At TechBBQ in Copenhagen, discussions among investors, founders, and operators from various parts of Europe revolved not merely around building with AI but rather around who ought to wield control over it. Regardless of your location during the annual Nordic conference—whether onstage, during cocktail hours, or at after-parties—the dialogue continually returned to how Europe could assert greater control over the technology driving AI.
This inquiry into sovereignty—fittingly aligned with this year’s theme of “Emerging from Agency”—was particularly pertinent following the unavailability of Anthropic’s AI models Mythos and Fable to users outside Europe earlier this year.
The situation prompted many within the European ecosystem to seriously contemplate the implications of owning the models and the infrastructure supporting this AI surge, rather than depending on the U.S. and China for that power.
One startup executive remarked to me that the Mythos and Fable incident significantly disrupted his software team, while another downplayed its impact. Indeed, the startup executive acknowledged that relying on two other geopolitical powers for AI could one day lead to considerable challenges for Europe, but at present, things remain largely satisfactory.
“TechBBQ’s theme of agency felt especially relevant this year as the dialogue shifted from what AI is capable of to what we are genuinely prepared to allow it to do,” Ellen de Brever, an angel investor and head of partnerships at the Novo Nordisk Foundation Cellerator, shared with me during the conference that concluded on August 27.
Panels addressed the future of women’s health, a summit on collaboration between Nordic and African ecosystems for innovation and investment, and discussions on increasing the flow of growth capital into Europe. Although AI served as a common thread in numerous conversations, as de Brever noted, “the debates centered not on smarter machines, but on human judgment and who retains control.”
“The era of AI agents isn’t solely about machines gaining agency,” she elaborated. “It’s about humans determining what to relinquish.”
An attendee mentioned that one of the most invigorating sessions at the event was the panel featuring Signal President Meredith Whittaker, which I moderated, centered on whether privacy and AI can coexist. Whittaker was forthright and expressed strong opposition to the integration of AI assistants and agents into operating systems, akin to ChatGPT’s implementation with iMessage.
She stated that this AI epoch is establishing a “data collection apparatus” and that AI labs are utilizing savvy marketing tactics to obscure “the collateral consequences” of amassing so much data.
“There remains a substantial market demand for privacy,” she remarked. “And especially in light of sovereignty concerns, we will find customers here.”
In another session, Emad Mostaque, co-founder of Stability AI and Intelligent Internet, joined me on a panel discussing how an agentic workforce will influence the economy and its implications for personal sovereignty.
“Sovereignty is the capacity to resist power exerted over you,” Mostaque stated. He discussed the accumulation of power within a few AI labs, asserting that “eventually, every nation will be governed by AI and that ‘the person controlling the AI governs the nation.’”
Mia Negru, the advocacy and engagement director for the nonprofit Life With Artificials, reached out to me post-panel to share her reflections.
“If intelligent agents take on cognitive tasks and robots increasingly handle physical work, we might be on the cusp of something far greater than another technological revolution,” she conveyed in her message. “We could need to reconsider ownership, labor, democracy, economic engagement, and ultimately who gets to be part of society.”
However, when the panels wrapped up, attendees relaxed at happy hours and rooftop soirées, where lighter conversations eventually dominated.
Lovable, Nvidia, OpenAI, AWS Startups, and HSBC collaborated to sponsor a rooftop barbecue where I conversed with founders regarding the emerging tech hubs in Denmark.
London’s Ada Ventures hosted a gathering at the cocktail bar Bird, where I spoke with a health tech founder about the surge of innovation in the women’s brain health sector. Subsequently, there was the speakers’ dinner on an island in the heart of Copenhagen where the international press gathered to enjoy fire dancers. The after-party carried on upstairs, with guests tempted to linger for one last drink until the bar tab was closed.
“In a setting filled with discussions about machines, the most unforgettable experiences still arise from the most straightforward interactions,” de Brever reflected. “Human connection, face-to-face, forging relationships, exchanging ideas, and reminding each other of what technology can never truly replace.”
