The Comunicano for Thursday June 5th 2025
Thinking Thursday
You can feel it, can’t you? The tectonic plates are shifting again.
We are living in a moment where intelligence—artificial, creative, personal—is not just being invented. It's being distributed. Diffused. Embedded. Everywhere. In the hands of creators who once needed a studio, now armed only with a phone and an idea. In the hearts of companies that once sought control, now realizing that collaboration is the new currency.
Influence isn’t purchased anymore. It’s co-created. Brands are waking up to the idea that trust is not a transaction—it’s a relationship. And relationships don’t come from shouting over people. They come from building with them.
Design itself is becoming a language of belief. Dark mode isn’t just a palette. It’s a posture. A way of signaling that you’re building for tomorrow, not clinging to yesterday. But futurism isn’t just about looking the part. It’s about making things work for people in ways they didn’t know they needed yet.
We’re also watching the walls of creation fall. Software isn’t written just by engineers anymore—it’s sketched, sculpted, spoken into being by anyone with intent. AI isn’t replacing people—it’s amplifying them. That’s what tools do. The right ones make you more of yourself.
Of course, there are shadows. Legal battles over data. Ethical lines tested in Hollywood. Systems that learn from everything—but forget to ask permission first. And always, always, the fear: Will this new intelligence work for us, or against us?
But I believe—still—that when we align technology with human values, we don’t just get progress. We get meaning.
That’s why we keep going. Why we keep asking: What’s next? Not because we’re chasing novelty. But because we believe in the potential of people empowered by tools that serve them, not the other way around.
And if we get that right. If we build with humility, with clarity, and with respect for those who use what we make, then maybe, just maybe, we don’t just invent the future. We invent for others.
We deserve it. So do you. Which is why you’re receiving THE COMUNICANO!!!
Andy Abramson
Creator Watch
Effective Creator Marketing Requires Authenticity and Collaboration (Rolling Stone)—In the evolving landscape of influencer marketing, brands are discovering that genuine collaboration with creators yields more impactful results than traditional endorsements. Instead of merely paying influencers to promote products, successful campaigns involve co-creating content that resonates with the creator's audience. This approach fosters authenticity, as creators maintain their unique voice and style, leading to increased trust and engagement from their followers. Brands that prioritize long-term partnerships and value the creative input of influencers are better positioned to build meaningful connections with consumers in today's digital age. Read more here
Brand Watch
Should You Dark Mode Your Brand to Be AINative (Carilu.com)—Carilu Dietrich explores the growing trend of AInative companies adopting dark mode aestheticsblack backgrounds, light text, and neon accentsas a visual signal of technological sophistication. This design language, seen in platforms like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Perplexity, aims to communicate futurism and advanced intelligence. Yet, not all brands follow suit. Companies like Anthropic and Cohere opt for lighter palettes to stand apart from competitors embracing the noir look. Dietrich encourages brands to ask if their visual identity reflects their AI positioning and customer expectations, noting that aesthetic choices now carry weight in how techforward a company appears. Read more here
Travel Watch
TSA Explores VR Pat-Downs with Haptic Feedback Gloves (404 Media)—The Department of Homeland Security and TSA are developing a virtual reality system that enables agents to perform pat-downs without physical contact. Using VR goggles and haptic feedback gloves, the technology maps a person's body contours through sensors like millimeter wave, LiDAR, or backscatter X-ray. This data is then translated into tactile sensations for the agent, simulating touch in real time. While intended to enhance privacy and reduce invasiveness, concerns arise over the creation of detailed 3D body renderings and the subjective nature of virtual touch. The system remains conceptual, with patents dating back to 2022. Read more here
OpenAI Watch
OpenAI Challenges Court Order to Preserve All ChatGPT Logs (Ars Technica)—OpenAI is contesting a court mandate requiring the preservation of all ChatGPT user logs, including deleted conversations, citing significant privacy concerns. The company argues that this directive compromises user confidentiality and imposes substantial operational burdens. OpenAI emphasizes its commitment to user privacy and expresses apprehension about the implications of retaining extensive user data. The legal dispute underscores the tension between regulatory demands and the protection of user information in the realm of artificial intelligence. Read more here
