Picture this: you’re scrolling through your phone, and a 15-second video of a dog attempting to skateboard has you grinning like an idiot. Thirty seconds later, you’re in a group chat with your best friends, laughing over an inside joke that only makes sense to you guys. Welcome to social media in 2025, where short-form videos and private group platforms are stealing the show—and honestly, it feels like they’re speaking straight to our souls.

Why Short-Form Videos Are Our New Obsession

Let’s be real: we’re all a little distracted these days. Between work, notifications, and the chaos of life, sitting through a 10-minute YouTube vlog feels like a commitment. That’s where TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Instagram Reels swoop in like superheroes. They’re quick, punchy, and somehow know exactly what we’re in the mood for—whether it’s a cooking hack, a dance fail, or a stranger’s heartfelt story.

By April 2025, these platforms are basically running the internet. TikTok’s got over 1.5 billion people hooked, and YouTube Shorts is racking up billions of views every single day. Social Media Today reported on TikTok’s massive growth, and it’s no surprise why. They’re so darn easy to love. You don’t need fancy equipment or a film degree to make something awesome—just a phone and a vibe. I mean, how many times have you watched a random person’s “day in my life” clip and thought, “Wow, I feel seen”?

There’s something raw about these videos, too. They’re not overly polished—they’re real, messy, human. That’s why we keep coming back, whether we’re laughing at a meme or tearing up over a stranger’s adoption story. Even brands are jumping in, with everyone from Starbucks to your local coffee shop posting Reels that feel like they’re chatting with you, not selling you something.

But let’s not pretend it’s all smooth sailing. For creators, standing out in the scroll is like trying to shout in a thunderstorm. And don’t get me started on making money—platforms like TikTok can be stingy with payouts, which is a bummer when you’re pouring your heart into every clip. Still, short-form videos are where the party’s at, and we’re all invited.

Private Groups: Where We Actually Feel at Home

Now, let’s talk about the flip side—those cozy corners of the internet where we can just be ourselves. I’m talking about private group platforms like WhatsApp, Discord, and Telegram, or even those invite-only Reddit threads and Meta Groups. These days, when I’m done doomscrolling X or dodging hot takes on Instagram, it’s my group chats and servers that pull me back in.

In 2025, WhatsApp’s got over 2 billion of us glued to our screens, mostly because of group chats that feel like family (or at least, the fun kind of family). Discord’s blowing up, too, with servers for everything from gaming to book clubs to “I just love plants, okay?” TechCrunch recently noted Discord’s skyrocketing popularity, and it’s easy to see why. It’s like the internet’s version of hanging out in your friend’s basement—no judgment, just vibes.

Why are we so obsessed? Because public social media can feel like a stage sometimes. You’re shouting into the void, hoping someone cares, but it’s exhausting. Private groups are different. They’re where you share the dumb memes, vent about your day, or geek out over your latest hobby without worrying about going viral or getting canceled. It’s you and your people, and that’s enough.

Businesses are catching on, too. I’ve seen brands pop into WhatsApp chats to answer questions or host giveaways on Discord like they’re one of us. Creators are doing it, too, setting up private spaces on Signal or Patreon where their biggest fans can hang out and feel special. It’s less about clout and more about connection, and I’m here for it.

Of course, it’s not perfect. Some groups can turn into echo chambers, where everyone just agrees and no one challenges anything. And yeah, privacy’s always a worry—nobody wants their group chat drama leaking. But when you find the right space, it’s like the internet equivalent of a warm hug.

What This All Means for Us

So here we are, bouncing between viral videos that make us laugh in seconds and group chats that make us feel known for years. Short-form videos are our quick fix—they’re fun, they’re real, they’re us on our best days. Private groups, though? They’re where we go when we need to recharge, to remind ourselves we’ve got people in our corner.

Picture this: you’re in Austin, maybe grabbing some BBQ downtown or strolling through Hyde Park, and you need a ride. You pull up the Uber app, and instead of a chatty driver pulling up in a Prius, a sleek, electric Jaguar I-PACE rolls up—nobody behind the wheel. That’s the futuristic vibe Waymo and Uber are bringing to the city starting in 2025, and behind the scenes, they’re splitting the profits in a hush-hush deal that’s got folks curious. Here’s the scoop on how these two tech giants are making it work—and what it means for regular people like us.

