Consumer Technology Association SmartBrief
OpenAI-backed Merge Labs to rival Neuralink
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August 13, 2025
Consumer Technology Association SmartBrief
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Today's Digital Pulse
Heap of electronical devices close up - smartphones on black background
(Tereza Hanoldova/Getty Images)
Smartphone makers are offering devices in vibrant colors and unique designs to turn around a recent sales slump. Recent launches include shades like Titanium Jadegreen and Silverblue, bold oranges and even models embellished with Swarovski crystals. Black remains the most popular choice, likely due to its perceived neutrality and higher resale value.
Full Story: The Washington Post (8/5) 
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Smart Home
Samsung has debuted its first Micro RGB TV, starting with a 115-inch model and more sizes to follow in the global rollout. The TV utilizes a new Micro RGB backlight system that offers more precise color and contrast compared to previous Mini LED models.
Full Story: The Verge (8/12) 
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Wireless
Male and female tourists wearing in-ear headphones while sitting on footpath in city
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The iOS 26 beta reveals Apple is working on real-time translation for AirPods, activated by pressing both earbuds simultaneously. The feature would allow users to understand spoken language instantly in supported languages, which may include French, German and Portuguese.
Full Story: Digital Trends (8/12) 
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TechRadar
OpenAI continues to upgrade ChatGPT (OpenAI)
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is co-founding Merge Labs, a startup aiming to compete with Elon Musk's Neuralink in brain-computer interface technology. Merge Labs, which will use artificial intelligence for its interface, is expected to be valued at $850 million, with most funding coming from OpenAI's ventures team.
Full Story: Engadget (8/13) 
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Retail Trends
Brands that offer rewards across connected streaming and gaming platforms can get a 40% increase in retention, Programming Insider reports, and first-time conversion rates go up 25%. Marketers have turned to integrated rewards as they try to reach a gaming base that is now almost 50% female and includes a large population of adults.
Full Story: Programming Insider (8/12) 
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ICYMI: Most Clicked from Yesterday's Issue