Google Workspace has rolled out “Ask Gemini,” a new AI-powered meeting consultant integrated into Google Meet, designed to provide real-time assistance, catch up late joiners, and enhance productivity during video calls. Announced as part of Google’s ongoing AI expansions in Workspace, this feature leverages Gemini’s advanced capabilities to answer questions, summarize discussions, and extract key insights, making it an indispensable tool for business users and teams.

Ask Gemini acts as a private, on-demand consultant within Meet, allowing participants to query the AI about the ongoing conversation without disrupting the flow. Powered by Gemini’s multimodal AI, it draws from real-time captions, shared resources like Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides (with appropriate permissions), and public web data to deliver accurate responses. For example, users can ask, “What did Sarah say about the Q3 budget?” or “Summarize the action items discussed so far,” and receive tailored answers visible only to them. This is particularly useful for multitasking professionals or those joining late, where it can generate a personalized recap of missed segments, highlighting decisions, action items, and key points.

The feature builds on existing Gemini integrations in Meet, such as “Take Notes for Me,” which automatically transcribes, summarizes, and emails notes post-meeting. With Ask Gemini, note-taking becomes interactive: It links responses to specific transcript sections for deeper context, supports real-time caption scrolling during calls, and handles complex prompts like identifying trends or generating follow-up tasks. Available in over 30 languages, it also enhances accessibility with translated captions and adaptive audio for clearer sound in multi-device setups.

To enable Ask Gemini, hosts must activate the “Take Notes for Me” feature at the meeting’s start, and it’s turned on by default for participants—though hosts or admins can disable it. Responses remain private, with no post-call storage of data to prioritize security and compliance (GDPR, HIPAA). It’s initially rolling out to select Google Workspace customers on Business Standard ($12/user/month), Business Plus ($18/user/month), Enterprise plans, or with the Gemini add-on, starting January 15, 2025, for broader access.

Early feedback highlights its potential to save time—up to 20-30% on meeting follow-ups—while reducing cognitive load. In tests, it accurately recaps discussions and integrates seamlessly with Workspace apps, though some users note limitations in free tiers or for non-Workspace accounts (requiring Google One AI Premium). Compared to competitors like Zoom’s AI Companion or Microsoft Teams’ Intelligent Recap, Ask Gemini stands out for its deep Google ecosystem ties and real-time querying.

Admins can manage it via the Google Admin console under Generative AI > Gemini for Workspace > Meet, toggling features per organizational unit. For personal users, subscribe to Google One AI Premium and enable Smart features in Meet settings. As hybrid work persists, Ask Gemini positions Google Meet as a leader in AI-driven collaboration, turning meetings into efficient, insightful experiences. To try it, join a Meet call and look for the Gemini icon in the Activities panel—future updates may include more languages and integrations.

Zoom has significantly enhanced its AI Companion, a generative AI-powered digital assistant integrated into the Zoom Workplace platform, to serve as an intelligent note-taking tool and smart scheduler for meetings. Launched in late 2023 and continually updated, AI Companion is now available at no extra cost with all paid Zoom subscriptions (including Pro, Business, and Enterprise plans), making it accessible for over 300 million daily Zoom users worldwide. This update, detailed in Zoom’s recent product announcements, positions AI Companion as a comprehensive productivity booster, automating tedious tasks like transcription, summarization, and calendar management to help teams focus on collaboration rather than administration.

At its core, AI Companion acts as an AI note-taker that joins meetings automatically—whether on Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, WebEx, or even in-person via mobile devices. It provides real-time transcription, generates comprehensive summaries, and identifies key highlights, action items, and decisions without requiring manual intervention. For instance, during a call, users can jot quick thoughts, and the AI enriches them by expanding on important points, pulling in context from discussions, documents, or integrated apps. Post-meeting, it delivers a structured summary including who spoke the most, emotional tone analysis (e.g., positive or tense), and searchable transcripts in over 32 languages (now out of preview as of August 2025). This eliminates the “caffeinated chipmunk” typing sounds of manual note-taking, allowing full participation while ensuring no details are missed—even if you’re double-booked or step away briefly.