The Backstory: Two Companies, One Ride

Last September, Waymo (the self-driving wizards from Google’s parent company) and Uber (the ride-hailing king we all know) shook hands on a plan to roll out driverless cars in Austin. It’s not their first rodeo—they’ve been doing this in Phoenix for a while—but Austin’s a fresh playground. Starting early next year, Uber’s app will be your only way to book one of Waymo’s fancy autonomous rides here, covering a 37-square-mile chunk of the city from Montopolis to the heart of downtown.

So, how’s it all split up? Uber’s the one running the show day-to-day—keeping the cars clean, fixing them up, and making sure they’re ready to roll out of the depot. Waymo, meanwhile, is the brains behind the operation, handling the high-tech “Waymo Driver” system that steers these cars around without a human touching the wheel. They’re also on call for roadside rescues and answering rider questions like, “Uh, why’d the car just stop in the middle of Sixth Street?”

The Money Mystery

Now, here’s where it gets juicy: how do they split the cash from your ride? Neither company’s spilling the beans, but let’s break it down like we’re splitting a tab at a bar. Uber’s bringing its huge app audience—millions of us already use it—and the grunt work of managing a fleet. Waymo’s tossing in these pricey electric Jaguars and the sci-fi tech that makes them drive themselves. Some folks on X are guessing Uber might snag half the fare since they’re the face of the service, but Waymo’s not walking away with pocket change—they own the cars and the magic that powers them.

Think about it: when you pay, say, $15 for a ride from Zilker Park to East Austin, that money’s gotta cover the car’s upkeep, the tech, and a little profit for both sides. No driver means no one’s taking a cut like in a regular Uber ride, but those self-driving systems don’t come cheap. I’d bet they’ve worked out a deal that keeps both happy—maybe a 50-50 split, or something close, tweaked so Uber pushes these rides hard instead of nudging you toward a human driver.

What’s It Like to Ride?

For us regular folks, this is less about spreadsheets and more about the experience. Imagine hopping in—no awkward small talk, just you and a quiet, smooth ride. Waymo’s already doing 150,000 trips a week in places like Phoenix, and riders there say it feels safer and more reliable than a human driver on a bad day. In Austin, the cars will match UberX or Uber Comfort prices, so it’s not some luxury splurge—just a new twist on getting around.

I talked to a buddy who tried Waymo in Phoenix, and he said, “It’s weird at first, like the car’s haunted, but then you relax and enjoy it.” That’s the vibe they’re aiming for here. And with hundreds of these cars hitting Austin streets over time, you might start seeing them everywhere—zipping past food trucks or waiting silently outside a bar on Rainey Street.

The People Keeping It Rolling

Behind the curtain, there’s a human side too. Uber’s got folks at the depot scrubbing down seats and tightening bolts—not glamorous, but it keeps the wheels turning. Waymo’s engineers are probably burning the midnight oil, tweaking algorithms so the car doesn’t freak out when a biker cuts it off on Congress Avenue. And if you’re stuck wondering why your ride’s parked itself under a live oak, there’s a Waymo support person ready to sort you out over the phone.

Why It Matters to Austinites

This isn’t just tech nerd stuff—it’s a big deal for a city like Austin that’s growing fast and loves its quirky, forward-thinking vibe. No drivers could mean fewer cars clogging up I-35 (okay, we can dream), and the electric part’s a win for anyone who cares about cleaner air. Plus, it’s a chance for Uber to bounce back from ditching its own self-driving dreams a few years ago, while Waymo gets to show off its tech to every Austinite with an Uber app. Check out this Reuters piece for more on how it’s all coming together.

But it’s not all smooth sailing. Waymo’s had some hiccups—think unexpected stops or fender-benders—that have regulators keeping a close eye. If something goes wrong on Lamar Boulevard, people might hesitate to hop in next time. And the big question lingers: if the money split’s off, will one company start playing favorites with other options?

This leads to the official news that Snap Inc. is creating an ultra-advanced AI text-to-image model capable of running advanced image generation completely on a mobile device. The promise is a fully on-device model that powers many popular features, including AI Snaps and AI Bitmoji Backgrounds, in an experience far faster, much more efficient, and economical to its users. Here is all you should know about Snap's latest technological miracle.

