Tag: Meta

  • Forza Horizon 6: Time to End the Honda Meta

    Key Takeaway

    – Honda Beat dominates online Touge races in classes C through A, frustrating players seeking variety
    – All-wheel-drive conversions with drag tires create overpowered meta setups, notably on the Honda Beat
    – Spec Racing mode avoids meta cars but frustrates players due to no qualifying and ramming
    – Some players avoid online racing entirely because of these balance and design issues

    The Meta Problem in Forza Horizon 6

    Forza Horizon 6 has gotten alot of praise for its big open world in Japan and its massive selection of cars. But when you get into online races, that selection dosen’t seem to matter much, and its starting to bug some fans. On Reddit, one player (u/III-Ad1655) recently complained about the current online meta, saying that Touge races from class C to A are mostly dominated by just two cars, the Honda Beat and the Honda City. He wrote that he just wants to see more variety in his races.

    Community Frustration Over the Honda Beat

    The comments on the thread show that this guy is not alone in his feelings. Many players are annoyed by seeing the same cars and setups again and again in online races. The Honda Beat has become a real target for criticism, with one user (u/Glittering_Ad4990) remembering a lobby where half the players were driving that car. Another user, u/Dragon3043, even called the Beat the new Boneshaker of FH6, meaning it’s now the symbol of an overpowered meta vehicle that ruins the fun for everyone else.

    Tuning System Blamed for the Issue

    Many users think the problem is not just the cars themselves, but also the tuning system in FH6. One player (u/arusiaK) pointed out that all-wheel-drive conversions combined with drag tires are a big part of it. He said this setup can partly fix the tires weaknesses while still leaving room for more upgrades, and this combo seems to help the Honda Beat stay on top. However, not everyone agrees that its a huge problem, as some players see it as just a normal part of competitive multiplayer games, saying that if one vehicle has a clear advantage, people will naturally use it more.

    Spec Racing as an Alternative

    Some Redditors say they only play the competitive Spec Racing mode in Forza Horizon 6, where every player uses the same preset vehicle specs, making meta cars less of an issue. But even that mode isnt totally free from frustration, as the community has mentioned the lack of qualifying as a problem. Players who start near the back of the grid have to fight through aggressive drivers and possible ramming incidents, which makes some people avoid online racing all together. The most upvoted comment in the thread sums it up pretty well: “Ah it’s a good feeling to not take part in online races at all.”

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  • Meta AI wearables: Glasses, pendants and more

    Meta AI wearables: Glasses, pendants and more

    Key Takeaway

    – Meta is developing an AI pendant (acquired via Limitless) for testing in 2026, with mixed user reception.
    – Up to four new smart glasses models are planned, including “Modelo,” “Luna,” and “Mojito VIP” in 2026.
    – Always-on “supersensing” glasses (“Artemis” and “SSG”) are being tested, powered by Meta AI and the unreleased Hatch agent.
    – A “Wearables for Work” business subscription service will leverage Meta’s AI models.
    – Meta aims to sell 10 million wearables in H2 2026 to offset Reality Labs’ $19 billion 2025 losses.

    Meta is currently working on a new artificial intelligence pendant, with plans to begin testing it next year. But this new venture does not come as a complete surprise considering that Meta acquired Limitless, the company that created the Pendant device, at the end of 2025. The product was a clip-shaped Bluetooth microphone that could be attached to a shirt or worn as a necklace, and it allowed users to listen to and record conversations during the day to generate summaries, transcriptions and a searchable database. Reception of the device, however, appears to be mixed, as this thread illustrates.

    New smart glasses and supersensing tech

    In addition to the pendant, Meta is said to be preparing up to four new smart glasses models. The initial model, with the codename “Modelo”, is scheduled to be launched this month, followed by “Luna” and “RBM2 Refresh” in the fall. Another model, called “Mojito VIP”, is expected to land in December. The company is also reportedly testing new “supersensing” glasses, featuring always-on cameras and sensors, called “Artemis” and “SSG”. These new devices are said to be powered by Meta’s AI models and by Hatch, an AI agent that has not yet been launched.