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Vijay Pande was once more recognized in academic communities than in investment ones. This changed suddenly about twelve years ago when Marc Andreessen and Ben Horowitz — who had dedicated the first five years of their firm to steering clear of healthcare and life sciences — opted to invest in the sector, entrusting Pande with the initiative. At that time, he was a chemistry professor at Stanford, best known for creating Folding@home, the distributed computing project that enabled millions of personal computers to function as a supercomputer for disease research. Over the following decade, he expanded a16z’s investment into a venture managing nearly $4 billion.
Thus, it was somewhat surprising when Pande decided to leave it all behind in June of last year to embark on a much smaller venture. In fact, his new firm, VZVC, co-founded with long-time investor Zach Werner, centers around a limited number of concentrated bets each year rather than numerous ones, has no staff, and significantly relies on AI for its daily operations.
To dive deeper into Pande’s significant shift, we engaged him this week on why he is focusing on a few concentrated bets instead of spreading himself too thin in today’s market — as well as addressing one of the more intriguing dilemmas in AI-driven biotechnology: unlike textual data, biological information cannot be extracted from the internet, causing almost every company to develop its own isolated dataset. What implications does this hold for the advancements that AI in medicine has promised, and who actually gains access to these innovations?
This discussion has been edited for brevity and clarity. You can also listen to the full conversation (below).
You mentioned that biology is transitioning from a “science of discovery” to something that can be engineered. What does that entail?
Historically, drug development has involved a fair amount of luck. I believe the change now is that AI and machine learning enable computers to process and understand complex concepts… to determine which targets your drugs should aim for regarding specific diseases, to create those drugs, and now even to assist in clinical trials — the most costly phase of the process.
I thought clinical trials were becoming less expensive due to drug developers utilizing more synthetic data, thus requiring fewer participants.
That’s certainly a goal.
The expenses and duration for reaching clinical trials have been decreasing, especially with AI, yet executing a trial can still cost hundreds of millions of dollars, explaining why medications are so pricey. The odds of a drug progressing successfully from the initial trial to the conclusion of the third trial are merely 20%. If 8 out of 10 fail, and these processes cost hundreds of millions, the overall financial burden becomes extremely high. Typically, the cause of failure isn’t because of error from the biologist, but rather that all the tests these drugs were based on utilized animal models like mice, which are ultimately poor predictors for human outcomes. The AI model won’t be flawless, but it’ll surpass any animal model, and once it achieves that, it becomes really thrilling.
[The following phase is]: Is this drug appropriate for me?
You refer to personalized medicine. . .
The term used here is precision medicine. When individuals consult a doctor for something significant, the physician often has to make educated guesses about the situation since their capabilities are limited. Subsequently, they prescribe a medication — if that fails, another is provided, followed by yet another. This pattern occurs in cancer and various areas. We would all benefit significantly if the initial drug was the correct one. Typically, your blood test outcomes are compared to population norms. However, they should truly be compared to: is this [result] unusual for you? What we are also beginning to achieve on the medical front is [the capacity] to comprehend what would be appropriate for the individual.
Would you say the progression to this point has been gradual and consistent, or has there been a recent surge?
I believe it’s a collection of various factors [coming together]. For example, precision medicine has long relied on genomics. However, the truth is that your genome is somewhat like the original blueprint of your house; yet your home has altered considerably since its construction. There are numerous other elements now measurable in proteomics and more that are much more pertinent for comprehending diseases and your current bodily state. Moreover, there has been substantial automation in robotic measurements that integrates well with AI, complementing each other effectively.
Over the last decade, there’s been a steady progression in both AI for biology and AI for chemistry. The biology aspect focuses on how we can treat a disease, while the chemistry facet deals with how we can develop a drug targeting that specific protein. Notably, there have been substantial advancements in those ten years.
You indicated that biology is one of the few domains from which AI cannot simply extract data from the internet. How does this impact the evolution of the field?
This domain lacks the data that allows everyone to train comparable models, and your data cannot easily transfer between models. It’s a fascinating scenario from a purely AI perspective.
Doesn’t that reflect a familiar challenge in medicine — healthcare professionals working within [territorial, frequently competitive] silos?
