Breaking news

Ilya Sutskever Launches New AI Company

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

June 20, 2024

Ilya Sutskever, a co-founder of OpenAI, has launched a new company, Safe Superintelligence Inc. (SSI), just one month after formally departing from OpenAI.

Sutskever, who served as OpenAI’s chief scientist for many years, established SSI with former Y Combinator partner Daniel Gross and former OpenAI engineer Daniel Levy.

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At OpenAI, Sutskever played a crucial role in enhancing AI safety amidst the advent of “superintelligent” AI systems. He collaborated closely with Jan Leike, who co-led OpenAI’s Superalignment team. However, both Sutskever and Leike left OpenAI in May following a significant disagreement with the company’s leadership regarding AI safety strategies. Leike is now leading a team at the rival AI firm Anthropic.

Sutskever has long focused on the complex challenges of AI safety. In a 2023 blog post co-authored with Leike, he predicted that AI with intelligence surpassing human capabilities could emerge within the next decade. He emphasized that such AI might not necessarily be benevolent, highlighting the urgent need for research into methods to control and restrain it.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

Airbnb Unveils Reserve Now, Pay Later Option For U.S. Guests

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

August 15, 2025

Introduction

Airbnb has introduced an innovative payment solution designed to enhance user flexibility for U.S. travellers. The new “Reserve Now, Pay Later” feature enables users to secure a booking without an upfront payment, offering a streamlined cancellation process should plans change.

Flexible Payment Terms

This new option applies to listings that feature either flexible or moderate cancellation policies. Under a flexible policy, guests can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours before check-in, while a moderate policy offers no-fee cancellations until five days prior to arrival.

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Payment Timing and Reminders

Regardless of the cancellation window, guests are obligated to complete the full payment before the expiration of the free cancellation period. Airbnb ensures a smooth experience by sending timely payment reminders to avoid any last-minute issues.

Evolution of Airbnb’s Payment Solutions

This initiative builds on Airbnb’s previous forays into flexible payment structures. In 2018, the company offered a partial upfront payment model, and more recently, a collaboration with Klarna enabled guests to pay in four installments over six weeks. Such strategic advancements demonstrate Airbnb’s commitment to adapting and refining its payment solutions to meet evolving consumer demands.

Consumer Insight Driving Innovation

Airbnb’s decision to launch the “Reserve Now, Pay Later” feature reflects robust consumer demand, with recent surveys indicating that 55% of respondents prefer flexible payment options. Additionally, 42% noted missed opportunities due to payment complexities when coordinating with travel companions, underlining the need for simplified financial arrangements.

Conclusion

By enhancing payment flexibility, Airbnb not only broadens its appeal but also addresses critical customer pain points, reinforcing its position as a leader in the evolving travel market. This initiative exemplifies how strategic innovation can drive customer satisfaction in an increasingly competitive landscape.