📣 In the news

👉 Simulating Super Mario Bros. with Video Input

Researchers have created the MarioVGG model, which generates video sequences of Super Mario Bros. using image diffusion techniques. While promising, it currently suffers from glitches and slow performance, taking six seconds to produce just six frames, making it impractical for real-time gameplay. The model is trained on 737,000 frames from 280 levels and focuses on two inputs: "run right" and "run right and jump." It generates short sequences from static images and text inputs, but the outputs are downscaled and rough in appearance. Although the model infers game physics and interactions without hard-coded rules, it still displays visual glitches. Future enhancements aim for improvements through longer training and more diverse data to develop a reliable game generator.

👉 Google Launches Virtual Try-On Tool for Dresses

Google has launched a virtual try-on tool for dresses, enhancing online shopping by allowing users to visualize how garments will look on them. Building on last year's success with tops, this feature lets shoppers select from diverse models (sizes XXS-XXXL) and see high-quality images with intricate details. Using generative AI based on diffusion, the tool addresses challenges in preserving garment details and the model's features through a new technique called VTO-UNet Diffusion Transformer (VTO-UDiT). As part of this launch, shoppers can also try on select dresses from New York Fashion Week, making the shopping experience easier and more enjoyable.

👉 Roblox Unveils Generative AI for 3D Environment Creation

Roblox is launching a generative AI tool that enables creators to build 3D scenes using simple text prompts. This new feature will allow developers to quickly generate environments, such as “Generate a race track in the desert,” and modify them easily, making the design process more accessible for those without design skills. The AI, which tokenizes 3D blocks similar to how language models operate, addresses challenges in creating diverse and coherent environments. To ensure quality, a secondary AI model trained on 2D data will verify the 3D outputs for logical consistency.

This initiative is part of Roblox's broader push to integrate AI across its platform, which currently employs 250 AI models. The company also plans to open-source its 3D foundational model, fostering innovation among developers.

Additionally, Roblox announced changes to revenue sharing for creators and introduced new social features, enhancing the overall experience on the platform.

👉 Volkswagen Introduces ChatGPT to Vehicles

Volkswagen is integrating ChatGPT into its voice assistant, enhancing the driving experience with AI-powered conversational capabilities. Starting September 6, 2024, this feature will debut in select 2025 Jetta, Jetta GLI, and ID.4 models, expanding to more vehicles by year-end. Powered by Cerence Chat Pro, the IDA voice assistant allows for natural conversations and hands-free control over navigation, infotainment, and climate settings. Users can activate the assistant with phrases like “Hello IDA” or by pressing a steering wheel button.

👀 Creative picks

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’s Bob Embraces the Influencer Life with Google’s New AI Tools

In a playful twist for Google's latest campaign, Bob, the shrunken-headed character from the iconic film, becomes an "afterlife influencer." As the sequel premieres, the ad showcases how Bob uses Google’s AI tools like Gemini, Lens, and Circle to Search in his daily life.

The spot opens with Bob relaxing at home, humorously proclaiming, “With Google, I’m loving my new life!” He consults Google Gemini for skincare tips and uses Google Lens for outfit shopping, culminating in a fun group selfie with fellow Shrinkers.

This campaign, part of the ongoing ‘New Ways to Search’ series by 72andSunny, highlights the convenience of Google’s features while celebrating the quirky charm of the Beetlejuice universe. The ads will run across digital and social platforms through mid-October, further capitalizing on the Beetlejuice-themed marketing buzz.

_{Credits: Google / 72andSunny}

Camphor Sculptures Campaign by IKI

The campaign titled "Camphor Sculptures," launched in August 2024, explores the spiritual significance of camphor in Hinduism, where lighting camphor is a way to honor the gods. The scent is closely associated with temples and puja rooms, creating a divine atmosphere.

IKI Fresh introduces an innovative Camphor spray, allowing users to recreate this sacred ambiance at home. To emphasize the product's divine fragrance, the campaign features AI-generated sculptures of Hindu gods made from camphor.

_{Credits: Blue Noodles}

📰 Get the mahazine volume #2

Call for contributors: Volume #3 of the mahazine!

We're excited to announce that for our upcoming volume, we’re seeking creative professionals who are innovating with AI or exploring its integration into their creative processes. If you’re passionate about AI in your work, we want to hear from you!

Join us in sharing your insights and experiences. Please fill → this form if you want to participate and get featured!

🐲 Gift

--sref 1009014547

We don’t have a tutorial this week, but we’ve come across an interesting Style reference code for Midjourney: --sref 1009014547. This code is great for producing images featuring blue and orange tones, adding a creative touch that highlights details and makes your output truly stand out.

See you next week for a new tutorial 👋

🦄 Weekly visuals

💎 Post of the week