AI Spotlight: Key highlights from early July 2025

1. Google Veo 3 officially launches in Vietnam

On July 3, 2025, Google officially expanded access to its AI video generation model – Google Veo 3 – to 159 countries, including Vietnam. This marks the first time Vietnamese users can access the technology officially, without relying on a VPN or subscribing to the previously expensive Google AI Ultra package.

Developed by Google DeepMind, Google Veo 3 is a text-to-video model that generates videos up to 8 seconds long with synchronized motion and sound. Users can now subscribe to the Google AI Pro package (starting at 489,000 VND/month) to experience Veo 3 and access Google's most powerful AI models, including Gemini Pro 2.5.

Shortly after, Google also added a new feature to Veo 3: image-to-video generation. By simply uploading a photo and a short description, users can create dynamic 8-second videos with matching background audio. Simultaneously, Google launched the Google AI Ultra package in Vietnam, offering advanced features and access to Google’s most powerful models.

2. Comet – The first AI-powered web browser officially unveiled

On July 9, Perplexity officially introduced Comet – the first AI-integrated web browser, allowing users to search, summarize, compare products, book rooms, send emails, and more, all within a single web interface. This strategic move aims to directly challenge major players like Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge in the AI browser race.

Unlike traditional browsers, Comet is not just a search tool, it integrates an AI assistant capable of responding to questions about what’s on the screen, similar to Gemini on Google Chrome. Users can conduct searches, summarize content, compare items, make bookings, send emails, and schedule appointments all without switching apps.

Currently, Comet is available in beta for Perplexity Max subscribers ($200/month), targeting premium users and businesses.

3. OpenAI’s ambition to “overthrow” Google Chrome

According to a recent Reuters report, right after Perplexity launched Comet, OpenAI is reportedly preparing to release its own AI-powered web browser in the coming weeks, featuring a ChatGPT-style conversational interface.

Instead of using traditional browsing methods like searching, clicking, and filling out forms, users can simply chat directly with the AI. Notably, OpenAI’s browser might include Operator – an AI agent capable of autonomously completing tasks such as form-filling, scheduling, or booking flights.

This move reflects OpenAI’s ambition not only to compete with the likes of Google Chrome and Comet, but also to strategically gather vast user behavior data—an essential resource to further train and refine its AI models for the future.

4. YouTube updates policies on AI-generated content

YouTube is planning to update its policies to prevent creators from monetizing “inauthentic” content, including mass-produced or repetitive videos that have become easier to generate thanks to AI.

On July 15, YouTube officially updated its YouTube Partner Program monetization policy, providing clearer guidelines on what types of content are eligible or ineligible for monetization.

These policy updates are essential for enabling content creators to adapt and produce more appropriate and sustainable content on the platform in the long run.

Sources: The Verge, TechCrunch