The smart scheduler functionality takes AI Companion further, transforming it into a proactive assistant. It analyzes meeting discussions to extract tasks and deadlines, then coordinates scheduling by checking calendars, suggesting optimal times, and even booking follow-up meetings directly. Integration with tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams allows automatic sharing of summaries and action items, streamlining team communication. For example, if a meeting uncovers next steps, AI Companion can draft emails, create to-do lists, or reschedule based on participant availability, reducing administrative overhead by up to hours per week. Advanced users can customize prompts for tailored outputs, such as generating reports in specific formats or integrating with CRM systems for sales teams.

To get started, enable AI Companion in your Zoom settings (under Account Management > AI Companion), and it will auto-join eligible meetings. For third-party platforms, a Custom AI Companion add-on (starting at $10/user/month) extends full capabilities. Zoom emphasizes privacy, with opt-in controls, no data training on user content, and compliance with GDPR and HIPAA. Early adopters in education, sales, and consulting report 20-30% time savings, with features like multilingual support aiding global teams.

While praised for its seamless integration, some users on Reddit note limitations in free tiers or complex customizations, recommending alternatives like Otter.ai or Fireflies for advanced analytics if Zoom’s native tool falls short. As AI evolves, Zoom’s updates— including expanded language support and agentic retrieval for cross-app insights—make AI Companion a frontrunner in meeting intelligence, rivaling standalone tools like tl;dv or Tactiq. For businesses, it’s a game-changer in hybrid work, turning meetings into actionable outcomes effortlessly.

At Meta Connect 2025 on September 17, Meta unveiled the Ray-Ban Display smart glasses, its first consumer AR eyewear with a built-in heads-up display (HUD), bundled with the innovative Meta Neural Band for gesture control. Priced at $799 for the set, these glasses represent a major evolution from previous audio-only Ray-Ban Meta models, bridging the gap to full augmented reality while maintaining Ray-Ban’s iconic style.

The Ray-Ban Display features a monocular, full-color 600x600p HUD projected onto the lower right lens, visible only to the wearer with less than 2% light leakage for privacy. It supports apps like Instagram, WhatsApp, and Facebook, displaying notifications, live captions, real-time translations, turn-by-turn directions, and music controls. The 12MP ultra-wide camera (122° field of view) enables 3K video at 30fps with stabilization, photo previews, and a viewfinder mode. Open-ear speakers and a six-microphone array handle audio, while a touchpad on the arm and voice commands via Meta AI provide additional interaction. Weighing 69g with thicker Wayfarer-style frames in black or sand, the glasses include Transitions® lenses for indoor/outdoor use and support prescriptions from -4.00 to +4.00. Battery life offers 6 hours of mixed use, extending to 30 hours with the charging case.

The standout accessory is the Meta Neural Band, a screenless, water-resistant EMG (electromyography) wristband that detects subtle muscle signals from brain-to-hand gestures—like pinches, swipes, taps, rotations, or virtual d-pad navigation with the thumb—without visible movements. It enables discreet control, even with hands in pockets or behind your back, and supports “air typing” by drawing letters on surfaces (e.g., your leg) for quick replies. With 18 hours of battery life, it fits like a Fitbit and comes in three sizes, making it ideal for seamless, intuitive interactions.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg described it as “the first AI glasses with a high-resolution display and a fully weighted Meta Neural Band,” emphasizing its role in ambient computing. The glasses connect via Bluetooth to iOS or Android devices, integrating with Meta apps for messaging, video calls (with POV sharing), and AI queries. While not full AR like the experimental Orion prototype, it overlays practical info on the real world, such as landmark details or navigation, without obstructing vision.

