Big tech’s scrambling to redefine what “intelligence” really means and Apple just threw its hat in the ring. This week, Jeff and Annie unpack how the AI race is shifting from hype to hard reality: where $2 billion startups launch products no one asked for, and Siri finally learns to sound… smart.

They dig into the new era of synthetic everything. From AI-generated videos that look eerily real, to Hollywood signing its first digital actress, to chatbots that can shop, parent, and summarize your inbox while you sleep.

We also cover:

• Why Apple’s “Veritas” project could finally make Siri useful.
• The $2B fine-tuning tool testing the limits of AI hype.
• How OpenAI’s Sora 2 and Meta’s Vibes are changing what “real” even means online.
• Whether regulation in California will slow AI  or save it.

Relevant links:

• Apple’s “Veritas” AI project for Siri revealed
• Thinking Machines Lab launches $2B fine-tuning API “Tinker
• OpenAI unveils Sora 2 AI video generator 
• Meta releases AI video app “Vibes”
• Xicoia Studio’s synthetic talent initiative
• OpenAI introduces ChatGPT parental controls
• ChatGPT “Pulse” personalized daily AI digest
• OpenAI Instant Checkout with Stripe integration
• Microsoft launches “Agent Mode” for Word & Excel
• JPMorgan Chase’s AI-powered banking blueprint 
• Periodic Labs builds the first AI scientist
• California passes first AI safety law
• Back to Episodes