    Business subscriptions and sales targets

    Furthermore, the company also plans to offer a subscription service for businesses called “Wearables for Work”. Its objective is to expand the use of its AI models and encourage customers to pay for their subscriptions. Meta aims to sell 10 million wearables in the second half of 2026 in order to offset the losses of its research and development division, Reality Labs, which totalled $19 billion in 2025.

    An alternative to Meta’s pendant

    Readers who prefer a non-Meta pendant alternative are advised to check out the Plaud NotePin S ($179 at Amazon).

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  • WhatsApp Desktop May Get New Colorful Design Soon

    WhatsApp Desktop May Get New Colorful Design Soon

    Key Takeaway

    1. Meta is planning to introduce customizable themes to WhatsApp’s web app, similar to the mobile app, with potentially up to 49 themes.
    2. The new themes will allow per-chat customization and dynamic backgrounds, remaining private to each user.
    3. The update aims to enhance the web app’s interface, making it more engaging and feature-rich, aligning it with other Meta messaging platforms.
    4. WhatsApp is also developing a username feature, expected to be in advanced stages and possibly launching later this year.

    Meta is Enhancing Its Web App Experience

    Meta is now working on a new features to boost its web application, especially adding themes for user customization. According to recent reports, they are planning to bring the same themes available on mobile to the web version, which could include up to 49 different themes for users to choose from. This development aims at making the web experience more lively and personalized.

    Theme Customization Coming to the Web

    Currently, WhatsApp’s mobile apps on iOS and Android support themes, allowing users to change background images and chat bubble colours, but the web and desktop version do not have these options. Very soon, users will see these nifty features expanded to their web interfaces, making it easier to adapt the app’s look to their personal taste. The new themes are expected to include various shades of a single colour, possibly to test which themes will be popular before full release.

    Additional Customization and Privacy Options

    WhatsApp is also planning to add per-chat customization, enabling different themes for individual conversations. Users may also get a dynamic background that adapts to match the current theme. Unlike Messenger or Instagram Messenger, where shared themes are visible across contacts, WhatsApp will keep themes private for each user, enhancing personal privacy.

    Web App Updates and Future Features

    While WhatsApp has offered a web app for some years now, updates have traditionally rolled out first on mobile devices, considering the mobile app is its main focus. However, the interface’s dull look could benefit from a refresh with a complete themes system. Meta has demonstrated how they can create appealing desktop messaging clients, as seen with Messenger and Instagram, so this upcoming update could make the web app much more engaging.

    Upcoming Usernames and Other Enhancements

    In addition to themes, WhatsApp is supposedly working on a username feature, which would allow users to connect via unique handles instead of phone numbers. Although official details are pending, this change would align WhatsApp more closely with other Meta platforms and competitors like Telegram. Both the username feature and themes are in mature development stages and might be launched later this year, though no formal announcements have yet been made.

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  • Meta Developing AI-Powered Mark Zuckerberg for Employee Training

    Meta Developing AI-Powered Mark Zuckerberg for Employee Training

    Key Takeaway

    1. Meta is developing an AI-based digital twin of Mark Zuckerberg for internal use to enhance communication and management.
    2. The AI character is being trained on Zuckerberg’s mannerisms and strategic thinking to serve as an internal executive avatar.
    3. Meta is leveraging AI to improve productivity internally and is expanding its consumer AI models across its platforms and products.

    Meta’s New Internal AI Project

    Meta is currently working on some new stuff that really stand out, like an AI version of Mark Zuckerberg, but not for public use, instead this one is mostly for inside the company. As reported, the idea behind this project is to create a digital twin of Zuckerberg which can interact with employees, and help in internal communications and management tasks. They’ve been training this AI character to mimic his mannerisms, how he talks, and his usual way of thinking about the company’s strategy.

    Details and Purpose of the AI Doppelgänger

    This AI isn’t just a simple chatbot, it’s a photorealistic 3D figure designed to engage with staff as if it were Zuckerberg himself. Unlike typical AI tools that focus on coding or productivity boosts, this one is more about embodying an executive figure for internal uses. The system learns from Zuckerberg’s public statements and personal communication style, which makes this project quite unique and ambitious in the AI world. If successful, this could significantly change how managers or executives are represented and interact within the company.