Available in standard and large frame sizes starting September 30 at select US retailers like Best Buy, LensCrafters, Sunglass Hut, and Ray-Ban stores (with global expansion planned), the set includes the glasses and band in shiny black or sand. In-person demos are recommended for fitting. This launch accompanies updates to Gen 2 Ray-Ban Meta glasses ($379, with improved cameras and battery) and Oakley Meta Vanguard performance glasses ($499, launching October 21).

Early reactions are enthusiastic. On X, tech builder Roberto Nickson (@rpnickson) called the Neural Band a “holy sh*t” moment, praising its intuitiveness but noting the display’s learning curve and AI’s room for improvement. Cheddar (@cheddar) shared a demo video, while @LisaInTheTrend highlighted real-time translation features. Hands-on reviews from The Verge and CNET describe it as the “best smart glasses yet,” though bulkier than predecessors, with potential to replace phones for errands once cellular is added. @captainatomIDC (@captainatomIDC) echoed the sentiment, predicting the end of the smartphone era.

Meta’s push into AI wearables, with millions sold since 2023, challenges Apple and Google, betting on neural interfaces for the next computing paradigm. Privacy features like minimal light leakage and gesture subtlety address concerns, but experts note the need for developer access to evolve the platform. As AR evolves, the Ray-Ban Display and Neural Band could redefine daily interactions, blending style with ambient intelligence.

At Meta Connect 2025 on September 17, Meta and Oakley announced the Oakley Meta Vanguard, a new line of “Performance AI” smart glasses tailored for high-intensity sports and outdoor activities. Priced at $499, these wraparound shades blend Oakley’s iconic athletic design with Meta’s AI technology, positioning them as a direct competitor to action cameras like GoPro while integrating real-time fitness tracking and hands-free content creation.

The Vanguard builds on the earlier Oakley Meta HSTN frames from earlier in 2025, which were more casual, by focusing on extreme performance needs. Featuring a 12MP ultra-wide camera (122-degree field of view) centered in the nosebridge for true POV capture, the glasses support 3K video at 30fps, electronic image stabilization, timelapse modes, and an action button for quick camera switches. Users can record mind-blowing moments hands-free during runs, bike rides, ski sessions, or workouts, with immersive open-ear audio for music or calls—up to 6 hours continuous playback or 9 hours daily use. The charging case adds 36 hours of battery life, and a full charge takes just 75 minutes, with IP67 water and dust resistance for rugged use.

Powered by Meta AI, the glasses offer “Athletic Intelligence” features, including real-time queries for performance stats. Through integrations with Garmin watches and Strava apps, users can ask for heart rate, pace, or elevation data via voice commands like “What’s my current pace?” without glancing at devices. Captured videos can overlay metrics graphically and share directly to Strava communities. Oakley’s Prizm lenses—available in variants like 24K, Black, Road, and Sapphire—enhance contrast and visibility in varying conditions, with a three-point fit system and replaceable nose pads for secure, customized wear.

Available in four color options (Black with Prizm 24K, White with Prizm Black, Black with Prizm Road, White with Prizm Sapphire), the glasses weigh 66g and evoke classic Oakley wraparounds, ideal for athletes but potentially bulky for everyday use. The Meta AI app manages settings, shares content, and provides tips, unlocking features like athlete connections. Pre-orders are live now via the Meta Store and Oakley.com, with shipping starting October 21 in the US, Canada, UK, Ireland, and select European and Australian markets.

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg highlighted the partnership with EssilorLuxottica (Oakley’s parent) as advancing wearable tech for sports, with endorsements from athletes like Patrick Mahomes, who called them “something completely new.” Hands-on reviews praise the secure fit and potential to replace ski goggles or earbuds, though some note the polarizing style. On X, users like @TechEnthusiast42 shared excitement: “Finally, smart glasses that won’t fog up mid-run! #OakleyMetaVanguard,” while @VRDaily hyped integrations: “Garmin + Strava in AR? Game-changer for cyclists.”

This launch expands Meta’s smart glasses lineup alongside Ray-Ban updates and display-equipped models, emphasizing AI for everyday athletics. As the metaverse evolves, the Vanguard could redefine how athletes capture and analyze performance, blending style, tech, and endurance.