Anthropic Watch
Reddit Sues Anthropic Over Unauthorized Data Use (TechCrunch)—Reddit has filed a lawsuit against AI startup Anthropic, alleging unauthorized use of Reddit's data to train its Claude AI models. The complaint, lodged in a Northern California court, claims Anthropic scraped Reddit's content over 100000 times without a licensing agreement, violating Reddit's user agreement. Reddit emphasizes that, unlike OpenAI and Google, which have formal data licensing deals with Reddit, Anthropic refused to engage in such agreements. The lawsuit seeks compensatory damages and an injunction to prevent further use of Reddit's data by Anthropic. Anthropic denies the allegations and plans to defend itself vigorously. Read more here
AI Watch
The Personalization of Software (Digital Native)—In The Personalization of Software, Rex Woodbury discusses the shift from generic massmarket applications to personalized software experiences enabled by advancements in AI. He highlights how platforms like Lovable empower individuals without technical backgrounds to create tailored applications rapidly. Woodbury argues that as AI reduces the cost and complexity of software development, users can expect more customized tools that cater to their specific needs, marking a departure from the onesizefitsall approach of traditional software. Read More Here
Washington Post Launches AI-Powered Platform for Amateur Opinion Writers (AV Club)
The Washington Post is introducing a new initiative, internally dubbed "Ripple," aimed at democratizing opinion writing by enabling amateur writers to submit columns with assistance from an AI tool named Ember. Ember functions as a writing coach, offering features like a "story strength" meter and a sidebar outlining key story components such as thesis, supporting points, and conclusions. Additionally, an AI assistant provides prompts and developmental questions to guide contributors. While the AI aids in the writing process, all submissions will undergo review by human editors before publication. These articles will be accessible without a subscription and will be featured separately from the traditional opinion section. The project is set to launch partnerships during the summer of 2025, with Ember integration slated for testing in the fall. Read more here
Asteria Film Champions Ethical AI in Hollywood Productions (TechSpot)—Asteria Film, co-founded by Bryn Mooser and Natasha Lyonne, is pioneering the use of ethical AI in Hollywood by developing an AI model named Marey, trained exclusively on licensed material with compensation for creators. This approach addresses industry concerns about unauthorized use of content in AI training. Marey assists animators by handling complex tasks like animation and background creation while preserving the artist's unique style, thereby reducing production costs and maintaining creative control. As Hollywood grapples with the integration of AI, Asteria's model offers a blueprint for balancing technological advancement with respect for creators' rights. Read more here
Google Watch
Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai Emphasizes AI as a Job Accelerator (TechCrunch)—In a Bloomberg interview Wednesday night in downtown San Francisco, Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai pushed back against concerns that AI could eventually make half the companys 180000person workforce redundant. Instead, Pichai stressed the companys commitment to growth through at least next year. I expect we will grow from our current engineering phase even into next year, because it allows us to do more, Pichai said, adding that AI is making engineers more productive by eliminating tedious tasks and enabling them to focus on more impactful work. Rather than replacing workers, he referred to AI as an accelerator that will drive new product development, thereby creating demand for more employees. Read more here
Apple Watch
Apple Intelligence Rollout in China Delayed Amid Trade Tensions (Cult of Mac)—Apples muchanticipated launch of Apple Intelligence in China has been indefinitely delayed as the companys AI partnership with Alibaba faces regulatory roadblocks tied to the intensifying trade war between the United States and China, according to a new report. Apple has been working closely with Chinese ecommerce leader Alibaba to bring its suite of generative AI features to iPhones in the critical Chinese market. But their joint applications remain stuck in regulatory limbo at Chinas Cyberspace Administration CAC. The delays stem from increasing political uncertainties between the two nations as President Donald Trumps trade policies continue to strain bilateral relations, according to Financial Times. Chinese regulations prevent Apple from using its own AI technology for Apple Intelligence within the country, forcing the company to rely on locally developed models from partners like Alibaba. This requirement has already contributed to delays in expanding Apple Intelligence to China. That leaves the iPhone maker at a significant disadvantage in one of its most important markets.Read more here