    Meta’s Broader AI Strategy

    Meta has been making big moves to integrate AI into both their work processes and consumer platforms. Earlier this year, Zuckerberg emphasized that 2026 would be a game-changing year for AI, suggesting that AI will profoundly influence how work gets done. They also have been cutting down the size of teams and introducing AI-driven tools to boost productivity. Reports mention that Meta’s CFO, Susan Li, credited AI coding assistants for increasing engineering productivity by 30% since early 2025, showing AI’s growing importance.

    Consumer AI Innovations

    The company is also busy developing AI for its social platforms and products. Recently, they launched Muse Spark, the first model made by Meta’s Superintelligence Labs, which is an important step towards creating a personal superintelligence. This model is already integrated into the Meta AI app and website, with plans to extend its reach to mainstream apps like WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, Messenger, and even their AI glasses. These initiatives display Meta’s aim to leverage AI not just internally but also to enhance user experience across their ecosystem.

    Implications for Meta’s Future

    If Meta begins using this AI Zuckerberg on a wider scale inside the company, it could be a very clear sign that they want to explore how AI can fundamentally change management and internal operations. This creates a powerful symbol for their future plans about blending AI with leadership and how it might transform decision-making processes. The ongoing development reflects Meta’s ambition to rewrite how AI influences both how they ship products and how they run their business.

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  • Meta’s Crackdown Shuts Down 150,000 Scam-Center Accounts

    Meta’s Crackdown Shuts Down 150,000 Scam-Center Accounts

    Key Takeaways

    1. Meta removed over 150,000 accounts linked to criminal scam-center networks in Southeast Asia, marking a significant action against scams.
    2. The scam centers targeted individuals in the U.S., U.K., and Asia, involving various fraudulent activities like romance scams and investment fraud.
    3. This operation was a coordinated effort with law enforcement agencies, resulting in 21 arrests by the Royal Thai Police.
    4. Meta’s recent push is part of a larger anti-scam initiative, including new alerts and notifications to protect users on its platforms.
    5. In 2025, Meta removed over 159 million scam advertisements and 10.9 million accounts linked to scam centers, highlighting the ongoing issue of scams on social media.

    Meta has announced a significant international operation that resulted in the removal of over 150,000 accounts linked to criminal scam-center networks in Southeast Asia. This effort is described as one of their most substantial recent actions against scams. In a statement from March, Meta revealed that this enforcement surge was a collaborative effort involving its investigators, the Royal Thai Police, the FBI, the US Department of Justice’s Scam Center Strike Force, along with other law enforcement agencies.

    Targeting Global Scams

    The scam centers primarily focused on individuals in the United States, the United Kingdom, and various countries in Asia and the Pacific region. Meta pointed out that these networks were connected to extensive fraudulent activities, such as romance scams, investment and cryptocurrency fraud, deceptive job offers, and impersonation schemes aimed at pushing victims to private messaging platforms to steal their money.

    Extensive Account Disabling

    According to Meta, based on information provided by law enforcement, the company disabled over 150,000 Facebook and Instagram accounts that were either involved in or supporting the scam-center networks. Additionally, the Royal Thai Police Anti-Cyber Scam Center arrested 21 individuals as part of this larger operation.

    Coordinated Efforts and Global Support

    This March action was described as the second joint disruption week since December 2025. Meta noted that the previous operation led to the removal of around 59,000 accounts linked to similar scam-center activities, indicating that this latest effort was much larger. The company emphasizes that the collaborative enforcement work with governments and other companies is becoming increasingly aggressive and well-coordinated.

    In this latest push, Meta also received support from agencies in the UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, the Philippines, and Indonesia. This is significant, as scam-center networks based in countries like Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar frequently operate cross-border, utilize trafficked labor, and target victims globally rather than just within one region.

    Ongoing Anti-Scam Initiatives

    Meta connected this enforcement action to a larger anti-scam initiative across its platforms. In a different post from March 2026, Meta stated that it had recently rolled out new alerts for suspicious friend requests on Facebook, enhanced scam notifications in Messenger, and warnings about device-linking on WhatsApp to make it more difficult for scammers to take over accounts or pressure users into risky actions.

