The Comunicano for Friday February 21st 2025

What A Week It Was

You hear what’s going on out there? The whole world is moving fast, and if you are not paying attention, you’re going to wake up broke, washed up, and crying into your coffee. That’s the game. That’s how it always is.

Take Amazon, right? These guys were running Chime like it was some big deal—competing with Zoom, acting like they would take over the whole video call racket. And now? Boom—gone. Just like that. No goodbyes, no sob stories, just a cold “we’re moving on.” That’s how the smart guys do it. They don’t waste time on losers; they cut ‘em loose and focus on the next big score—AI voice tech, Alexa’s getting a brain, and that’s where the money is. They don’t dwell. They pivot. That’s what keeps ‘em on top.

But then you got Amazon also taking over James Bond. Now, this one’s tricky. Bond’s been run by the same family for sixty years. That’s like taking over a made guy’s business. You don’t just walk in and start changing things unless you know exactly what you’re doing. Maybe they turn Bond into a powerhouse. Perhaps they turn him into some neutered, boardroom-approved stiff who spends more time apologizing than chasing bad guys. We’ll see. But if they screw this up, they’ll have a lot of pissed-off fans with pitchforks, and you do not want that kind of heat.

Then there’s Microsoft, always in the game, always making moves. They got this AI now that can generate gameplay—like, literally build the world for you as you go. That’s some wild sci-fi action, and they say it’s just a tool, not a replacement. But let’s be real—every guy in this business says that right before the machine takes over.

Meanwhile, CMOs and SaaS guys are tripping over themselves trying to figure out how to squeeze every last dime out of their customers. They’re not making better products, they’re just rearranging the price tags, hoping nobody notices. That’s a sucker’s move. The real winners? They know you make money by creating something people want, not by playing shell games with your pricing models.

Then there’s the AI war—OpenAI, DeepSeek, Musk’s Grok 3, all these guys throwing punches, trying to be the king of the hill. OpenAI’s got 400 million users and counting, but DeepSeek’s playing the “we’re open source” angle, which is like saying, Hey, we’re not just here for the money—we’re here for the people! Yeah, sure, buddy. We’ve all heard that before. And then Musk rolls in with Grok3, swinging, saying his AI is gonna be bigger, better, and less censored. You gotta love it—the guy never stops hustling.

But let’s not pretend everything’s clean. The deepfake game is getting really ugly. Some scamsters are making fake nudes of high school kids now. That’s not business. That’s the kind of thing that gets guys put in prison (or worse). And yet, here we are, watching AI get used for this kinda garbage while the smart guys are out there making billions with it. It’s like anything else—some guys use it to build empires, some guys use it to ruin lives.

And don’t even get me started on Meta. They’re throwing out fact-checkers and saying, Hey, let the people decide what’s true. That’s like a bookie letting the gamblers set the odds. It’s chaos, and maybe that’s the plan—nobody can keep track of what’s real and what’s not.

Meanwhile, Nike’s in bed with Skims. Yeah, that’s right—Nike and Kim Kardashian are teaming up. Once upon a time, Nike was about winners, about athletes, about being the best. Now? They’re slapping their logo on shapewear. Maybe it’s smart, maybe it’s selling out. Either way, there’s money in it, so they don’t care.

And through all this, the Saudis are playing their own game, throwing cash at startups but making them set up shop in the Kingdom. That’s the thing about money—it never comes free. There’s always a catch, always a string attached, and if you don’t see it coming, you’ve already lost.

So what’s the takeaway? The game’s always changing. The ones who keep moving, who know when to cut their losses and when to double down, they’re the ones who stay on top. The rest? They get left behind. There’s no mercy in this business. You either adapt, or you disappear. That’s just how it works. And that’s why I’m here. To keep you in the game, by reading, THE COMUNICANO!!!