Mobile Watch
OnePlus Pad 3 Debuts with Snapdragon 8 Elite and Enhanced Multitasking (The Verge)—OnePlus has unveiled the Pad 3, its latest tablet featuring the highend Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, marking its first launch outside China with this processor. The device boasts a large 132inch LCD display with a 144Hz refresh rate and 34K resolution, while remaining sleek at only 597mm thick. Available configurations include 12GB or 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, powered by a substantial 12140mAh battery supporting 80W charging. Notable hardware updates include a redesigned rear camera and optional accessories like a keyboard and stylus. It runs Android 15 with enhanced multitasking capabilities and seamless connectivity features for OnePlus users, including smart file sharing and device synchronization. Additionally, Mac users benefit from remote control functionality via O Plus Connect. The Pad 3 starts at €599 £529 685 and will be available in the UK and Europe from June 19, with a US release forthcoming. OnePlus assures three OS updates and six years of security support. Notably, many of the new software features are also scheduled for the Pad 2. Read more here:
Dating Watch
Match Group CEO Aims to Revamp Tinder for Gen Z (Fortune)—Spencer Rascoff, the new CEO of Match Group, is implementing changes to Tinder to better appeal to Gen Z users, who are increasingly seeking meaningful connections over casual encounters. Recognizing the shifting preferences of this demographic, Rascoff plans to introduce features like a double dating option and enhanced safety measures. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to reposition Tinder as a platform for intentional relationships, moving away from its hookup app image. Rascoff's approach includes integrating AI and prioritizing user experience even at the expense of shortterm profits. Read more here
Robot Watch
Amazon Tests Humanoid Robots for Package Delivery (Interesting Engineering)—Amazon is preparing to test humanoid robots for package delivery, aiming to automate the final step of its logistics chain. According to a media report, Amazon is finishing construction of a humanoid parkan indoor obstacle course at one of its San Francisco officeswhere it will soon begin testing the robots. In a series of announcements, Amazon also showcased how AI will enhance its stockroom robots, delivery operations, and vast warehouse network to accelerate package deliveries. Last month, Amazon deployed Vulcan, its first robot equipped with a sense of touch, at a fulfillment center in Dortmund, Germany. Read more here
WhatsApp Watch
WhatsApp Introduces AI Studio for Custom Chatbot Creation (9to5Mac)—WhatsApp is getting its own version of OpenAIs Custom GPTs, Google Geminis Gems, and so on. These are custommade chatbots that can be created without a single line of code and with whom the user can have conversations afterward. According to WABetaInfo via Tecnoblog, the feature is currently rolling out to a small number of WhatsApp beta testers on iOS and Android. It introduces a new section called AI Studio, which walks users through the creation of a personalized assistant, a fun character, etc. The apps upcoming AI Studio is designed to be approachable for users with no technical experience. Chatbots will be private by default, but users will have the option to share them via a unique link, much like OpenAI and Googles counterparts. Read more here
Uber Watch
DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub Settle With NYC Over Fee Cap Law (Reuters)—New York City has reached a settlement with DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub over a legal battle stemming from its pandemicera cap on delivery fees. The law limited delivery fees to 15 percent and other charges to 5 percent, but the platforms sued when the cap became permanent. Under the settlement, the city agrees to consider modifying the law, and the companies will drop their lawsuit. The outcome may shape how cities balance gig economy regulation with small business support in the postpandemic landscape. Read more here
