Nari Labs has developed Dia-1.6B, a compact open-source AI model designed to revolutionize emotional speech synthesis. Despite its small size — with just 1.6 billion parameters — the model claims to outperform industry leaders like ElevenLabs and Sesame. Dia’s ability to mimic emotional nuances, including laughter, coughing, and even a convincing scream, sets it apart from competitors that often falter in natural emotional delivery. Running efficiently in real-time on a single GPU, it tackles persistent challenges such as emotional granularity and the “uncanny valley” effect, where synthetic voices sound lifelike but lack authentic emotion. The model’s release sparks intrigue within AI communities, highlighting advancements in human-machine communication.

Motorola’s Razr 2025 series incorporates AI-focused features into its foldable smartphones, aiming to enhance functionality and usability. The Razr Ultra leads the lineup with its 7-inch display and AI-powered tools for notifications, memory aids, and transcription. The phones integrate systems like Google’s Gemini, Microsoft’s Copilot, and Perplexity AI to improve adaptability and user interaction. All models include stronger builds, featuring titanium-reinforced hinges and Gorilla Glass Ceramic. Motorola is also introducing AI-enabled accessories, including Moto Buds Loop earbuds designed with Bose and the Moto Watch Fit fitness tracker. The Razr series reflects the company’s increasing focus on merging artificial intelligence with device design.

Adobe announced plans to release a mobile version of its Firefly AI image generation tool for iOS and Android. The company also introduced new AI models, including Firefly Image Model 4 and Firefly Video Model. This move intensifies competition with OpenAI, which recently launched a popular image generation feature. Adobe aims to provide creatives with on-the-go AI assistance for tasks like brainstorming ad campaigns. The company emphasizes its commitment to generating commercially safe, hyper-realistic images and videos while blocking intellectual property infringement. Adobe is also partnering with competitors like OpenAI and Google

TD Bank Group is set to bolster its AI capabilities by opening a new office for its Layer 6 research and development center in New York City later this year. The expansion aims to deepen support for the bank’s U.S. operations while tapping into the city’s rich talent pool. Currently based in Toronto, Layer 6 will bring on 20 specialists, including data scientists, machine learning experts, and generative AI implementation professionals. This move enhances the bank’s ability to personalize customer experiences and optimize internal processes using advanced AI tools. TD Bank acquired Layer 6 in 2018 to drive innovation within the financial sector.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has unveiled new rules for the 98th Academy Awards, steering clear of favoring or penalizing the use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) and digital tools in filmmaking. This marks the Academy’s first official rule addressing AI’s role in film production. While past films such as The Brutalist and Emilia Perez drew criticism for incorporating GenAI, the new guidelines stress that AI usage will not influence nomination chances. Instead, the focus remains on human-driven creative authorship. The decision highlights Hollywood’s ongoing debate about balancing technological advancements with artistic expression. The 98th Oscars will take place on March 15, 2026.