Latest news with #WhatsAppWeb
Hans India
21 hours ago
- Business
- Hans India
Perplexity AI's chatbot now generates videos on X: Here's how it works
Perplexity AI, the fast-rising search startup challenging Google, has added a powerful new feature to its chatbot on X (formerly Twitter)—AI-generated videos. The feature, available via the @AskPerplexity account, allows users to tag the bot with a short prompt and receive an eight-second video complete with sound, visuals, and even dialogue. While the rollout has boosted engagement and creativity on the Elon Musk-owned platform, it has also triggered concerns over the potential spread of misinformation. X has already faced criticism for weak content moderation, and this new tool—though equipped with Perplexity's 'strong content filters'—may add fuel to the fire. The rivalry is heating up between AskPerplexity and Grok, the AI chatbot built by Musk's xAI. While Grok remains text-based for now, Perplexity's leap into video puts it a step ahead in terms of media capabilities. Soon after launch, users began flooding X with imaginative AI-generated video content, including fictional depictions of public figures and events. The surge caused delays in video delivery, with the @AskPerplexity account humorously posting, 'Some of y'all need help,' in response to the overwhelming number of video requests. In addition to expanding on X, Perplexity has been rolling out its services on WhatsApp. Since April, users can interact with the chatbot by saving +1 (833) 436-3285 to their contacts and messaging it directly—no separate app or signup required. The tool works across smartphones, PCs, Macs, and WhatsApp Web. Meanwhile, the company's ambitions go beyond social media. Perplexity is also developing its own browser, Comet, aiming to rival Google Chrome in the web browsing space. However, not all the news is positive. The BBC recently accused Perplexity of using its content to train its AI models without permission and threatened legal action. The broadcaster demanded the deletion of any scraped data, a halt to unauthorized use, and compensation. Perplexity responded sharply, calling the claims 'manipulative and opportunistic,' stating that BBC misunderstood how AI and the internet work. As Perplexity pushes the boundaries of AI-powered search and media, the road ahead includes both innovation and intense scrutiny.
Hans India
21 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Hans India
How To Use Perplexity AI: VIDEO
Perplexity AI is quickly gaining attention as a powerful alternative to traditional search engines, and it's now easier than ever for beginners to get started. From answering complex queries to generating AI-powered videos, the platform is evolving fast—and you can access it across multiple platforms without downloading an app. Here's a quick guide on how to use Perplexity AI's most exciting features: 1. Ask Anything on X (Formerly Twitter): To generate an AI-powered 8-second video with sound and dialogue, simply tag @AskPerplexity in a post with your prompt. Within minutes (or longer during high traffic), you'll receive a creative AI-generated video in your replies. This feature makes it fun to visualize ideas, characters, or fictional events. 2. Use Perplexity AI on WhatsApp: You can also access Perplexity directly on WhatsApp. Save the number +1 (833) 436-3285 to your contacts. Send your questions as you would in a regular chat. It works on smartphones, desktops, and WhatsApp Web—no sign-up required. 5. Be Mindful of Content Accuracy: Although Perplexity uses strong content filters, video generation on platforms like X may still raise concerns about misinformation. Always cross-check sensitive topics or public figures. With legal disputes (like the one involving BBC) and rapid innovation, Perplexity is shaping the future of AI-powered search. And now, anyone can try it—no technical expertise required.
Time of India
03-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
WhatsApp's new feature may finally let you chat without sharing your number, may allow creation of a unique handle like Instagram
Launched back in 2009 as a simple status update app, WhatsApp has come a long way from being a quiet disruptor to becoming the go-to messaging platform for over 2 billion users globally. In 2014, it was snapped up by Meta (then Facebook) for a whopping $19 billion, marking one of the biggest tech acquisitions ever. Since then, WhatsApp has added a steady stream of features while sticking to its clean, no-nonsense interface. And now, it's gearing up for one of its most significant privacy updates yet: the ability to hide your phone number in select chats. WhatsApp is working on a major privacy update, and it's one users have been asking about for years. The app is gearing up to introduce usernames, which means you could soon start chatting without revealing your phone number. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Τι είναι το ChatGPT για το οποίο μιλάνε όλοι; courses AI Spotted in a recent beta build by WABetaInfo, the feature is still in testing, but it's a clear sign that WhatsApp is actively developing the interface and rules around it. It's not live for everyone just yet but if all goes well, a public rollout might not be too far off. What's Changing on WhatsApp? Soon, WhatsApp will introduce usernames, allowing you to create a unique handle, similar to what you see on platforms like Telegram or Instagram. Instead of needing your phone number, others will be able to find and message you using this new username. This could be especially useful in group chats or when connecting with people you don't know well. To keep things secure and user-friendly, WhatsApp may set a few rules for usernames: Each must include at least one letter. Usernames can't start with 'www'. Only lowercase letters, numbers, underscores, and periods are allowed. Once your username is accepted, you'll even get a fun confetti animation as confirmation. If you ever change your username, your contacts will be notified via a system message, similar to how updates about profile photos or phone numbers are currently handled. However, it's still unclear whether WhatsApp will give you the option to hide your phone number from existing contacts. What we do know is that new users who don't have your number will only see your username. WhatsApp is also working on a username availability checker, expected to roll out later as part of an update for WhatsApp Web. There's no official release date yet, but the feature seems to be in its final testing phase. Once launched, it could significantly improve privacy by letting users chat without revealing personal numbers. If you've been hoping for a more private way to connect on WhatsApp, that option may be coming soon.