    Shedding Light on the Problem

    Meta also used this announcement to underscore the breadth of the scam issue on its platforms. The company reported that it removed over 159 million scam advertisements in 2025 and took down 10.9 million Facebook and Instagram accounts linked to criminal scam centers throughout that year.

    According to Meta’s statistics, it is evident how pivotal major social media platforms remain in both the proliferation and disruption of scam-center fraud. The company is leveraging the takedown of 150,000 accounts to support the argument that coordinated action between platforms and law enforcement can significantly impact these networks, even as the overall battle against organized online scams continues.

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  • Meta Unveils AI Tools to Combat Scammers and Safeguard Users

    Meta Unveils AI Tools to Combat Scammers and Safeguard Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. Meta is introducing new warnings on WhatsApp for device linking to protect users from scams.
    2. Facebook will implement alerts for suspicious friend requests to help users identify impersonation scams.
    3. The new tools are part of a broader strategy that uses AI to identify and disrupt scam activities across multiple platforms.
    4. Meta has removed over 159 million scam ads worldwide in 2025, with significant efforts in India to combat scams.
    5. Meta is collaborating with external organizations for awareness initiatives and has filed lawsuits against misleading advertisers in various countries.

    Meta has revealed a new suite of tools to combat scams on WhatsApp, Facebook, and Messenger. The company is leveraging AI technologies to enhance its ability to identify and disrupt fraudulent activities. In a post from March 11, Meta outlined updates such as device-linking warnings on WhatsApp, alerts for suspicious friend requests on Facebook, and improved detection systems targeting scam networks and misleading advertisers.

    Changes in WhatsApp and Facebook

    One of the key changes for users is on WhatsApp, where Meta is introducing new warnings related to device linking. This aims to protect users from being tricked into connecting their accounts to devices controlled by attackers. On Facebook, similar alerts for suspicious friend requests are being added to help users recognize impersonation and social-engineering scams before they interact with them.

    A Broader Strategy Against Scams

    Meta highlighted that these new tools form part of a larger strategy to address scams that are increasingly crossing over various services and employing more advanced methods to appear genuine. The company noted that as scammers continue to adapt their tactics, its defenses are being updated across multiple applications instead of just one isolated area.

    Moreover, Meta is implementing AI technologies to quickly identify and halt scam activities. This approach wasn’t described as a single new feature but rather as part of an extensive safety framework that includes automated detection, actions against scam ads, and collaborations with external agencies and organizations.

    Ongoing Efforts and Legal Actions

    The scale of the scam issue remains considerable, with Meta stating that in 2025, it removed over 159 million scam ads worldwide for breaching its policies. Specifically in India, Meta reported banning over 12.1 million scam-related ad pieces, with more than 93% being taken down proactively.

    In addition to these product updates, Meta continues to collaborate with external partners on awareness initiatives against scams. The company emphasized its partnership with India’s I4C and SEBI on the third edition of the “Scams se Bacho” campaign, which aims to enhance user knowledge about common online fraud methods.

    This announcement follows Meta’s recent actions against scams. In late February, the company disclosed that it had filed several lawsuits against misleading advertisers in Brazil, China, and Vietnam as part of its ongoing efforts to combat scam activities on its platforms.

    Scams are among the most persistent safety challenges on major online platforms, especially as fraudsters utilize AI tools, impersonation strategies, and cross-platform messaging to create convincing fake offers and urgent requests. Meta’s latest updates indicate that the company is attempting to tackle these issues from multiple angles: providing clearer warnings for users, enhancing automated detection systems, and increasing legal and collaborative enforcement efforts.

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  • Meta Tests AI Shopping Tool in the US for Enhanced User Experience

    Meta Tests AI Shopping Tool in the US for Enhanced User Experience

    Key Takeaways

    1. Meta is testing a new “Shopping research” feature within its AI web experience for select U.S. users.
    2. The feature provides product recommendations with images, prices, and links to external merchants but does not allow direct purchases.
    3. This testing phase has not been officially announced by Meta, and details about supported retailers are currently unavailable.
    4. Meta is enhancing AI-driven shopping support across its platforms, directing users to partner sites for purchases.
    5. The company is also exploring AI to improve advertising and messaging products, including AI assistants for advertisers.