A Pint-Sized but Powerful AI Model

Snap's new AI text-to-image model is built on top of an advanced diffusion model optimized for mobile devices. Unlike traditional text-to-image systems, which would require large-scale server infrastructure to operate, Snap's model operates entirely on the user's device. This eliminates any need to send computations to the cloud for processing, massively reducing computational cost and eliminating a number of the privacy concerns involved in sending user data to external servers.

It's also very fast, producing high-resolution imagery in about 1.4 seconds on a device like the iPhone 16 Pro Max, thanks to new training techniques and a compact design that transfers rich representations from larger diffusion models into a more compact and efficient framework. Snap has underscored that this efficiency does not come at the cost of quality, with the model producing "stunning" visual results, which are on par with professional-grade tools.

Key Features and Capabilities

On-Device Processing: Running exclusively on mobile devices, the model reduces reliance on external servers, lowering operating costs while improving user privacy.
High-Speed Image Generation: Users can create high-resolution images in less than 1.5 seconds, making the experience seamless and almost instantaneous.
Integration with Snapchat Features: The technology will be integrated into Snapchat's existing AI-powered tools, such as AI Snaps and AI Bitmoji Backgrounds, with the potential to expand into other creative features.
Advanced Training Techniques: Snap uses the most advanced training techniques, such as data distillation and step distillation, to ensure that it gives the best performance with minimum footprint. This helps the model learn from much larger AI systems without taking on the computational overhead required by them.

Snap's research team, together with its academic partners, has also taken cues from how the industry has continued to push the boundaries of AI efficiency. It has been leading mobile-first AI experiences owing to its years of relentless focus on model optimization. The new model leverages Snap's work on SnapFusion, an earlier text-to-image diffusion model that was able to execute image creation on mobile devices in less than two seconds-one of the fastest benchmarks within the academic community.

Democratizing AI-Powered Creativity

Snap's AI text-to-image model makes it one of the most promising steps toward democratizing access to more advanced AI technologies. Allowing the creation of high-quality images directly on mobile devices, Snap enables a community of users to unlock their creative potential without dependence on costly hardware or any cloud-based subscriptions. This adheres to Snap's bigger vision of driving innovation while keeping user experience at the fore.

It has reassured investors that the commitment to affordability and accessibility remains, and the on-device model will even further enable the company to provide high-quality AI tools at a lower operating cost. This is increasingly important as generative AI becomes more integral to social media platforms-where speed, seamlessness, and vibrancy are key to the user experience.

The investments that Snap made into this are but part of an overall larger industrial trend-a continuing development from giants such as Meta, Google, and even OpenAI themselves. This makes Snap be strategically placed to enjoy a competitive advantage over its competition and keep this technology ecosystem inhouse. On the contrary to using third-party AI tools earlier on from OpenAI and Google, this in-house model from Snap underpins self-reliant innovation, leading the future developments in social networks.

Industry Background and Future Directions

The announcement of Snap's AI text-to-image model comes amidst generative AI that is rapidly changing the technology landscape. Diffusion models for text-to-image generation, developed by companies such as OpenAI and Midjourney, have traditionally required a lot of computational power, usually forced on high-end GPUs or cloud systems. These limitations have raised concerns on cost, scalability, and privacy, especially when processing user data with third-party services.

Snap's solution hits the nail right on the head. By optimizing the model for mobile devices, the company has indeed reduced computational costs and democratized access to more advanced AI tools. This approach will go along with growing industry efforts to make AI not only more efficient but also more accessible, especially for mobile-first experiences.

The ramifications of Snap's innovation reach beyond social media. This could be a path to running text-to-image models on compact, mobile-friendly systems for broader applications in areas such as gaming, e-commerce, and AR. Snap, with its extensive history in developing AR, will be able to use this technology in further blurring the line between the physical and digital world with future AR-driven features.

