Google has launched Search Live with voice-input, a two-way conversational query function for exploring online resources. Presently available via the Google app for Android and iOS to U.S. users enrolled in Google Labs’ AI Mode experiment, Search Live is designed to handle complex, multi-part questions. Google suggests the new feature is “perfect for when you’re on the go or multitasking, like if you’re packing for a trip.” The discursive voice feature follows Google’s general rollout of AI Mode, recently launched to compete against products such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT Search and Perplexity AI. Read more

Investment firm Goldman Sachs just implemented an AI assistant framework for employees across its entire workforce of about 46,000, marking what the bank says is a major technological leap forward for its global operations. The conversational GS AI Assistant includes a developer copilot for coding, translation tools and a nascent “Banker Copilot” aimed at streamlining investment banker workflows. The conversational GS AI Assistant also lets workers interact with large language models including ChatGPT and Gemini within the firewalled parameters of Goldman’s secure compliance software. The rollout comes after a year of pilot testing involving more than 10,000 employees. Read more

Kaiju means “giant monster” in Japanese, and Alamo Drafthouse Cinema is hoping the term will translate to monster box office at its new Godzilla-themed movie house, the Alamo Drafthouse Valley Fair in Santa Clara, California. “This is just the beginning,” says Alamo, announcing a partnership with Toho International, the Los Angeles-based subsidiary of the fabled Tokyo production company that is home to the reptilian heavyweight and his pals Mothra, Rodan and Megalon (as well as Akira Kurosawa’s “Seven Samurai”). Alamo promises “exclusive merch, screenings and other surprises” tied to Toho’s “universe of city-stomping beasts.” Read more

YouTube Shorts is getting a free Veo 3 upgrade that will let creators generate high-quality AI video clips using text prompts. The news was announced by YouTube CEO Neal Mohan at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, where it was positioned as a means for brands to transform how advertisements are produced. Veo 3 functionality will be integrated “later this summer,” according to Mohan. The Google DeepMind video generation model has been made available for use in YouTube Shorts starting with Veo 2. With Veo 3, the platform gets audio capability and what Mohan describes as “vastly improved” video quality. Read more

The redesigned Firefly AI app Adobe released in April with third-party model support is now available on iOS and Android. Text-to-video and background editing are among the features included in the new mobile package, which Adobe claims will help users capture inspiration as it strikes with “the freedom to generate images and videos wherever you are.” Adobe says those of all skill levels will be able to use the app, which was designed “to complement the ways we already interact with our phones.” The company is also rolling out its AI-powered online moodboard creator — Firefly Boards — in public beta, now with video functionality. Read more