Tag: AI

  • TikTok Unveils AI Alive: Image-to-Video Magic

    TikTok Unveils AI Alive: Image-to-Video Magic

    TikTok Launches AI Alive: New Image-to-Video Tool

    TikTok has unveiled AI Alive, a groundbreaking feature that transforms static photos into dynamic, short-form videos using AI technology. This tool is designed to enhance storytelling and creativity directly within TikTok Stories.MediumTechCrunch+2Newsroom | TikTok+2Neowin+2


    🎬 What Is AI Alive?

    AI Alive is TikTok’s first AI-driven image-to-video tool, allowing users to animate still images with motion, atmospheric effects, and sound. For instance, a serene sunset photo can be brought to life with shifting sky hues, drifting clouds, and ambient ocean sounds. Similarly, a group selfie can be animated to highlight subtle gestures and expressions, creating a lively memory. TechCrunch+1Newsroom | TikTok+1Neowin+2Newsroom | TikTok+2TechCrunch+2


    📲 How to Use AI Alive

    To create an AI Alive video:

    1. Open the TikTok app and tap the blue “+” on the top of the Inbox or Profile page to access the Story Camera.
    2. Select a photo from your Story Album.
    3. Tap the AI Alive icon on the right-side toolbar.
    4. Enter a descriptive prompt or use the default “make this photo come alive.”
    5. The AI will process the image and generate a short video, typically within a minute.
    6. You can then post the video to your Story, where it will be visible in the For You and Following feeds, as well as on your profile. Medium+4Newsroom | TikTok+4TechCrunch+4The Verge

    Note: AI Alive videos are labeled as AI-generated and include C2PA metadata to ensure transparency, even if shared off-platform. TikTok Support+5Neowin+5Newsroom | TikTok+5


    🛡️ Safety and Moderation

    TikTok emphasizes safety with AI Alive:TikTok Support+3Medium+3Newsroom | TikTok+3


    🔗 Learn More

    For more details and to see AI Alive in action, visit TikTok‘s official announcement: Newsroom | TikTok


    What is TikTok AI Alive?

    TikTok AI Alive harnesses the power of artificial intelligence to animate images, adding movement and dynamism. This allows users to create captivating video content from simple photographs. The tool is designed to be user-friendly, ensuring that anyone can easily convert images into short, attention-grabbing videos. This launch underscores TikTok’s commitment to innovation and providing creators with cutting-edge tools. You can find more details on TikTok‘s official news channels.

    Key Features and Benefits

    • Easy Image Animation: Quickly animate static images with AI.
    • User-Friendly Interface: Simple design for all users.
    • Enhanced Content Creation: Create engaging videos from photos.
    • Increased Engagement: Attract more viewers with dynamic content.

    How to Use TikTok AI Alive

    Using TikTok AI Alive is straightforward:

    1. Open the TikTok app.
    2. Select the AI Alive tool from the creation options.
    3. Upload your desired image.
    4. Let the AI animate your image.
    5. Customize and add effects as needed.
    6. Share your new video on TikTok!

    The Impact on Content Creators

    TikTok‘s latest feature, AI Alive, is transforming how content creators engage with their audiences by enabling the conversion of static images into dynamic, short-form videos. This innovative tool allows users to animate photos with movement, atmospheric effects, and sound, all through simple text prompts—no advanced editing skills required. Newsroom | TikTok+3Neowin+3Medium+3TechCrunch+2Newsroom | TikTok+2The Verge+2


    🎨 Empowering Creators with AI-Driven Storytelling

    AI Alive is accessible via TikTok’s Story Camera. Creators can select a photo from their Story Album and apply AI Alive to animate the image. For instance, a serene sunset photo can be transformed into a cinematic clip with shifting sky hues, drifting clouds, and ambient ocean sounds. Medium+5TechCrunch+5The Verge+5TikTok Support+3Neowin+3Newsroom | TikTok+3TechCrunch+2Newsroom | TikTok+2Neowin+2

    This feature democratizes content creation by lowering technical barriers, allowing creators to produce engaging visuals quickly and efficiently. It opens up new creative avenues, enabling users to bring their stories to life in ways previously limited to those with advanced editing capabilities.