    Meta is said to be testing a new shopping feature within the Meta AI web experience, available to select users in the United States. This feature is identified as a “Shopping research” option that shows up in the prompt box when using desktop browsers.

    How It Works

    When users request product recommendations, the tool reportedly provides a carousel of items featuring images, prices, and links to merchants or brands for further information. However, the current version does not allow users to complete purchases directly within Meta AI. Instead, users are directed to external websites for checkout, indicating that this tool is more about product discovery than a complete buying process.

    Testing Phase

    This feature is being labeled as a test rather than an official rollout, with at least one report noting that a Meta representative confirmed the company is evaluating the shopping tool. As of now, Meta has not released a specific press statement or product page for the “Shopping research” feature, which means information regarding supported retailers, ranking factors, and the extent of the rollout is not available in any official documents.

    Ongoing Developments

    Meta continues to enhance its AI-driven shopping support throughout its platforms, including Marketplace features that propose questions for sellers and provide AI-generated insights for certain listings. In many instances, buyers are still directed to partner sites for making purchases.

    In addition to these shopping advancements, Meta is also leveraging AI to boost business outcomes in its advertising and messaging products. This includes testing AI assistants for advertisers and enhancing business AI capabilities.

     

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  • Meta Signs AI Infrastructure Deal with AMD for Enhanced Performance

    Meta Signs AI Infrastructure Deal with AMD for Enhanced Performance

    Key Takeaways

    1. Meta and AMD have partnered to deploy up to 6 gigawatts of AMD Instinct GPUs for Meta’s AI infrastructure.
    2. The first 1-gigawatt deployment is set to begin in the latter half of 2026, using customized MI450 GPUs.
    3. The deployment will integrate MI450 GPUs with 6th generation EPYC CPUs and ROCm software.
    4. AMD’s performance-based warrant could lead to a 10% ownership stake in AMD if fully exercised.
    5. The partnership aims to enhance Meta’s AI infrastructure with greater flexibility by collaborating with multiple suppliers.

    Meta and AMD have announced a long-term partnership that will see the deployment of up to 6 gigawatts of AMD Instinct GPUs in Meta’s upcoming AI infrastructure. This agreement is part of Meta’s strategy to broaden its AI computing resources and ensure better alignment between its GPU/CPU technology, systems, and software.

    Deployment Timeline

    AMD plans to start shipping the first 1-gigawatt deployment in the latter half of 2026. This deployment will utilize a customized Instinct GPU based on AMD’s MI450 architecture. It will be integrated into the Helios rack-scale architecture, which the two companies have previously discussed in the context of the Open Compute Project.

    Technical Specifications

    The initial deployment will combine the MI450-based GPU with 6th generation EPYC CPUs, codenamed “Venice,” running on ROCm software. A noteworthy aspect of AMD’s announcement includes a performance-based warrant for up to 160 million AMD shares, which will vest as shipment milestones are achieved, beginning with the first gigawatt and scaling towards the full 6 gigawatts. There are also additional technical and commercial requirements that must be met.

    Reports from Financial Times and AP suggest that if the warrant is fully exercised, it could equate to a 10% ownership stake in AMD.

    Strategic Goals

    Meta emphasizes that this partnership aims to enhance its AI infrastructure by fostering greater flexibility and resilience through collaboration with multiple partners, instead of depending solely on a single supplier. Meanwhile, AMD characterizes the deal as a long-term ramp that encompasses GPUs, EPYC CPUs, and rack-scale systems tailored to meet Meta’s specific workloads.

    As major AI customers continue to secure long-term capacity amidst ongoing demand for accelerators and the expansion of new data centers, this agreement comes at a crucial time. The Financial Times has reported extensively on the scale of Meta’s anticipated AI infrastructure investments and its initiative to diversify its supplier network.