Meta has officially launched Horizon Hyperscape Capture (Beta), a groundbreaking VR tool that allows users to scan real-world environments using their Meta Quest 3 or Quest 3S headset and transform them into immersive, photorealistic digital replicas. Announced at Meta Connect 2025 on September 17, this feature expands on the initial Hyperscape demo from last year, bringing the “holodeck” concept closer to reality by enabling anyone to create and explore hyper-realistic VR spaces from everyday locations.

Hyperscape leverages Gaussian splatting technology—a method that reconstructs 3D scenes from 2D images with high fidelity—to capture and render environments. The process is straightforward: Users point their Quest headset at a room or space for a few minutes to scan it, uploading the data to Meta’s cloud servers for processing. Within 2 to 4 hours, a notification arrives, and the digital twin becomes accessible in the Horizon Hyperscape VR app. Early demos showcased stunning recreations, such as Gordon Ramsay’s Los Angeles kitchen, Chance the Rapper’s House of Kicks sneaker collection, the UFC Apex Octagon in Las Vegas, and influencer Happy Kelli’s colorful Crocs-filled room. These spaces feel “just like being there,” with accurate lighting, textures, and spatial details that rival professional photogrammetry tools like Varjo Teleport or Niantic’s Scaniverse.

Currently in Early Access and rolling out in the US (with more countries soon), the feature is free for Quest 3 and 3S owners via the Meta Horizon Store. It requires a strong Wi-Fi connection for cloud streaming and processing. At launch, captured spaces are personal only, but Meta plans to add sharing via private links, allowing friends to join virtual hangouts in your scanned environments—perfect for remote collaboration, virtual tourism, or reliving memories. Developers can also use it to build more realistic metaverse experiences, from education and real estate virtual tours to enterprise digital twins, reducing the cost and complexity of creating immersive content.

The launch ties into broader Horizon updates at Connect 2025. Horizon Worlds now features faster performance via the upgraded Horizon Engine, enhanced 3D avatars, and generative AI for easier world-building. Horizon TV, Meta’s VR streaming app, is expanding with support for Disney+, ESPN, and Hulu, plus immersive effects for Universal Pictures and Blumhouse horror films like M3GAN and The Black Phone. A new fall VR game lineup includes Marvel’s Deadpool VR, ILM’s Star Wars: Beyond Victory, Demeo x Dungeons & Dragons: Battlemarked, and Reach.

Reactions on X (formerly Twitter) are buzzing with excitement. VR enthusiast Mikaël Dufresne (@purplemikey) called Connect 2025 “impressive,” praising Hyperscape as “cool tech” alongside avatar upgrades. Japanese creator VR創世神 Paul (@VRCG_Paul) shared a hands-on video of scanning a room, noting four demo spaces but upload issues—common beta hiccups. NewsBang (@Newsbang_AI) highlighted its potential to justify Meta’s valuation amid Reality Labs’ investments, while Visit Japan XR (@visit_japan_web) emphasized tourism applications. Reddit’s r/OculusQuest community echoes this, with users bypassing US restrictions via VPN to test it, though some report black screen bugs now resolved.

While promising, limitations include Quest 3 exclusivity (no Quest 2 support yet), processing delays, and privacy concerns over cloud uploads. Meta positions Hyperscape as a step toward a more tangible metaverse, blending physical and virtual worlds seamlessly. Download the demo or beta from the Meta Store to experience it—early adopters are already calling it a “glimpse of the future.”

Amazon unveiled an upgraded Seller Assistant, an AI agent designed to automate and optimize tasks for its third-party sellers, who account for over 60% of sales on the platform. Powered by Amazon Bedrock, Amazon Nova, and Anthropic’s Claude models, this “agentic” AI goes beyond simple chatbots by reasoning, planning, and executing actions with seller authorization—transforming it into a proactive business partner.