You’re touching upon a significant issue here. Consider a patient diagnosed with a type of cancer that involves both oncology and endocrinology; these two specialists often don’t coordinate well. The intriguing aspect of AI is that it can, in theory, function as a specialist across disciplines, potentially observing patterns that any individual physician couldn’t perceive. It’s akin to assembling a team of top-notch doctors collaborating instantaneously.
Is there sufficient data sharing for that vision to become a reality? I understand the motivation for founders and investors to safeguard their [individual findings], but . . .
I believe a significant trend is emerging where we’re witnessing a shift towards compiling atlases of biological information — which, from a technological perspective, typically involve foundation models. As these become more prevalent, I anticipate we will observe a trend similar to the one observed with open-source LLMs, which outperform corporate counterparts: open-source foundation models in biology having a wide-reaching effect.
You’re affiliated with Genesis Therapeutics, which originated from your lab at Stanford, and Insitro, the drug discovery firm launched by Daphne Koller, a former Stanford colleague. You also mention incubating a company with a founder you have known for 20 years. What attributes do you seek in founders, and in what sectors?
I’ve primarily focused on two areas. One is AI for healthcare delivery, where I have considerable experience from a16z, and the other is AI for clinical trials.
One of the most crucial aspects for me [regarding founders] is establishing mutual trust — founders who demonstrate high integrity and follow through on their commitments… I envision this collaboration lasting well into the future, ideally, extending over the next 5 to 10 years and beyond, as they develop their next company. I want to work with individuals who prioritize long-term thinking, not just competitive success, but genuinely pondering the question: how can we succeed together?
What do you think you’ve achieved correctly and incorrectly in your investment journey so far?
When I first began discussing AI, machine learning, technology, and bio-medicine over a decade ago, I faced considerable resistance, with many asserting, ‘Oh, that will never materialize. It won’t be useful,’ and so forth. That skepticism has largely dissipated, and witnessing this progression has been immensely rewarding.
I suppose it took me time to fully grasp that while the allure of the most advanced technologies is undeniable, the core always comes back to go-to-market strategy. I remind my founders, particularly those from scientific or product backgrounds, to channel their brilliance and creativity towards the go-to-market strategy since that aspect is at least as challenging, if not more so, than the technical side.
Can you elucidate how you’re structuring this new firm differently compared to your previous experience at a16z?
Currently, we are operating in a distinctly different manner… VZ is named after myself, Vijay, and my co-founder, Zach Werner — the “Z.” We intentionally maintain a smaller size… from an investment standpoint, it’s just the two of us. Initially, we planned to hire associates, but we discovered that with our existing networks, that wasn’t necessary.
What does “concentrated” really mean?
We’re [not] aiming for 30 investments per year… we’re looking at approximately five, not many — very concentrated. Adding a company in a typical fund is akin to adding a Facebook friend — it’s a quick process. For Zach and me, it’s more like… wanting to have another child. It’s a significant decision for us.
Given this structure, who are you up against for deals?
Interestingly, with this model, we aren’t typically competing for top rounds — people often create opportunities for us. It’s a markedly different approach compared to pursuing desirable Series A or B investments. Generally, others are eager to bring us on as investors due to the unique contributions Zach and I can make and our hands-on involvement. When I consider figures who inspire me, I look at someone like Antonio Gracias at Valor — he’s become well-known through the SpaceX deal, but he has been committed to his work for 20 years. What Thrive has accomplished with a more concentrated portfolio also serves as a real source of inspiration. Obviously, a16z remains part of my essence, but I see those other entities as newer influences on our perspective.
What trends do you believe are currently overhyped in AI and biotech?
The truth is that AI can uncover insights concealed from human comprehension. The nuance becomes complicated when claims arise that AI will solve everything. The hesitation stems not from mistrust in AI — it’s about skepticism regarding data quality. LLMs thrive due to the abundance of data available for training. When the necessary data simply isn’t present, AI cannot magically provide a solution to that issue.
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Hollywood’s elite — individuals used to hefty eight-figure paychecks and lavish film locations — are now placing their bets on something much more compact: microdramas.
