U.S. Based Users can call ChatGPT from any phone with OpenAI’s new 1-800 voice service

OpenAI has introduced a new service allowing users in the United States to interact with ChatGPT via a toll-free number, 1-800-CHATGPT (1-800-242-8478). This initiative aims to make AI more accessible, especially for those without smartphones or computers. Callers can engage in live, interactive conversations with ChatGPT, which responds in a human-like voice. Each call is limited to 15 minutes per month per phone number.

Additionally, international users can text ChatGPT through WhatsApp using the same number. OpenAI emphasizes that these interactions may be reviewed for safety purposes but will not be used to train large language models.

The Growth of Weight Loss Drugs Market

The global weight loss drug market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing demand and the introduction of new medications. Analysts project substantial expansion in the coming years. Morgan Stanley anticipates the market could grow more than 15-fold, reaching ~$80B by 2030, with potential to rise as high as $144B USD.

The increasing demand has led pharmaceutical companies to invest heavily in production capabilities. For instance, Novo Nordisk has been operating its facilities continuously to meet the high demand for semaglutide, budgeting $6 billion in 2024 for expansion and hiring over 10,000 new employees in 2023. This growth is attributed to the rising prevalence of obesity worldwide and the development of effective weight loss medications, such as GLP-1 receptor agonists. These drugs not only aid in weight reduction but also offer benefits for related conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

China orbits first Guowang Internet satellites, with thousands more to come & EU Plans $11 Billion in Satellites in Counter to Musk’s Starlink

Both China and the European Union (EU) have advanced their plans to develop independent satellite internet networks, aiming to reduce reliance on existing services like SpaceX's Starlink.

China's Qianfan Constellation: China successfully launched the initial satellites for its Qianfan (Spacesail) constellation, a low-Earth orbit satellite network intended to provide worldwide internet coverage. The project plans to deploy over 15,000 satellites, with 648 expected by the end of 2025. This initiative seeks to enhance data security and potentially support military communications, mirroring Starlink's role in global connectivity.

EU's Iris² Network: The European Union committed to building its own satellite network, named Iris², with an investment of €10.6 billion ($11.1 billion). The constellation will comprise 290 satellites in low and medium-Earth orbit, aiming to deliver high-speed internet to remote areas by 2030. This move addresses concerns over dependence on Starlink, which currently operates around 7

The most downloaded iPhone and iPad apps of 2024 – including a controversial top free choice

Apple has unveiled the most downloaded apps, games, and Apple Arcade titles in the US for 2024, featuring free and paid apps for iPhones and iPads. Here are the highlights:

Top Apps

• Most Downloaded Free iPhone App: Temu (Chinese shopping app) leads despite widespread distrust (94% of survey respondents cited concerns).

• Most Downloaded Paid iPhone App: Shadowrocket, a proxy utility similar to VPNs, also ranked third among paid iPad apps.

• Free iPad Apps: Popular platforms like YouTube, Netflix, Disney Plus, and TikTok dominate, while Threads, ChatGPT, Instagram, and WhatsApp lead for iPhones.

Top Games

• Free iPhone Game: Block Blast tops the chart, followed by Monopoly Go and Roblox.

• Paid iPhone Game: Minecraft claims first place, with Heads Up and Geometry Dash trailing.

• Free iPad Game: Roblox takes the lead.

• Paid iPad Games: Minecraft and Geometry Dash top the list, followed by Five Nights at Freddy's and Stardew Valley.

Apple Arcade

The most popular game on Apple Arcade is NBA 2K24 Arcade Edition, followed by Snake.io+ and Hello Kitty Island Adventure.

Takeaway: While established names dominate, viral sensations like Temu and long-standing favorites like Minecraft continue to capture users' attention. The lists highlight opportunities to explore new and trending apps and games.

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