Discovering the Magic of AI Tools

I remember the moment when my leisure online browsing transformed into an absorbing TikTok experience. As I scrolled through creative videos, I encountered one that caught my eye as being extremely different from the rest. An interesting thing about this video was that it was not only a visual masterpiece, but also made use of AI tools to augment it within the narrative itself. That’s when I discovered two more names in AI technology used in the filmmaking: ShortX and Runway ML.

What Are ShortX and Runway ML?

ShortX is an AI program designed to help in the easy creation of short video content. It is ideal for use in channels like TikTok’s, YouTube Shorts, and Instagram Reel’s. In ShortX you can easily create exciting content with very little hustle. On the other hand, Runway ML is an art toolbox which applies machine learning to enable designers indulge in the act of creation. The toolkit supports advanced level of video editing, creation of images or even animation.

Trying My Best

I became interested once I saw the videos and that’s when I thought these tools might help. After all one does not sit around and wait for inspiration, but rather goes in search of it. I had a random idea for a short story and it was titled “One Fine Day of a Coffee Mug”. Doesn't that sound interesting? So, I opened the window and placed the scenes in ShortX and got them moving without a pause. After that – Runway ML was used to introduce other fun special effects like steam coming out of the coffee or animation that made the whole cup "move its lips".

The Learning Curve

When I first started working on it, I felt a bit stressed. It wasn’t that easy because there were many ways to try but as much as I tried, the learning curve was rather fun. With the help of ShortX, I was able to put together numerous clips, and Runway ML added some artistic touch. And the main prize was, it was all possible even without having complex programming knowledge.

Going Viral

My video was ready after a few hours of work. Having no high expectations, I posted it on TikTok. I was rather amazed when it began to generate a buzz. The interesting idea and the soft animation touched the minds of many people. In a week’s time, the video has accumulated numerous views and likes, which has turned it into a viral phenomenon.

Forget about waiting for the latest tech - Apple just blew everything out of the water! Introducing Apple Intelligence, the super-smart AI that lives right on your iPhone, iPad, and Mac. This isn't just a Siri update - it's a whole new game. Apple Intelligence uses some seriously cool tech to learn your stuff and give you exactly what you need, wherever, whenever you need it.

The Power of Apple Intelligence

1. Understanding and Creating Language

Apple Intelligence unlocks new ways for users to enhance their writing and communication. With systemwide Writing Tools, you can rewrite, proofread, and summarize text across various apps. Whether you're tidying up class notes, crafting the perfect email, or adding humor to a party invitation, Apple Intelligence has your back.

- Rewrite: Choose from different versions of your text, adjusting the tone to suit your audience. From cover letters to casual messages, it's like having a writing coach in your pocket.

- Proofread: Check grammar, word choice, and sentence structure. Get suggestions with clear explanations to improve your writing effortlessly.

- Summarize: Condense lengthy passages into digestible paragraphs, key points, or lists. Perfect for busy days when time is of the essence.

2. Privacy First

Privacy is at the heart of Apple Intelligence. With Private Cloud Compute, your data stays secure. It flexes between on-device processing and server-based models, ensuring your personal information remains confidential.

A Personal Story

Let me share a personal experience. Last week, I was drafting an important email to a potential client. Apple Intelligence flagged a sentence that sounded too formal. With a tap, I chose a more conversational tone, and the email felt just right. The client loved it, and I landed the deal. Thanks, Apple!

In the recent update to the Stable Channel, Microsoft Corp has announced an expansion of its support for Bing Chat and Bing Chat Enterprise, catering to users of the Chrome desktop across Mac, Windows, and Linux platforms. Users using the Chrome desktop browser can now access these features seamlessly. However, specific timelines for these additions have not yet been disclosed.

Diversifying its ecosystem, Microsoft has cultivated the popularity of the Microsoft Launcher—an application launcher tailored for Android enthusiasts seeking a Microsoft-infused experience on their smartphones. Leveraging the prowess of OpenAI's GPT-4 technology, Bing Chat stands as a testament to the evolution of AI-driven communication. Not as popular as ChatGPT, Bing is making significant progress in the field.

TikTok and Candle Media have teamed up to create exciting and engaging content for their audiences. Learn more about this exciting partnership here!

TikTok, the popular social media platform, has announced a new partnership with Candle Media to co-create content for their users. This collaboration is expected to bring fresh and exciting content to both platforms, and could potentially lead to new opportunities for creators and brands. Read on to learn more about this exciting partnership.

