humans Are Responsible (Part 1) - Why does so much AI writing sound the same? In Part 1 of our explainer series, this article breaks down why repetition in AI-generated content isn’t a model problem, but a human one — shaped by recycled prompts, performance incentives, and missing editorial judgment. If you use AI to write, market, or communicate, this is essential reading.

AI Doesn’t Erase Individuality — It Reveals It (Part 2) - If AI writing sometimes feels generic, does that mean AI erases individuality? In Part 2 of our explainer series, we explore why the opposite is true — and how AI reflects human voice, curiosity, and intent back to us. From the “instrument” metaphor to the myth of AI sameness, this piece explains why individuality doesn’t disappear with AI — it becomes more visible.

Meta to Buy Manus, AI Agent Startup, in Deal Valued $2–$3B - Meta is acquiring Manus, a Singapore-based AI startup known for autonomous AI agents, in a deal reportedly valued at $2–$3 billion. Manus has claimed its agent outperforms OpenAI’s Deep Research and says it has surpassed $100 million in annual recurring revenue from subscriptions. The deal could face U.S. scrutiny due to Manus’ Chinese origins, though Meta says the company will cut all remaining ties to Chinese ownership and stop operating in China.

Investors Warn AI Could Reshape Labor Markets in 2026 - Investors are increasingly warning that AI could reshape labor markets in 2026, as companies shift budgets from hiring toward automation and autonomous systems. While outcomes remain uncertain, venture capitalists say AI is moving beyond productivity tools toward replacing certain types of work. The shift matters less for its predictions than for what it signals: institutions are now willing to say this out loud.

Qwen-Image-Layered: Layered Decomposition for Inherent Editablity - Alibaba’s Qwen team has unveiled Qwen-Image-Layered, a new AI model that decomposes a single image into multiple RGBA layers, enabling independent editing of foreground, background, and other visual elements. This layered representation supports high-fidelity operations like recoloring, replacing objects, and text modification without disturbing unrelated content — offering a more intuitive alternative to traditional image editing. The model’s open-weight and layer-aware design promises enhanced inherent editability for creative and production workflows.

AI literacy resources for teens and parents - OpenAI has launched new AI literacy resources designed to help families navigate generative AI responsibly, with straightforward guides for teens and parents on how ChatGPT works, how to use it thoughtfully, and how to talk about its limitations and potential risks. The resources include practical tips on prompt writing, double-checking results, and setting boundaries for healthy use, supporting safe and confident exploration of AI tools.

Updating our Model Spec with teen protections - OpenAI has updated its Model Spec to include dedicated Under-18 Principles aimed at guiding how AI models like ChatGPT behave with users aged 13-17, prioritizing safety, transparency, and age-appropriate support. Developed with expert input, these principles clarify expectations around content, encourage real-world support, and strengthen safeguards for higher-risk interactions while expanding parental controls and family resources.

SoftBank to buy data center firm DigitalBridge for $4 billion in AI push - Shares of DigitalBridge Group surged after reports that SoftBank Group is in advanced talks to acquire the digital infrastructure firm for roughly $4 billion, a move that aligns with SoftBank’s strategy to expand its AI infrastructure footprint. The deal would reinforce investments in AI-linked data centers and connectivity, drawing strong market interest as investors price in accelerated demand for systems that support next-generation artificial intelligence.

Log in to Perplexity.ai, click Account → Connectors in the bottom left, and enable Gmail with Calendar

Create an upcoming call in Google Calendar with the person's full name in the title and their work email as a guest (click "don't send invite" if testing)

Prompt Perplexity: "It’s [current time + date]. Look at my calendar and prep a pre-call memo: (1) What the company does (2) Recent news/funding (3) Key background/interests/posts with public icebreakers (4) smart questions to ask"

Click "Spaces", create a "Call Prep" space, and paste your custom instructions—now before meetings, navigate here and say "Prep for my next call"

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