Vivaldi to Exclude AI Features Amid Privacy Concerns

Vivaldi's CEO, Jon von Tetzchner, has declared that the browser will not incorporate AI features. The company confirmed that Vivaldi will refrain from adding a large language model for chatbots, summarization tools, or form-filling suggestion engines until better methods are available.

Tetzchner criticized Google and Microsoft for inflating their browsers with AI, warning that this could pose significant privacy risks for users. He noted the growing concern among web publishers facing reduced traffic due to AI-generated summaries in search results. Users prefer reading summaries and closing tabs, potentially leading to the decline of many blogs. Tetzchner also cautioned that AI might dictate the future of browsers, with market controllers monetizing user data.

Anthropic has announced updates to its terms of service and privacy policy. Claude AI, previously commended for not training on user data, will now do so unless users opt out. The new policy will take effect on September 28, affecting new and resumed conversations.

Microsoft has changed the default save location for Word documents to OneDrive, prompting criticism from users who view this as an anti-privacy move. Google has introduced enhanced gaming profiles for Android, which may impact user privacy. The new profiles allow users to track their achievements across devices, but Google will access certain data to improve services.

Google Translate has launched real-time translation for audio and on-screen text in over 70 languages. This feature is available for Android and iOS users in select regions. Additionally, Google Translate now offers language learning features, potentially competing with apps like Duolingo.

Microsoft and Samsung have introduced Copilot for Samsung TVs and monitors. Copilot, a virtual assistant, can provide show recommendations and assist with daily tasks. It is available on select Samsung models in certain markets.