Lime Extends Uber Partnership to Boost Global Reach This Summer (The Verge)—Lime has extended its longtime partnership with Uber, locking in a multiyear deal to keep its scooters and bikes integrated into the Uber app across North America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. The two firms first teamed up in 2018 and grew closer in 2020 when Uber invested 170 million and handed off its Jump bike business to Lime. Now, Uber owns 29 percent of Lime and continues to benefit from micromobility demand surging in urban areas. As part of the agreement, Uber One members get 10 percent back in Uber Cash when they use Lime vehicles. Lime is also expanding into new markets like Barcelona and Mexico City, with a goal to deploy 15000 new LimeBike and LimeGlider vehicles globally. In May, Lime hit a milestone of 1 million daily rides for two days straight and has completed over 800 million trips since launching in 2017. Read more here
eCommerce Watch
Shein Accused of Manipulative Tactics in EU Complaint (Reuters)—Fastfashion giant Shein is under fire from the European consumer group BEUC, which filed a formal complaint alleging the company uses manipulative dark patterns on its app and website to drive excessive purchasing. These include endless scrolling, countdown timers, and intrusive popups and notifications. BEUC also criticized Shein’s gamification features like Puppy Keep, which incentivize daily engagement. Twentyfive consumer groups across Europe back the complaint, urging EU authorities to investigate Shein and similar fast fashion platforms for exploitative digital practices. Shein claims it is cooperating but says BEUC declined meetings. Read more here
Cybersecurity Watch
AI Hacker Agents Are Already Here—And They’re a Real Threat (WIRED)—Hackers are using generative AI to build sophisticated malware with minimal skill, ushering in a new era of what researchers are calling vibe hacking. Tools like WormGPT and FraudGPT were early warnings, but the real shift is autonomous systems that can scan, exploit, and execute attacks at machine speed. AI isn’t just an accelerant—it’s changing how cyber threats evolve. Even wellmeaning AI researchers worry that bad actors using these tools could overwhelm traditional defenses, especially as these agents become more autonomous and scalable. Read more here
Trump Pardoned Corellium Founder Sells Startup to Cellebrite for 200M (Forbes)—Chris Wade, the founder of mobile security startup Corellium, is selling the company to Israeli digital intelligence firm Cellebrite for 200 million. Wade, who was pardoned by Donald Trump in 2021 for a prior hacking conviction, turned Corellium into a critical tool for mobile device emulation and iOS security testing. Cellebrite, known for its law enforcementfocused phone extraction tools, will gain access to Corellium’s advanced tech, strengthening its position in digital investigations. The deal highlights increasing law enforcement demand for deeper forensic access to iPhones and Android devices in the face of rising encryption and security barriers. Read more here
Game Watch
007 First Light A Glimpse into James Bonds Early Days (FandomWire)—IO Interactive finally unveils their longawaited James Bond origin story after years of development secrecy. Patrick Gibson steps into the role of a pre00 agent who hasnt earned his iconic status yet. The trailer showcases classic Bond elements while deliberately avoiding the polished spy we know from the films. 007 First Light presents James Bond as weve never seen him beforeyoung, unpolished, and desperately trying to prove himself worthy of MI6s most elite program. Patrick Gibsons Dexter Original Sin casting as this pre00 agent feels inspired, bringing a vulnerability that Daniel Craigs Bond never had. The Danish studio has spent years perfecting the art of espionage through their Hitman trilogy, and now theyre applying that expertise to create something genuinely fresh in the Bond universe. Read more here
Broadband Watch
HBCUs Struggle with Internet Access, Nonprofit Steps In (CNET)
Historically Black Colleges and Universities are grappling with poor internet infrastructure, which continues to limit students’ access to vital online tools and resources. A nonprofit initiative is stepping in to bridge the gap, targeting improvements in digital connectivity across these institutions. The goal is to provide stable, highspeed internet so students aren’t left behind in an increasingly techdriven academic world. The program also addresses inequities that have persisted for years, giving students at top Black colleges a fair shot at online education and opportunity. Read more here
Apps Watch
Middle East SuperApps Redefine Digital Convenience (Rest of World)—Tech companies across the Middle East are racing to develop superapps that combine everything from ridesharing and food delivery to banking and bill payment under one digital roof. Leading the charge are platforms like Careem, Botim, and Talabat, which are quickly expanding their reach by offering seamless, allinone services. These apps are tailored to local needs, integrating features like government payments and mobile wallets, and they represent a regional shift toward consolidated digital ecosystems where convenience drives engagement. Read more here