    🔒 Ensuring Safety and Transparency

    TikTok emphasizes safety and transparency with AI Alive. All AI-generated videos are labeled accordingly and include C2PA metadata, ensuring that viewers are aware of the content’s AI origins, even if shared outside the platform. Additionally, moderation technology reviews the uploaded photo, the AI generation prompt, and the resulting video before it’s shown to the creator. A final safety check occurs once a creator decides to post their Story. Medium+3Neowin+3TikTok Support+3TikTok Support+4TechCrunch+4Newsroom | TikTok+4Neowin+3Newsroom | TikTok+3The Verge+3


    🚀 Staying Ahead in the AI Content Creation Landscape

    With AI Alive, TikTok positions itself at the forefront of AI-driven content creation, offering tools that enhance user creativity and engagement. This feature not only simplifies the content creation process but also aligns with TikTok‘s goal of empowering creators to produce compelling narratives effortlessly.

    For a detailed overview of AI Alive and its capabilities, visit TikTok‘s official announcement: Introducing AI Alive: Bringing Your Photos to Life on TikTok Stories.Newsroom | TikTok


    AI’s Role in TikTok‘s Future

    The introduction of TikTok AI Alive highlights the growing importance of AI in social media. TikTok is leveraging AI to enhance user experience and content creation. This tool marks a step towards integrating more AI-driven features into the platform. As AI technology advances, we can expect even more innovative tools from TikTok. Follow the latest AI trends to stay updated.

  • Tencent Hires Microsoft’s WizardLM AI Team

    Tencent Hires Microsoft’s WizardLM AI Team

    Tencent Acquires Microsoft’s WizardLM Team

    Tencent has recently acquired the team behind WizardLM, a series of advanced open-source large language models (LLMs) originally developed by researchers affiliated with Microsoft. This acquisition underscores Tencent‘s strategic commitment to enhancing its AI capabilities and competing in the rapidly evolving generative AI landscape.Anakin.ai


    🧠 What Is WizardLM?

    WizardLM is a family of open-source LLMs known for their strong performance in reasoning, multilingual understanding, and agent-like tasks. The models were trained using Microsoft’s innovative Evol-Instruct framework, which automatically generates complex instruction data to fine-tune models for more sophisticated tasks. Additionally, WizardLM 2 incorporated AI Align AI (AAA), a co-teaching and self-teaching system where models learn from each other and themselves to improve alignment and accuracy. Anakin.ai


    🔍 Why Tencent Acquired the WizardLM Team

    Tencent‘s acquisition of the WizardLM team aligns with its broader strategy to strengthen its position in the AI sector. By integrating the expertise and technologies developed by the WizardLM team, Tencent aims to enhance its proprietary AI offerings, such as the Hunyuan model, and expand its capabilities in generative AI applications. This move also reflects Tencent‘s intention to compete more effectively with other tech giants in the AI space.Chat Whisperer Newsletter+1Asianfin+1


    🚀 Tencent‘s Broader AI Strategy

    Tencent has been actively investing in AI technologies to bolster its ecosystem. The company has integrated models like DeepSeek-R1-671B into platforms such as WeChat, leveraging its cloud infrastructure to deliver advanced AI services. These initiatives demonstrate Tencent‘s commitment to developing a leading AI platform in China, combining proprietary developments with strategic acquisitions to accelerate innovation. Asianfin+1Chat Whisperer Newsletter+1


    🔗 Learn More

    For more details on Tencent‘s AI initiatives and the integration of advanced models into its platforms, you can read the following articles:


    WizardLM, known for their work in the AI space, brings a unique set of skills and experiences. Their background within Microsoft’s AI ecosystem suggests a strong foundation in developing and implementing advanced AI technologies.

    Tencent‘s AI Ambitions

    Tencent‘s recruitment of the WizardLM team signals a significant step in enhancing its AI research and development efforts. The company aims to leverage the team’s expertise to further innovate in areas such as machine learning, natural language processing, and AI applications across various sectors. This move aligns with Tencent‘s broader strategy of integrating AI into its diverse portfolio of products and services.

    The Significance of the Acquisition

    The acquisition of the WizardLM team could provide Tencent with a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving AI landscape. By integrating this team, Tencent gains access to specialized knowledge and talent that can accelerate its AI initiatives.