Microdramas are brief, scripted series meant for viewing on mobile devices. Episodes usually last just a few minutes and often incorporate soap opera-like narratives, intense plot twists, and cliffhangers crafted to keep audiences engaged and frequently paying for subsequent episodes.
This format gained popularity in China before rapidly expanding worldwide. Omdia anticipates that revenue generated by microdramas in the U.S. will hit $1.5 billion this year. An increasing number of applications have surfaced to take advantage of this trend, including ReelShort and DramaBox, with TikTok also joining the arena by launching its PineDrama app earlier this year.
Hollywood talent is now beginning to step in, either by featuring in fresh series, starting their own ventures, or funding platforms.
This shift is understandable. Film studios seek more economical and quicker methods to generate content, and numerous talents and crew are finding themselves out of work. Concurrently, TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts are capturing a larger share of viewers’ focus, making microdramas an increasingly appealing sector within the entertainment field.
Here are some renowned personalities who are taking advantage of the microdrama phenomenon.
The most recent notable Hollywood figure to enter this domain is James Franco, who stars in the series “Love, Lies & Frank,” available for streaming exclusively on Shortical.
Franco portrays the chief executive of an advertising firm who becomes embroiled in crime and werewolf-related chaos. The concept appears to follow a familiar structure typical of microdramas, filled with excessively dramatic sequences and a secret romance.
This project stands out as one of the pioneers produced under the new SAG-AFTRA verticals agreement, a union contract aimed specifically at low-budget microdramas. It offers an initial insight into how this format can open new avenues for actors and other talent in Hollywood.
Additionally, Franco’s participation has drawn interest for another reason: this venture signifies his attempt at a comeback after facing sexual misconduct allegations and a legal resolution in 2021. A review from Variety of the show was not particularly favorable, stating that the actor “seems to be sleepwalking through his lines.”
What motivated Franco to take on a microdrama role remains uncertain, yet his casting is still noteworthy. It is uncommon to see a prominent actor, who has earned millions and starred in major box office hits, take the lead in a small series intended for mobile viewing.
Issa Rae
Image Credits:HBO
Issa Rae stands out as a natural talent to welcome the microdrama surge. She was the creator and star of the 2011 web series “The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl,” which propelled her career forward.
In May, Issa Rae’s company Hoorae Media collaborated with TikTok’s new PineDrama app to unveil “Screen Time,” a suspenseful tale centered on a double date that takes a sinister turn when an unidentified individual takes control of the television and forces the couples to face their secrets.
The series quickly emerged as a sensation, racking up nearly 75 million views within its first week and becoming the leading vertical series on TikTok and PineDrama at that moment. It eventually surpassed 150 million views.
Jesse Tyler Ferguson
Image Credits:Chris Delmas / AFP / Getty Images
“Modern Family” actor Jesse Tyler Ferguson is also entering the field with “Theater Kids Vs. Zombies,” an upcoming musical comedy for the vertical storytelling platform aTwist.
The concept aligns closely with what the title suggests: a group of theater students discovers their high school overrun by zombies and realizes that their best chance of survival involves staging a musical.
Ferguson’s venture could be significant, as this series seems to diverge from the typical romance and soap-opera conventions dominating microdramas, instead embracing comedy and theater culture.
Taye Diggs
Image Credits:CandyJar
Taye Diggs not only featured in a microdrama but is also becoming more heavily invested in the field.
In January, Diggs was announced as the star and executive producer of “Off Limits & All Mine” for the platform CandyJar. He portrays a widowed entrepreneur who gets entangled in a secret romance with his best friend’s grown daughter.
More significantly, Diggs has established his own mobile-first vertical storytelling platform, Microhouse Films, aimed at granting filmmakers better control over the production and monetization of their works. The platform’s inaugural launch included eight projects, one of which is “Tides of Temptation,” a series developed in partnership with Lifetime.
This step is important because instead of merely joining the microdrama trend, Diggs is now contributing to shaping the industry itself.
Kim Kardashian
Image Credits:Nathan Congleton/NBC / Getty Images
Kim Kardashian’s participation showcases another avenue through which celebrities are engaging in the industry. Although she has yet to star in a microdrama, she has already invested in the sector by putting her money behind GammaTime, alongside her mother, Kris Jenner, and other angel investors.