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  • Meta Smartwatch to Challenge Garmin, Apple, and Samsung by 2026

    Meta Smartwatch to Challenge Garmin, Apple, and Samsung by 2026

    Key Takeaways

    1. Meta’s first smartwatch, previously known for its dual-camera design, has undergone significant changes and is now expected to launch in 2026.
    2. The new design features a square screen with rounded corners, a selfie camera, and a rear camera, with a focus on health-tracking capabilities and AI.
    3. The smartwatch, dubbed “Malibu 2,” will be released before Meta’s mixed reality headset, indicating a strategic product rollout.
    4. Meta faces strong competition in the smartwatch market from established brands like Apple, Samsung, and Google, as well as specialized companies like Garmin.
    5. To differentiate itself, Meta aims to incorporate innovative AI functionalities into its smartwatch.

    Rumors about Meta’s first smartwatch, which is the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, have been going around for several years. An earlier version, which had two cameras, was reportedly abandoned in 2022. A year later, a leak disclosed the design of a Meta Watch V2, which is quite unique with a square screen and rounded corners, a selfie camera in a notch, and another camera located on the back.

    Innovative Camera Features

    The concept behind the smartwatch was that it could be removed from the wristband magnetically, allowing it to be used as a camera. In early 2025, Bloomberg mentioned that Meta planned to release a smartwatch the year before. Although the company didn’t quite manage to do that, The Information reports that it is anticipated to finally launch in 2026. The emphasis is reportedly shifting from cameras to health-tracking capabilities and AI.

    Competition in the Market

    This smartwatch, referred to as “Malibu 2,” is expected to come out before Meta’s upcoming mixed reality headset. Meta has seen success in the wearable market with products like the Meta Ray-Ban Wayfarer smart glasses. Nevertheless, the smartwatch arena is much more challenging, as major tech players like Apple, Samsung, and Google already have successful smartwatch lines, and brands like Garmin provide specialized alternatives. Meta is reportedly trying to set itself apart from these rivals by incorporating innovative AI functionalities.

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  • AI Simulation of Deceased Users Sparks Outrage on Reddit

    AI Simulation of Deceased Users Sparks Outrage on Reddit

    Key Takeaways

    1. Meta has a patent for a system that could replicate the social media presence of deceased or inactive individuals using AI language models.
    2. The technology could create deepfakes, mimicking text, voices, videos, and phone calls to keep the digital persona active.
    3. The concept raises ethical concerns about ownership of digital content and the rights of a person’s personality after death.
    4. Critics on platforms like Reddit describe the idea as “dystopian” and “immoral,” comparing it to themes from the show Black Mirror.
    5. Meta currently has no plans to implement this technology, but discussions about digital immortality are intensifying.

    In late 2025, Meta got a patent that has started a big discussion. This patent, filed in 2023, talks about a system that could keep social media accounts of people who have passed away or those who haven’t been active for a long time. This would use a large language model to study old posts, comments, likes, and messages to mimic a person’s way of writing and talking as closely as possible. The AI could even talk to others on its own, trying to make these chats seem real.

    Deepfake Features Raise Questions

    The abilities of the system to create deepfakes are quite controversial. The patent mentions that it could imitate not just text, but also voices, videos, and phone calls. In theory, a digital version of a person could keep chatting and answering questions after they have died. However, the patent doesn’t only center on death; it also considers cases of long periods of inactivity, like influencers who take breaks but still want to keep their online presence and reach their audience.

    Ethical Concerns and Ownership Issues

    Meta stresses that there are no current plans to actually implement this idea. Patents are often filed just to protect potential technologies for the future. Still, this concept brings up serious issues. Who would own the content made by AI after someone has died? How would the rights of a person’s personality be safeguarded after they pass? And how would people’s mental health be affected if they frequently interacted with a digital version of someone who is no longer alive?

    On Reddit, the patent has faced harsh criticism. One popular thread is packed with words like “dystopian,” “tasteless,” and “immoral.” Many users accuse Meta of trying to make money even after death. Some commenters mention the series Black Mirror, especially the episode “Be Right Back,” where a woman talks to an AI version of her deceased partner. What seemed like a grim fantasy is now at least technically possible. Whether Meta will actually bring this idea to life as a service is still up in the air. One thing is clear, though: the conversation around digital immortality has picked up speed again.

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