Andy Abramson

Amazon Watch

Amazon to Discontinue Chime, Its Zoom Alternative (TechCrunch)—Amazon has announced plans to end support for its unified communications service, Chime, on February 20, 2026. Effective immediately, the platform will no longer accept new customers. Chime, introduced in 2017, offered video conferencing, chat, and business calling features, positioning itself as a competitor to services like Zoom and Microsoft Teams. This move comes as Amazon shifts focus towards other strategic areas, including its upcoming Alexa generative AI voice service. The decision also follows the recent shutdown of Amazon's short-form video feature, Inspire, earlier this week. Read more here

Amazon Assumes Creative Control of James Bond Franchise (Deadline)—In a landmark move, Amazon MGM Studios has acquired creative control over the James Bond franchise from long-time producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson. This transition marks the end of the Broccoli family's six-decade stewardship of the iconic spy series. While Broccoli and Wilson will retain co-ownership, Amazon MGM will oversee the creative direction, including casting and content decisions. This shift follows Amazon's $8.45 billion acquisition of MGM in 2022, aiming to revitalize and expand the Bond universe under its umbrella. Read more here

Microsoft Watch

Microsoft's Xbox AI Era Starts with a Model That Can Generate Gameplay (The Verge)—Microsoft's Muse AI model, developed in collaboration with Ninja Theory, can generate gameplay environments and react to player interactions. The model, trained on extensive gameplay data, aims to enhance creativity in game development without replacing creators. It's part of Microsoft's effort to integrate AI in gaming and preserve classic games. Read More Here

Microsoft Prepares for GPT-5 and GPT-4.5 (Beebom)—Microsoft is ramping up its AI investments as it gears up for the anticipated releases of GPT-4.5 and GPT-5. While GPT-4.5 is expected to be an incremental improvement, GPT-5 could introduce significant leaps in reasoning and multimodal capabilities. Microsoft, OpenAI’s biggest backer, is integrating these models deeper into Windows, Office, and Azure services. With the AI arms race intensifying, Microsoft aims to maintain its edge against Google, Anthropic, and xAI. Read more here

SaaS Watch

The Good, Bad, and Ugly of SaaS Pricing Changes (Growth Unhinged)—In 2025, SaaS companies are shifting from access-based to outcome-based pricing models. Notable trends include steep increases in individual plan prices, making higher-tier plans more appealing, and introducing introductory discounts to attract new customers. Additionally, companies are adding new enterprise plans to monetize upmarket customers. This evolution reflects a strategic move towards value-based pricing, aligning costs more closely with the benefits delivered to customers. Read more here

OpenAI Watch

OpenAI Tops 400 Million Users Despite DeepSeek's Emergence (CNBC)— OpenAI has reached over 400 million weekly active users, growing by 33% in three months despite competition from DeepSeek. The growth is attributed to increased utility and word-of-mouth promotion of ChatGPT. OpenAI's enterprise business is also expanding, with 2 million paying users. The company faces competition and legal challenges but continues to innovate and grow.
Read More Here

OpenAI Expands 'Operator' AI Agent to Global Users (Silicon UK)—OpenAI has extended the availability of its AI agent, 'Operator,' to ChatGPT Pro subscribers in countries including the UK, Australia, Japan, and India. Initially launched in the United States in January 2025, Operator automates routine web tasks such as online shopping, booking reservations, and form completion by utilizing its own web browser. Currently, Operator operates through a dedicated webpage and is accessible exclusively to users subscribed to the $200-per-month ChatGPT Pro plan. OpenAI is working to expand Operator's availability to the European Union and other regions. Read more here

DeepSeek Watch

DeepSeek to Open Source AI Model Code, Reinforcing Commitment to Transparency (Reuters)—Chinese AI startup DeepSeek has announced plans to publicly release the code for five of its AI model repositories next week, enhancing its dedication to open-source artificial intelligence. This initiative follows the company's recent release of the R1 reasoning model, which matched Western AI systems in performance while being developed at a lower cost. Founder Liang Wenfeng emphasized that open source is more a cultural endeavor than a commercial one, aiming to earn respect and foster innovation. Additionally, DeepSeek introduced a new algorithm, Native Sparse Attention, to improve efficiency in long-context training and inference. The company's user base has grown significantly, with 22.2 million daily active users as of January 11, surpassing Douban's 16.95 million users. Read more here