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The noise-canceling capability is outstanding, featuring standard noise cancellation, transparency, adaptive, and off modes. Users have the ability to modify ANC intensity from one to five using the case or the Soundcore application. Only the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) and Sony WF-1000XM6 outperform in noise cancellation.
Straight from the box, the Soundcore Signature sound profile may not seem exceptional when compared to its call performance and ANC. It leans towards a bass-heavy sound, easily noticed even by an untrained listener, particularly when set against Apple or Bose earbuds. Five preset sound profiles are on offer (Soundcore Balance being a favorite), along with an eight-band custom equalizer and a personalized HearID mode that tunes the profile via an audio preference quiz.
With Soundcore Balance or custom HearID profiles, the Liberty 5 Pro delivers a remarkable audio experience. Although it lacks the detail found in the AirPods Pro 3 or QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, it remains enjoyable for the majority of users, particularly considering its more approachable price.
The Liberty 5 Pro has quickly become a favored pair of earbuds, even though I typically depend on AirPods Pro 3 for their convenience. Currently utilizing them while composing this review, the Liberty 5 Pro ensures comfort, quality sound, outstanding ANC, compatibility with both iPhone and Android, and a secure fit for any activity. An IP55 rating provides protection against dust and light rain. Notably, the improved call quality enhances the phone call experience despite surrounding noise.
There are some minor drawbacks: sound clarity isn’t flawless, and the earbuds are a bit large. Yet, these are trivial issues considering the pricing, nearly $100 below leading choices, suggesting that the Liberty 5 Pro may emerge as the best value earbuds by 2026.
In case you haven’t heard of Motorola, it could mean your smartphone lineup is lacking some exceptional Android models from a leading tech name. Since the 1970s, Motorola has significantly influenced the sector by introducing the first-ever cell phone (quite remarkable!). From the DynaTAC of the 1980s, through the StarTAC in the nineties, and the Razr in the early 2000s, the brand’s devices have represented cutting-edge design and style. And who can overlook that iconic “Hello, Moto” tune? More than half a century later, Motorola (now under Lenovo) still delivers some of the finest smartphones, featuring excellent budget alternatives to elegant premium foldables. We even offer a dedicated resource for Motorola smartphones.
Every smartphone caters to different needs, which is why Motorola offers a diverse selection to satisfy your requirements. Even better, you can make considerable savings on a new Motorola device by applying a Motorola discount code or coupon code, featuring our recommendations for the best flip phone (Razr Ultra 2025 and 2026) and best budget phone (Moto G 2026). With escalating phone prices caused by a global memory shortage, these discounts can significantly influence your purchase choices. Here’s where to find a Motorola coupon code for your next smartphone.
Unlock Motorola Coupon Code Discounts on Razr, Edge, and Moto G Models This August
Whether you’re interested in the chic and compact Razr Ultra foldable or the affordable Moto G Power, make sure to check for special offers.
A characteristic of the 80s F1 rubber straps that is absent in the new collection is the V-shaped grooves located at the bottom of the original straps. TAG crafted the 80s rubber straps to have a longer length so that they could comfortably fit over wetsuits, making them perfect for surfers and divers. The V-shaped grooves facilitated easy trimming to the preferred length, which was especially advantageous when the watch was worn on the wrist instead of in water. It is evident that TAG is not inclined to have its new rubber straps modified.
For many years, I have desired a classic original orange TAG F1 and finally succeeded in obtaining one earlier this year, albeit the later WA1213 model. Eddy Burgener, who designed the TAG F1 in the 80s, stated that vibrant, attention-grabbing colors were fundamental to the original collection, and the models were initially envisioned to be linked not with driving but with water sports.
In an interview with watch site Hodinkee last year, Burgener revealed that TAG intended to develop a new watch style for American surfers, divers, and other youthful beachgoers. The objective was to create a watch that was fun, colorful, and youthful, taking inspiration from the vivid surfboards and surfer clothing of the time.