Here is the key Features and Capabilities

• Inventory and Fulfillment Optimization: The agent continuously monitors stock levels, identifies slow-movers, and suggests pricing tweaks or removals. It analyzes demand forecasts to recommend optimal shipment plans via Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA), balancing costs, speed, and availability.
• Account Health Monitoring: It scans for issues like policy violations, poor customer metrics, or compliance gaps in real-time, proposing and implementing fixes (e.g., updating listings) upon approval to prevent sales disruptions.
• Compliance Assistance: Handles complex regulations by alerting sellers to missing certifications during product setup and guiding document submissions, reducing errors in international sales.
• Advertising Enhancement: Integrated with Creative Studio, it generates tailored ad creatives from conversational prompts, analyzing product data and shopper trends. Early users report up to 338% improvements in click-through rates.
• Business Growth Strategies: Reviews sales data and customer behavior to recommend expansions, such as new categories, seasonal plans, or global markets, helping sellers scale efficiently.

Sellers interact via natural language in Seller Central, where the agent provides instant answers, resources, or automated actions—freeing up time for core business activities. For instance, it can coordinate inventory orders or draft growth plans autonomously.

Benefits for Sellers

This tool addresses pain points amid trade tensions and rising costs, like predicting demand to avoid overstocking. Sellers like Alfred Mai of Sock Fancy praise it as a “24/7 business consultant” that handles routine ops while keeping humans in control. By automating tedious tasks, it could save hours weekly, boost efficiency, and drive revenue—especially for small merchants competing in a volatile e-commerce landscape.

Rollout and Availability

Currently available at no extra cost to all U.S. sellers in Seller Central, with global expansion planned for the coming months. Additional features, like advanced analytics, will roll out progressively. Amazon positions this as part of broader AI investments, following tools like Rufus for shoppers.

As AI agents proliferate, this launch underscores Amazon’s push to retain seller loyalty amid competition from Shopify and Walmart. Early feedback highlights its potential, though some note the need for oversight to avoid over-reliance. For more, check Seller Central or Amazon’s innovation blog.

Google DeepMind researchers, led by Nenad Tomašev, published a paper on arXiv titled “Virtual Agent Economies,” exploring the rise of autonomous AI agents forming a new economic layer. The study frames this as a “sandbox economy,” where agents transact at scales beyond human oversight, potentially automating diverse cognitive tasks across industries.

The framework analyzes agent economies along two dimensions: origins (emergent vs. intentional) and permeability (permeable vs. impermeable boundaries with the human economy). Current trends suggest a spontaneous, permeable system, offering vast coordination opportunities but risking systemic instability, inequality, and ethical issues. The authors advocate for proactive design to ensure steerability and alignment with human flourishing.

Examples illustrate potential applications. In science, agents could accelerate discovery through ideation, experimentation, and resource sharing via blockchain for fair credit. Robotics might involve agents negotiating tasks, compensating for energy and time. Personal assistants could bid on user preferences, like vacation bookings, yielding concessions for compensation to prioritize high-value tasks.

Opportunities include enhanced efficiency and “mission economies” directing agents toward global challenges, such as sustainability or health. However, risks encompass market failures, adversarial attacks, reward hacking, and inequality amplification if access is uneven.

Key design proposals include auction mechanisms for resource allocation and preference resolution, ensuring fairness. Mission economies, inspired by Mazzucato’s work, could incentivize collective goals via subsidies or taxes. Socio-technical infrastructure is crucial: verifiable credentials for trust, blockchain for transparency, and governance for safety. The paper discusses integrating human preferences, addressing sybil attacks, and fostering cooperative norms.

Drawing from economics, game theory, and AI safety, the authors reference historical tech shifts and warn of parallels to financial crises. They emphasize collective action to manage permeability, preventing contagion while enabling beneficial integration.

This visionary paper calls for interdisciplinary collaboration to architect agent markets, balancing innovation with ethics. As AI agents proliferate—evidenced by systems in education, healthcare, and more—intentional design could unlock unprecedented value, steering toward equitable, sustainable outcomes.

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