AI Watch

Chinese Air Force Integrates AI in Pilot Recruitment (Zona Militar)—The People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) has modernized its pilot recruitment by incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) into the 2025 selection process. This initiative aims to enhance candidate assessment accuracy through advanced technologies and algorithms. The introduction of new weapon systems necessitates higher physical and psychological standards for pilots, who must manage the complexities of modern fighter jets. AI assists in medical and psychological evaluations by analyzing data to interpret physical signals, uncover psychological traits, and predict long-term risks, thereby identifying talented candidates and filtering out those with hidden deficiencies. Read more here

AI's Growing Role in Software Development (The New York Times)—Artificial intelligence is increasingly transforming software development by automating coding tasks traditionally performed by human engineers. Tools like OpenAI's Codex and Cognition AI's Devin AI can generate code snippets from natural language descriptions, expediting the development process. While these AI systems enhance efficiency, they also raise questions about the future role of software engineers. Some experts suggest that as AI handles routine coding tasks, human developers may shift focus to more complex problem-solving and system design. However, concerns persist regarding job displacement and the need for continuous adaptation in the evolving tech landscape. Balancing AI integration with human expertise will be crucial in shaping the future of software engineering. Read more here

Is AI Making Us Less Intelligent? (The Telegraph)—A recent study highlights concerns that reliance on artificial intelligence (AI) may diminish human critical thinking. Researchers found that knowledge workers using AI tools exhibited lower levels of critical engagement, potentially leading to overreliance and reduced problem-solving skills. This phenomenon, known as "deskilling," suggests that as AI handles more tasks, human cognitive abilities may deteriorate. Historically, technological advancements have prompted similar fears, such as Socrates' concern that writing would weaken memory. The study emphasizes the need for mindful AI integration to preserve essential human skills. Read more here

AI Agents Are Already Changing Job Markets (Sifted.eu)—AI-powered job applications are emerging, as AI agents can now apply to thousands of jobs on behalf of candidates. Platforms like LazyApply and Sonara use AI to automate job-seeking, promising users a higher application rate with minimal effort. While some recruiters find this approach innovative, others argue it devalues the hiring process by flooding companies with generic applications. Additionally, some AI-powered assistants are even negotiating salaries on behalf of job seekers. As AI transforms hiring, companies may need to rethink how they evaluate applicants to filter out mass-generated resumes. Read more here

CMOs Hesitate on Generative AI Adoption (Marketing Dive)—A recent Gartner survey reveals that 27% of Chief Marketing Officers (CMOs) have minimal or no engagement with generative AI technologies. While 47% of those utilizing AI report significant benefits in areas like campaign evaluation and reporting, a notable portion remains cautious. High-performing organizations are leading the charge, with 84% employing AI for creative development and 52% for strategic planning. The reluctance among some CMOs stems from concerns over legal, ethical, and cost implications, suggesting that those not embracing AI may risk falling behind in the evolving marketing landscape. Read more here

AI and China’s Growth Ambitions (CNBC)—China is betting on AI-driven growth, with DeepSeek leading efforts to advance local large language models (LLMs). By focusing on AI adoption across industries, China aims to close the gap with Western tech giants. The government has also introduced policies encouraging AI startups, while enterprises are integrating AI into operations to boost productivity. However, U.S. trade restrictions on advanced chips present challenges for China's AI ambitions. Still, with a growing ecosystem of AI companies, China sees this as a strategic sector for economic expansion. Read more here

Elon Musk’s Grok 3 vs. OpenAI’s GPT-4: A New Rivalry? (ReadWrite)—Elon Musk’s xAI has launched Grok 3, its latest AI model, positioning it as a competitor to OpenAI’s GPT-4. Grok 3 reportedly excels in real-time information retrieval and personalized responses, with tighter integration into the X platform (formerly Twitter). While it still lags behind GPT-4 in overall performance, Musk’s goal is to challenge OpenAI by focusing on freedom from censorship and enhanced contextual awareness. The AI race continues, with xAI promising rapid advancements in its next iteration, Grok 4. Read more here