To accomplish the vibrant colors, Burgener highlighted that the case had to be synthetic, which brought about the challenge of fabricating a diver’s watch with synthetic materials—a significant undertaking during that period. In the end, they selected a combination of fiberglass and plastic as the foundational material to enhance hardness and durability.
Present-day TAG solar F1s incorporate a type of bioplastic, an environmentally friendly castor-based polyamide referred to as TH-Polylight, substituting the previous “Arnite” thermoplastic. This material is shaped over a steel inner core, resulting in a sports watch that is more robust than most plastic-cased alternatives.
The Insta360 Link 2C Pro attaches firmly to its aluminum mount, ensuring stability even with the weight of the USB-C cable. This construction also facilitates smooth panning adjustments. In contrast to webcams with plastic mounts, like the Logitech MX Brio, the magnetic capability of the Insta360 can stick to any metal surface, providing versatility in shooting angles.
Regarding image quality, the Insta360 2C Pro shines in low-light situations compared to other webcams within its price bracket. Out of the box, it handles harsh lighting remarkably well. In various challenging scenarios, such as overhead and backlighting, it exceeded competitors by preserving highlight detail more effectively than pricier options like the Obsbot Tiny 3.
The image processing of the Insta360 delivers a natural contrast that surpasses alternatives like the Logitech MX Brio, which tends to crush blacks. With sufficient lighting, its sharpness is notable, bolstered by its 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor, which produces a smooth bokeh effect reminiscent of a DSLR. Other webcams do not achieve this depth.
However, it is not without weaknesses. Occasionally, it applies excessive processing and smoothing, particularly on facial features. Additionally, straight out of the box, the colors seem a bit cool, but the software allows for straightforward tweaks. Priced at $200, the Insta360 2C Pro provides a better value compared to the Logitech MX Brio, despite Logitech’s well-established brand reputation.
At $150, the standard Insta360 Link 2C serves as a suitable alternative. It features a somewhat smaller sensor and aperture, which impacts low-light performance and increases noise in high-contrast areas. Still, it represents solid value for the cost.
The Link 2C does not include the dual-microphone system found in the 2C Pro, resulting in inferior voice quality. Nonetheless, at this price point, the Link 2C remains a leading choice, surpassing models like the Razer Kiyo V2 and Logitech Brio 4K.
For individuals looking for budget webcams, caution is recommended. If utilizing a laptop with a decent built-in camera, it’s wiser to invest in a higher-quality model or improve lighting, such as with the $70 Logitech Litra Glow, which significantly enhances video call quality.
However, for those using external monitors who require a budget option, the Anker PowerConf C200, priced at $66, is commendable. It has limitations such as a non-swiveling mount and weaker monitor grip, but its 5-megapixel camera performs satisfactorily in good lighting.
Finally, the $60 Logitech Brio 300 is a tentative suggestion. Its drawbacks include a less appealing mount and basic microphone. However, it provides better sound than many built-in laptop microphones. The fixed 70-degree field of view restricts framing compared to other webcams.
I still recall my initial pair of Ray-Bans: the Original Wayfarer Classics featuring shiny black frames and green lenses. Back in middle school, when Aviators were all the rage, I convinced my mom to buy me a pair with gold metal frames and orange flash polarized lenses. They were a bold pick for a 13-year-old girl, yet I wore them everywhere. By my college years, I had saved enough for Round Metal sunglasses with rose gold frames and blue gradient lenses, the first pair I purchased with my own funds. Even a decade later, I still possess them. Though they’re scratched, I can’t part with them.
For many, Ray-Bans symbolize their first sunglasses investment or continue to be a go-to. These dependable classics last, aging gracefully and appealing to all ages, from children to adults, providing iconic styles and quality that are more affordable than numerous luxury eyewear brands.
Ray-Ban isn’t just relying on its past. The new Ray-Ban Meta AI glasses revolutionize smart eyewear, fusing cutting-edge technology with fashionable designs. At WIRED, we commend their fusion of enduring style and modern innovation. If you’re in the market for new sunglasses, Ray-Ban comes highly recommended. To assist you in saving, I’ve compiled the best Ray-Ban coupons and promotions available.