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Business Standard
03-06-2025
- Business Standard
Soon, WhatsApp will let you hide your phone number behind a username
WhatsApp is reportedly testing a new feature that will allow users to choose a unique username, thereby improving user privacy. According to WhatsApp update tracker WABetaInfo, the feature is included in the latest beta version of iOS. It will enable users to engage in conversations without disclosing their phone numbers, thus providing an additional layer of security. An update for WhatsApp Web is also in development, which will enable users to verify the availability of usernames and configure their preferred handle prior to the official launch. The username feature is expected to be rolled out widely in the coming weeks. WhatsApp: How the username system will work According to the report, WhatsApp will no longer use phone numbers as the primary means of identification. Instead, users will be permitted to choose a unique username that complies with specific guidelines. Usernames must contain at least one alphabetical character, which will prevent the use of usernames comprising solely numbers or symbols. Only certain characters will be permitted: lowercase letters (a–z), numbers (0–9), periods, and underscores. The report noted that these rules will help maintain a consistent and predictable structure across all usernames. In addition, WhatsApp will prohibit the use of usernames that are already saved in a user's contact list or are in use by another individual; duplicate usernames will not be permitted. WhatsApp usernames must be between 3 and 30 characters in length. To minimise confusion and reduce the potential for scams, usernames may not contain domains (such as .com), begin or end with a period, or include consecutive periods. Once a username meets all specified criteria, a confirmation screen will be displayed. This screen will include a celebratory animation with confetti and will confirm that the username has been successfully associated with the user's account. From that point onward, individuals who do not possess the user's phone number will see the username instead—both when initiating a new conversation and within group chats. Privacy and notification features A key aspect of this feature is its emphasis on user awareness and privacy. When a user updates their username, a system-generated message will be displayed in ongoing chats, notifying all participants in real time. This functionality is intended to ensure transparency and minimise confusion during conversations. After a user selects an eligible username, the aforementioned confirmation screen with a celebratory animation will appear, signalling the successful setup. Subsequently, the username will replace the phone number in both private and group chats, thereby offering enhanced anonymity, particularly when interacting with unknown contacts.
Hans India
03-06-2025
- Hans India
WhatsApp Updates: WhatsApp to Launch Usernames; Let You Chat Without Sharing Your Phone Number
In a significant step towards enhancing user privacy, WhatsApp is preparing to introduce a long-awaited feature that could change how users connect on the platform. Soon, users may be able to hide their phone numbers by setting unique usernames—a first for the messaging app that has relied on phone numbers as a core identity feature since its inception. The update, currently being tested in the beta version of the app, was spotted by WABetaInfo, a trusted source for early WhatsApp developments. According to the report, WhatsApp is working on letting users create usernames, similar to platforms like Telegram and Instagram. This move could revolutionise how people interact in group chats and with strangers, offering more control over personal information. A Major Privacy Shift For years, WhatsApp has operated on the premise that users connect using their mobile numbers. This direct method of communication, while simple, has posed privacy concerns, especially in group chats or business interactions where sharing personal numbers isn't ideal. The introduction of usernames aims to address this issue. With the new feature, users can create a unique handle that others can use to initiate conversations without knowing their phone number. This would allow more private and secure communication, especially useful in scenarios where anonymity or limited sharing of personal details is preferred. How It Will Work Once rolled out, users will be able to select a username that includes at least one letter and follows specific formatting rules. Usernames cannot begin with 'www' and must consist only of lowercase letters, numbers, underscores, or periods. Upon successfully creating a username, users will see a celebratory confetti animation as confirmation. A system message will be displayed in chats when a user changes their username, similar to notifications currently shown for profile picture or number changes. This ensures transparency among contacts while maintaining ease of use. However, the feature comes with limitations. For now, usernames will primarily help users interact with people who don't already have their phone numbers saved. It's still unclear whether WhatsApp will allow users to completely hide their phone numbers from existing contacts. Further details are expected as the testing phase progresses. Additional Features in Development In addition to usernames, WhatsApp is also working on a tool to help users check the availability of a desired username. This is likely to be integrated into both the mobile app and WhatsApp Web in a future update. The usernames feature is not yet available to the public, but all signs point to a launch in the near future. The fact that it's already appearing in beta versions suggests the company is in the final stages of development. What It Means for Users This new functionality represents one of the most notable privacy upgrades for WhatsApp in recent years. By allowing communication without revealing personal contact details, it gives users greater freedom and control, especially in group environments or professional interactions. As WhatsApp continues to evolve, this update highlights the platform's ongoing commitment to user privacy while preserving its familiar, user-friendly design. Whether you're someone who values discretion or simply wants more control over who sees your number, this feature could prove to be a game-changer.