Fake Explicit Photos of Melbourne High School Students Spread Online (The Age)—A disturbing case of AI-generated deepfake images has surfaced in Melbourne, where explicit fake photos of high school students were circulated online. Authorities are investigating, as students and parents express outrage over privacy violations and psychological harm. The case highlights growing concerns over AI’s misuse in generating non-consensual explicit content, prompting calls for stronger digital safety regulations. Law enforcement is urging social media platforms to act swiftly in removing harmful content and tracking perpetrators. Read more here

Meta Watch

Meta's $50M Creator Fund (RoadToVR)—Meta announced a $50 million fund to boost content creation in Horizon Worlds, aiming to address the challenges VR studios face. This fund is part of Meta's broader strategy to advance its metaverse vision. Creators will receive bonuses based on engagement and retention. Read More Here

Meta Replaces Fact-Checking with Community Notes System (New York Post)—Meta is ending its U.S. fact-checking program and replacing it with "Community Notes," a user-driven moderation system similar to Elon Musk’s X (formerly Twitter). This change shifts content oversight from independent fact-checkers to the public, raising concerns about misinformation and hate speech. Critics argue that user-generated notes may lead to inconsistent moderation. The shift aligns with Meta's broader policy changes, including relaxed restrictions on certain topics and relocating trust and safety teams to Texas. The impact on platform integrity and user trust remains uncertain. Read more here

Nike Watch

Nike and Skims Collaborate to Launch New Women's Brand (Fast Company)—In an unprecedented partnership, Nike and Kim Kardashian's Skims are set to introduce NikeSkims, a new line of women's apparel, footwear, and accessories debuting this spring. This collaboration aims to blend Nike's performance-driven design with Skims' focus on body inclusivity and style. The collection will feature training apparel, footwear, and accessories designed to meet the unique needs and preferences of women athletes worldwide. The initial launch is scheduled for the United States, with a global rollout planned for 2026. This venture marks the first time Nike has created a new brand in collaboration with an external company, signaling a strategic move to engage a broader female audience in the sports and fitness industry. Read more here

Money Watch

Saudi Investment in European Startups Comes with Localisation Strings Attached (Sifted.eu)—Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), managing nearly $1 trillion in assets, is shifting its investment focus inward, significantly reducing overseas funding. European tech startups seeking Saudi capital are now expected to establish a local presence in the Kingdom. For instance, Wa’ed, the VC arm of Saudi Aramco, mandates that companies open an office in Saudi Arabia to receive funding. While this strategy fuels local innovation, it raises concerns among European founders about regulatory complexities and operational challenges. Saudi Arabia aims to position itself as a global tech hub, but these conditions may limit its attractiveness. Read more here

TravelTech Watch

American Airlines to Add AirTag Tracking to Baggage System (MacRumors)—American Airlines is integrating Apple’s AirTag technology into its baggage tracking system, allowing passengers to receive real-time location updates on their checked luggage. This move aims to reduce lost baggage incidents and improve customer experience. While AirTags have been popular among travelers for personal tracking, American Airlines is the first major U.S. carrier to directly incorporate the tech into its own system. The airline hopes this will set a new industry standard for baggage handling. Read more here

Canada Moves Forward With High-Speed Rail From Quebec to Toronto (CBC)—Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has announced plans for a high-speed rail system connecting Quebec City and Toronto, a long-awaited infrastructure project aiming to reduce travel times and cut emissions. The train, expected to reach speeds of up to 200 km/h, will provide a greener alternative to air and road travel. While the project has been in discussion for decades, the government now appears committed to pushing it forward. Critics, however, argue that the rail should be fully high-speed, similar to European and Asian systems, rather than the proposed "higher-speed" model. Read more here