  • Gemini Powers Android Auto: Google’s New In-Car AI

    Gemini Powers Android Auto: Google’s New In-Car AI

    Google’s Gemini Arrives in Your Car via Android Auto

    Google is set to revolutionize the in-car experience by integrating its advanced AI assistant, Gemini, into Android Auto. This move aims to provide drivers with a more intuitive, conversational, and personalized driving companion.


    🚗 Gemini Live: Your AI Co-Pilot on the Road

    The integration introduces Gemini Live, a dynamic assistant designed to enhance the driving experience:AndroidAyuda+9Regent Studies+9blog.google+9

    • Natural Conversations: Engage in fluid dialogues with Gemini, allowing for more complex and context-aware interactions compared to traditional voice assistants. blog.google+2The Droid Guy+2Regent Studies+2
    • Personalized Recommendations: Receive suggestions for routes, dining, and entertainment based on your preferences and habits. AndroidAyuda
    • Enhanced Navigation: Benefit from real-time traffic updates, alternative route suggestions, and points of interest tailored to your journey.
    • Multimedia Control: Manage music, podcasts, and calls seamlessly, ensuring minimal distractions while driving. Gizchina.com+1Androidsis+1

    🔧 Current Development Status

    While the potential of Gemini Live is promising, it’s important to note:Gizchina.com+5AndroidAyuda+5All About AI+5

    • Beta Phase: Gemini Live is currently in the testing phase, with some features still under development. Android Authority
    • Subscription Model: Access to the full suite of Gemini Live features may require a subscription to the Google One AI Premium tier. blog.google+8The Droid Guy+8AndroidAyuda+8
    • Device Compatibility: Initial rollouts are expected on select devices, with broader availability planned in subsequent updates. blog.google

    📅 Looking Ahead

    Google’s integration of Gemini into Android Auto signifies a significant step toward smarter, more responsive in-car technology. As development progresses, users can anticipate a more connected and personalized driving experience.

    For a visual demonstration of Gemini Live in action, you can watch the early demo provided by Android Authority:


    What Gemini Brings to Android Auto

    With Gemini in Android Auto, you’ll be able to accomplish a variety of tasks hands-free. This integration focuses on enhancing safety and convenience while you’re driving. Expect more natural voice commands and proactive assistance from your car’s system.

    • Enhanced Voice Control: Control music, navigation, and communication with more intuitive voice commands.
    • Smart Summaries: Get quick summaries of messages and emails, so you can stay informed without taking your eyes off the road.
    • Proactive Assistance: Receive timely reminders and suggestions based on your driving habits and schedule.

    How to Access Gemini on Android Auto

    The rollout of Gemini on Android Auto will likely occur in phases. Make sure your Android Auto app is up-to-date and keep an eye out for announcements from Google regarding availability in your region. You can also visit the Android Auto official website for updates.

    The Future of AI in Cars

    Google’s integration of Gemini into Android Auto marks a significant step towards a future where AI plays a more prominent role in the automotive industry. Other manufacturers and developers are also exploring similar integrations to enhance the driving experience. You can read more about the future of AI in automotive here.

    This move aligns with the broader trend of integrating AI into everyday devices and platforms, making technology more accessible and user-friendly. As AI models like Gemini continue to evolve, we can expect even more innovative applications in the automotive sector.

  • Gemini AI Powers Wear OS & Google TV

    Gemini AI Powers Wear OS & Google TV

    Google Integrates Gemini AI into Wear OS and Google TV

    Google is expanding its Gemini AI assistant beyond smartphones, bringing it to Wear OS smartwatches and Google TV devices. This integration aims to provide users with a more seamless and intelligent experience across various platforms.Lifewire+1The Verge+1


    🕒 Gemini on Wear OS Smartwatches

    With the upcoming Wear OS 6 update, Gemini will be integrated into smartwatches, replacing Google Assistant. Users will be able to interact with Gemini through voice commands, app launchers, or button shortcuts. This hands-free functionality is particularly useful in situations where using a phone isn’t convenient, such as during workouts or cooking. Gemini will assist with tasks like setting reminders, checking messages, and managing reservations, offering more natural and conversational interactions. The Times of India+2Lifewire+2Android Authority+2The VergeThe Verge+2TechCrunch+2Android Authority+2


