Themes for Outlook and other AI-powered wonders in the news this week:

Open AI introduces search

This week, Google Search received serious competition from ChatGPT, which can now search the web better, providing users with quick and timely answers with links to relevant web sources. “This combines the benefits of a natural language interface with the value of up-to-date sports scores, news, stock quotes and more,” OpenAI said in a blog post. The search feature ostensibly differs from traditional search engines by inviting users to ask questions in a more natural and conversational way, and to probe further with follow-up questions. ChatGPT will take into account the full context of your chat to get a better response. The search feature is currently available for premium users on desktop and mobile app.

Saint-Pierre receives the AI ​​treatment

St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican now has a digital twin, announced earlier this week. The AI-based project, a reconstruction of the evolution of the basilica from Roman times to the present day, will be available from December 1 on the website basilicasanpietro.va. AI made it possible to exploit the “enormous amount of data” contained in 400,000 photos taken by drones to reconstruct this “giant quilt”, which recreates the smallest details of the architecture, paintings and sculptures of the basilica. The site will also offer a virtual tour of the basilica, which will celebrate its 400th anniversary in 2026, while in-person visitors will find technology exhibition rooms allowing for total immersion.

Stay on theme

Microsoft Outlook now offers unique, dynamic AI-powered themes that can be customized to reflect individual tastes and interests. Copilot Themes in Outlook “harnesses the power of generative AI to help users create unique themes that reflect their personal preferences and style within their Outlook experience,” Microsoft said in a blog post.