What is TikTok?

TikTok is a social media platform that allows users to create and share short-form videos. It has become increasingly popular among younger generations, with over 1 billion active users worldwide. The app features a variety of content, including dance challenges, lip-syncing, comedy skits, and more. With its easy-to-use editing tools and viral trends, TikTok has become a major player in the social media landscape.

What is Candle Media?

Candle Media is a digital media company that specializes in creating and distributing content across various platforms. They work with brands and influencers to create engaging content that resonates with their target audience. Candle Media has a strong presence on social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube, and their partnership with TikTok will allow them to expand their reach even further. Together, TikTok and Candle Media are poised to create some of the most exciting and engaging content on the internet.

How will the partnership benefit both companies?

The partnership between TikTok and Candle Media is a win-win situation for both companies. TikTok will benefit from Candle Media's expertise in creating engaging content, which will help them attract and retain more users. Candle Media, on the other hand, will benefit from TikTok's massive user base and the opportunity to expand their reach even further. By working together, both companies will be able to create exciting and engaging content that resonates with their target audience and keeps them coming back for more.

What type of content can we expect to see from the partnership?

The partnership between TikTok and Candle Media is sure to bring some exciting and engaging content to their audiences. While specific details about the content have not been released yet, we can expect to see a variety of content that appeals to TikTok's younger demographic. Candle Media's expertise in creating engaging content, combined with TikTok's massive user base, means that we can expect to see some truly innovative and creative content that pushes the boundaries of what we expect from social media platforms. Whether it's viral challenges, funny skits, or informative videos, this partnership is sure to bring some exciting new content to TikTok.

TikTok, the popular social media platform, has introduced a new AI ad script generator that aims to simplify the process of creating effective ads. This innovative tool is designed to help marketers create engaging and compelling ads that resonate with their target audience. Learn more about this exciting new development in the world of digital marketing.

What is TikTok's new AI ad script generator?

TikTok's new AI ad script generator is a tool that uses artificial intelligence to help marketers create effective ads. The tool analyzes data from previous successful ads and uses that information to generate scripts that are tailored to the target audience. This makes it easier for marketers to create engaging and compelling ads that resonate with their audience, without having to spend hours brainstorming and writing scripts from scratch. The AI ad script generator is just one of the many innovative tools that TikTok has introduced to help marketers succeed on their platform.

How does it work?

The AI ad script generator works by analyzing data from successful ads on TikTok. It looks at factors such as the length of the ad, the type of content, and the target audience. Based on this information, the tool generates a script that is tailored to the specific audience that the marketer is targeting. The marketer can then use this script as a starting point for their ad, making any necessary tweaks or adjustments to ensure that it is as effective as possible. Overall, the AI ad script generator is a powerful tool that can help marketers save time and create more engaging ads on TikTok.

What are the benefits for marketers?

The AI ad script generator offers several benefits for marketers. Firstly, it saves time by providing a starting point for ad creation. Secondly, it ensures that ads are tailored to the specific audience that the marketer is targeting, increasing the likelihood of engagement and conversion. Finally, by analyzing successful ads on TikTok, the tool provides valuable insights into what works on the platform, helping marketers to refine their overall advertising strategy. Overall, the AI ad script generator is a valuable addition to TikTok's suite of marketing tools.

Can the tool be customized for specific brands or industries?

Yes, the AI ad script generator can be customized for specific brands or industries. When creating an ad, marketers can input information about their brand, target audience, and desired messaging. The tool then generates a script that is tailored to those specifications. Additionally, the tool analyzes successful ads within the same industry or niche, providing insights into what has worked for similar brands. This customization ensures that the ads created using the tool are highly relevant and effective for the intended audience.

Want to know how much money you can make on TikTok? Use the TikTok Payment Calculator to estimate your earnings and plan your content strategy accordingly.

If you're a TikTok creator, you may be wondering how much money you can make from your content. The TikTok Payment Calculator can help you estimate your earnings based on your number of followers, engagement rate, and other factors. With this information, you can plan your content strategy and set realistic goals for your TikTok career.

What is the TikTok Payment Calculator?