    📺 Gemini on Google TV

    Gemini is also coming to Google TV, enhancing content discovery and personalization. Users will be able to ask natural language questions like “What should I watch with the family tonight?” or “Find comedies from the 90s,” and Gemini will provide tailored recommendations across multiple streaming services. This feature aims to simplify the decision-making process and reduce the time spent scrolling through options. PhoneArena


    These updates are part of Google’s broader strategy to integrate Gemini across its ecosystem, including Android Auto and the upcoming Samsung XR headset. By embedding AI more deeply into its devices, Google aims to offer users a more cohesive and intelligent experience in their daily routines. The Verge+2Tom’s Guide+2Lifewire+2Lifewire

    For more information, you can visit Google’s official announcement: Gemini smarts are coming to more Android devices


    Gemini on Wear OS

    Wear OS users can anticipate a smarter smartwatch experience. Gemini could potentially power features such as:

    • Improved voice assistance, allowing for more natural and complex queries.
    • Context-aware reminders and notifications based on user activity and location.
    • Enhanced fitness tracking with AI-powered insights and personalized recommendations.

    Gemini on Google TV

    Bringing Gemini to Google TV has the potential to transform how users interact with their entertainment. Some possibilities include:

    • AI-driven content recommendations based on viewing history and preferences.
    • Improved search functionality, allowing users to find content using natural language queries.
    • Interactive experiences, such as AI-powered games or personalized content creation tools.

    Google continues to invest heavily in AI, seeking to embed it into a widening array of products and services. This move underscores the company’s commitment to making AI accessible and useful in everyday life. As Gemini evolves, its impact on these platforms will likely grow, offering users increasingly personalized and intelligent experiences.

  • Notion Enters AI Note-Taking Arena: New Transcription Tool

    Notion Enters AI Note-Taking Arena: New Transcription Tool

    Notion Takes on AI Note-Takers with Transcription Feature

    Notion is stepping into the realm of AI-powered note-taking, directly challenging platforms like Granola with its new transcription feature. This update marks a significant move for Notion, evolving beyond its core functionalities into a more comprehensive productivity suite.

    What This Means for Users

    The integration of a transcription tool streamlines workflows for Notion users. They can now effortlessly convert spoken words into written text, which is a game-changer for meetings, interviews, and brainstorming sessions. This feature saves time and enhances productivity by automating a traditionally manual process. You can visit Notion’s official website to explore all its capabilities.

    Key Features and Benefits

    • Real-time Transcription: Captures audio and converts it into text instantly.
    • Integration with Notion Workspace: Seamlessly embeds transcriptions into notes and documents.
    • Enhanced Collaboration: Allows teams to share and edit transcriptions within Notion.
    • Improved Accessibility: Makes content more accessible to users with hearing impairments.

    How Notion’s AI Transcription Stacks Up

    Several AI note-taking apps, like Otter.ai and Fireflies.ai, are already available. However, Notion’s integrated approach could give it an edge. By combining transcription with its existing organizational tools, Notion offers a unified workspace that many users may find more convenient. It will be interesting to compare its accuracy and features with established players like Otter.ai.

    Potential Use Cases

    • Meeting Minutes: Automatically generate meeting minutes for efficient record-keeping.
    • Interview Transcriptions: Convert interview recordings into text for analysis.
    • Lecture Notes: Transcribe lectures for comprehensive study materials.
    • Brainstorming Sessions: Capture and organize ideas generated during brainstorming sessions.
  • Google I/O 2025: Your Guide to AI & Android Reveals

    Google I/O 2025: Your Guide to AI & Android Reveals

    Get Ready for Google I/O 2025: Your AI and Android Preview

    Mark your calendars! Google I/O 2025 is on the horizon, promising a deep dive into the latest advancements in AI and Android. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or a tech enthusiast, this annual event is your gateway to understanding Google’s future direction. Here’s how you can catch all the action and key announcements.

    How to Watch Google I/O 2025

    Google typically offers multiple ways to experience I/O. Here’s what to expect:

    • Livestream: The primary way to watch is through Google’s official livestream. You can usually find it on the Google Developers YouTube channel.
    • I/O Website: The official Google I/O website will host the livestream, schedule, and additional content.
    • Mobile App: Google often releases an I/O app for Android and iOS, offering personalized schedules and streaming options.