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The AI notetaker market is growing rapidly. We’ve assessed multiple devices and will stay updated on new offerings from brands such as Omi, Boya, Mobvoi, and SwitchBot.
Plaud NotePin S priced at $179: Weighing in at 18 grams, this device is portable and adaptable, suitable for wearing as a lanyard. It is restricted to 300 minutes of transcription unless a paid subscription is acquired. While real-time transcription is not an option, post-recording analysis is effective. It boasts a battery life of 20 hours, 64 GB storage, and supports multiple languages. Subscription fees are $100 per year for 1,200 minutes monthly or $240 for unlimited transcription.
HiDock P1 available for $169: This 91-gram gadget resembles a conventional tape recorder and features numerous controls. It is more complex than newer devices, but its microphone is robust and analysis is fast when connected to a PC. Best suited for fixed use. Free AI transcription is available, but extra features need a subscription.
SpeakON at $129: Weighing 27 grams, this device improves your smartphone’s speech-to-text options. Recording can only occur while its single button is pressed, making it unsuitable for lengthy recordings. It includes translation support for 12 languages without needing a subscription.
Looki L1 for $249: This neck-worn device records audio and video, facilitating vlogs and digital storytelling. It can summarize meetings but not transcribe, providing short digests instead. It’s not suited for extensive audio projects. A subscription is not necessary.
Flowtica Scribe at $159: A 33-gram pen designed for note-taking and recording. It offers quick summaries but has difficulty producing clear transcripts. Supports 39 languages. Provides 300 free minutes monthly, with a premium plan for $15 per month or $120 annually for 1,500 minutes, and unlimited for $30 monthly or $240 annually.
Vocci Ring priced at $299: This 3.5-gram smart ring delivers efficient transcription and summaries. It requires careful setup for the best performance. Available is 300 free minutes each month, with options for up to 1,200 minutes for $16 monthly or unlimited for $30 monthly.
iFLYTEK AI Recorder P1 for $119: A 23-gram clip-on gadget facing usability challenges. Recordings frequently fail to save, with unreliable summaries. The pro subscription offers 1,800 minutes monthly for $13 or $86 yearly, though it’s currently not recommended.
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The projector can be vertically adjusted on its base to display images upward or downward on a wall or ceiling. For horizontal adjustments, the base’s two feet can be extended to slightly tilt the projector toward the ceiling. It is easily movable yet remains stable in any direction.
The projector features a single HDMI port for ARC 5.1 audio passthrough or for connecting devices like gaming consoles. Additionally, there are USB-A and USB-C ports available for drives or charging devices, along with a 3.5-mm port. It does not include an Ethernet port and operates on Wi-Fi 5, which isn’t as fast or compatible as newer versions such as Wi-Fi 6E or 7. I faced connection issues with my Google Nest mesh network where it was unable to connect.
The setup process was straightforward apart from a 45-minute system update, primarily involving the Google Home app to scan a QR code and install applications. The GV50’s auto-keystoning functioned effectively on my screen, wall, and ceiling, requiring minimal manual adjustments. The GV50 remote features a user-friendly layout from BenQ with a central Home button, a setup button, and shortcuts for Netflix, YouTube, and Prime.
The GV50 can operate on battery power and includes energy-saving settings, such as an automatic power-down after a specified time. While I primarily used it plugged into a wall outlet at home, the battery option adds portability for use in areas with limited outlets. It can run on battery power alone for several hours, although the brightness dims to conserve energy.
**Picture Quality and More**
The GV50 is not intended to be a cinematic powerhouse and did not excel in my standard Spears & Muncil benchmark tests. The skin tone evaluations were average for this midrange device, offering limited tonal variety. During demo reel evaluations, the 1080p resolution and lack of contrast and brightness became apparent; colors such as a red cactus and yellow flower appeared muted, and trees blended into the dark background. Butterflies looked dull and lifeless.
Streaming from my iPhone 17 Pro and iPad 12.9-inch revealed the GV50’s sluggish processing speeds. While Google Cast and Apple AirPlay worked, the playback was inconsistent. Trying to fast-forward often led to pauses or failures due to the limited 2 GB RAM and 1.5-GHz processor.
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