The TikTok Payment Calculator is a tool that allows TikTok creators to estimate their potential earnings based on their number of followers, engagement rate, and other factors. It takes into account the different ways that creators can earn money on TikTok, such as through brand partnerships, sponsored content, and in-app purchases. By using the calculator, creators can get a better understanding of their earning potential and make informed decisions about their content strategy.

How to use the TikTok Payment Calculator.

To use the TikTok Payment Calculator, simply enter your TikTok username and select your country. Then, input your number of followers, engagement rate, and estimated views per video. The calculator will then provide an estimate of your potential earnings per post, per month, and per year. Keep in mind that these are just estimates and actual earnings may vary based on factors such as the type of content you create and the brands you work with. Use the calculator as a guide to help you plan your content strategy and set realistic earning goals.

Factors that affect your earnings on TikTok.

While the TikTok Payment Calculator can provide an estimate of your potential earnings, it’s important to understand the factors that can affect your actual earnings on the platform. These factors include the type of content you create, the brands you work with, your engagement rate, and the number of followers you have. Additionally, TikTok’s algorithm can impact the visibility of your content, which can in turn affect your earnings. By understanding these factors, you can work to optimize your content and partnerships to maximize your earning potential on TikTok.

Tips for maximizing your earnings on TikTok.

To maximize your earnings on TikTok, it’s important to focus on creating high-quality, engaging content that resonates with your audience. This can help increase your engagement rate and attract more followers, which can in turn lead to more brand partnerships and higher earnings. Additionally, it’s important to be strategic about the brands you work with and negotiate fair compensation for your content. Finally, staying up-to-date on TikTok’s algorithm changes and trends can help you stay ahead of the curve and continue to grow your earnings on the platform.

Are you an avid Tiktok user? Then you might have noticed the newest trend that is rocking the Tiktok world. This video platform has recently launched its new effect or multi-media green screen which is a very useful tool for video creators that they can use as background to their videos.

It has become popular since its launch which is why the #aigreenscreen hashtag has garnered around 7 million views.

You may have wondered why they are gaining popularity these days and how can you use this feature to enhance your videos. This article will briefly give you a hint on what's this AI green screen going rounds in Tiktok, how it is different from other text-to-image generators, and how to use it.

AI Text to Image Generator

Tiktok AI text to image generator is an in-app filter AI system where the users can simply type a word to prompt the software to generate an image. The image generated can be used as a video background which adds a fun element to Tiktok's video creation. Though the feature is very basic yet, rendering only abstract and strange images, it is great enough to be used as an accurate filter.

What adds excitement to this new feature is its capability to generate unique artwork from your name. Just type your name in the text field and it will create a personalized green screen that can be utilized as a background to your video.

Similar to Tiktok AI Text to Image

This AI image generator is very similar to its predecessors like Meta's Make-A-scene, Google's Imagen, and OpenAI's DALL-E, only that it is an in-app application. This means users can use this feature even while on the go because it uses an AI greenscreen that can be accessed using the short-form video app's camera screen.

However, the result of this Tiktok's AI system is very basic compared to its competitors which are considered state-of-the-art text-to-image models. As mentioned above, it can only generate abstract and swirling images compared to the photorealistic image and complex illustrations produced by other text-to-image generators. Some limitations include requests for nudity and violent-themed images which results in abstract swirls images.

These limitations were meant for a purpose. The first reason includes matters of expense on the part of the company. The more advanced the model, the greater computing power it requires thus incurring more expense and intensive resources to be implemented by the company. Also, the billions of users of Tiktok that will be granted access to produce photorealistic images will soon result in some issues or troubles.

How to Use Tiktok Filter

How to use this filter is quite easy, it is just the same as how you do it with other effects in the app. Here's the step-by-step process:

1. Simply open the app and tap the plus icon to start creating your video.

2. Next, tap the effects located at the left of the camera button at the bottom of the screen.

3. Tap the search icon and input "AI greenscreen" in the search bar.

4. In the lists of results, look for the purple icon with the letters AI inside the box

5. Put your name in the text box under "enter a few words" then tap the create button under it.

6. The app will load customized and unique images for you.

7. Tap "create another" to continue exploring the feature