    What to Expect: AI Innovations

    AI will undoubtedly be a central theme at Google I/O 2025. Expect updates and reveals regarding:

    • New AI Models: Google continually refines its AI models. We may see new iterations of Google AI, focusing on improved performance and capabilities.
    • AI Tools for Developers: Enhancements to tools like Vertex AI, providing developers with more robust resources for building AI-powered applications.
    • AI in Everyday Apps: Integration of AI into core Google services, such as Search, Gmail, and Photos, to enhance user experience.

    Android Updates and Announcements

    Android remains a cornerstone of Google’s ecosystem. Google often uses I/O to unveil the next major Android release and related features. Look out for:

    • Android [Version Name]: The official unveiling of the next Android version, showcasing new features, UI enhancements, and security improvements.
    • Developer Tools: New APIs, libraries, and tools to help developers build better Android apps.
    • Wear OS: Updates to Wear OS, Google’s operating system for wearables, including new features and device integrations.

    Beyond AI and Android

    While AI and Android typically take center stage, Google I/O often includes announcements in other areas:

    • Google Cloud: Updates to Google’s cloud platform, including new services and infrastructure improvements for businesses.
    • Hardware: Potential glimpses of upcoming hardware devices, such as new Pixel phones or smart home devices.
    • Emerging Technologies: Showcases of experimental projects and research in areas like augmented reality and quantum computing.
  • Tesla Robotaxi Plans Under Federal Scrutiny

    Tesla Robotaxi Plans Under Federal Scrutiny

    Tesla’s Robotaxi Faces Federal Investigation

    Tesla’s ambitious robotaxi initiative has captured the attention of federal investigators. Details surrounding the specifics of the investigation remain limited, but it signals increased regulatory interest in Tesla’s autonomous driving technology.

    Details of the Investigation

    While the exact scope of the federal inquiry is not fully public, it likely centers on the safety and operational capabilities of Tesla’s robotaxi system. Regulators are keen to ensure that the technology meets stringent safety standards before widespread deployment.

    The investigation could involve a thorough review of Tesla’s autonomous driving software, sensor technology, and overall system architecture. Federal authorities may also examine data related to past incidents involving Tesla vehicles equipped with self-driving features.

    Implications for Tesla

    This federal scrutiny could have significant implications for Tesla’s robotaxi plans. A prolonged investigation or adverse findings could delay the rollout of the service and potentially impact public perception of Tesla’s autonomous driving technology.

    Furthermore, regulatory pressure could lead to stricter requirements for Tesla’s self-driving systems, potentially increasing development costs and timelines. Tesla will need to cooperate fully with the investigation and demonstrate the safety and reliability of its technology to address regulatory concerns.

  • Microsoft Build 2025: Azure & Copilot Updates

    Microsoft Build 2025: Azure & Copilot Updates

    Microsoft Build 2025: Azure & Copilot Updates

    Microsoft Build is an annual developer conference where Microsoft unveils its latest tools, technologies, and strategies. The upcoming Microsoft Build 2025 promises significant updates, particularly focusing on Azure and Copilot enhancements. Developers and tech enthusiasts eagerly anticipate these announcements, as they often shape the future of software development and cloud computing.

    Azure Innovations Expected

    Azure, Microsoft’s cloud computing platform, consistently evolves with new services and improvements. At Build 2025, expect Microsoft to showcase advancements in several key areas:

    • AI and Machine Learning: Integration of more sophisticated AI models and machine learning services within Azure. This includes improved tools for data scientists and developers to build and deploy AI-powered applications.
    • Serverless Computing: Further enhancements to Azure Functions and Azure Logic Apps, providing developers with more flexibility and scalability for serverless applications.
    • Data Management: Updates to Azure SQL Database, Azure Cosmos DB, and other data services, focusing on performance, security, and ease of use.
    • Hybrid Cloud: Innovations that facilitate seamless hybrid cloud deployments, allowing organizations to leverage both on-premises and cloud resources effectively.

    Copilot’s Expanding Role

    Microsoft Copilot, the AI-powered assistant, plays an increasingly important role in Microsoft’s ecosystem. Build 2025 will likely highlight new capabilities and integrations for Copilot across various applications and services.

    • Developer Tools: Enhanced Copilot features within Visual Studio and other development tools, aiding in code completion, debugging, and code generation.
    • Business Applications: Deeper integration of Copilot with Microsoft 365 applications, such as Teams, Outlook, and Office, to enhance productivity and collaboration.
    • AI-Driven Insights: Improved ability for Copilot to provide insightful data analysis and recommendations, empowering users to make better decisions.
    • Customization and Extensibility: Tools and APIs enabling developers to customize Copilot to fit specific industry needs and workflows.

    Other Potential Announcements

    Beyond Azure and Copilot, Microsoft Build 2025 might also feature updates related to:

    • .NET Development: New features and improvements in the .NET framework, supporting modern application development.
    • Power Platform: Enhancements to Power Apps, Power Automate, and Power BI, enabling citizen developers to build custom solutions.
    • Gaming: Updates for game developers leveraging Azure and Microsoft’s gaming technologies.
    • Windows Development: Tools and resources for building innovative Windows applications.
  • AllTrails Unveils AI-Powered Smart Routes with New Membership

    AllTrails Unveils AI-Powered Smart Routes with New Membership

    AllTrails Enhances Outdoor Adventures with AI-Powered Smart Routes

    AllTrails just launched a premium membership packed with exciting new features, most notably AI-powered smart routes. For $80 a year, subscribers unlock a smarter way to explore the outdoors. Let’s dive into what this new offering brings to the table.

    What’s New with AllTrails Membership?

    The highlight of this update is definitely the introduction of AI to suggest personalized routes. Here’s a breakdown of the key benefits:

    • AI-Powered Smart Routes: AllTrails now leverages artificial intelligence to suggest hiking, biking, and running routes tailored to your preferences and fitness level. No more endless scrolling – let AI do the heavy lifting!
    • Enhanced Offline Maps: Download detailed maps for offline use, ensuring you stay on track even without a cell signal.
    • 3D Maps: Get a better lay of the land with immersive 3D maps that provide a more realistic view of the terrain.
    • Ad-Free Experience: Enjoy uninterrupted exploration without pesky ads getting in your way.

    Diving Deeper into AI Route Planning

    The AI route planning feature uses machine learning analysis to take into account factors like trail difficulty, elevation gain, distance, and user reviews to create personalized route recommendations. This helps users discover new trails that match their skill level and interests. Learn more about how AI is shaping similar platforms and technologies in the AI in Tech section.

    How to Get Started

    Ready to experience the enhanced AllTrails? Simply visit the AllTrails website or update your mobile app to explore the new membership options. You can test out some of the free functionality and then decide if the premium features, especially the AI-driven routes, are right for you.

  • Saudi Arabia’s AI Push: Prince Launches New Venture

    Saudi Arabia’s AI Push: Prince Launches New Venture

    Saudi Prince Unveils AI Venture Amid Tech Leaders’ Arrival

    A Saudi Arabian prince recently launched a new artificial intelligence venture, coinciding with the arrival of prominent figures like Donald Trump, Elon Musk, Sam Altman, and Mark Zuckerberg for a major conference in the Kingdom. This signals a significant push by Saudi Arabia into the rapidly evolving AI landscape. The new venture aims to develop cutting-edge AI solutions and foster innovation within the region.

    Key Conference Attendees

    The presence of these influential leaders underscores the importance of the conference and the growing interest in Saudi Arabia’s technological ambitions. Each attendee brings unique expertise and perspective:

    • Donald Trump: His involvement highlights the geopolitical and economic significance of Saudi Arabia’s tech investments.
    • Elon Musk: Known for his ventures in AI and electric vehicles, Musk’s attendance suggests potential collaborations in these areas. You can learn more about Elon Musk’s AI endeavors on his company’s website, Tesla AI.
    • Sam Altman: As the CEO of OpenAI, Altman’s insights into generative AI are invaluable. Explore the latest innovations at OpenAI.
    • Mark Zuckerberg: Leading Meta, Zuckerberg’s expertise in social media and metaverse technologies can shape the future of digital interaction. Discover Meta’s AI research at Meta AI.

    Saudi Arabia’s AI Ambitions

    This new AI venture represents a strategic move by Saudi Arabia to diversify its economy and establish itself as a technological hub. The country is investing heavily in AI research, development, and deployment across various sectors, including:

    • Healthcare
    • Finance
    • Energy
    • Smart Cities

    By attracting top talent and fostering innovation, Saudi Arabia aims to create a vibrant AI ecosystem that drives economic growth and improves the quality of life for its citizens.