Artificial intelligence company xAI is currently testing a standalone iOS app for its chatbot, Grok, according to TechCrunch. The app, still in beta, is available in Australia and several other countries. It offers real-time data from the Internet and X (formerly Twitter), and provides various generative AI features such as text rewriting, long paragraph summarization, and image creation. In addition, xAI is working on a dedicated Grok.com website to make the chatbot accessible online. This expansion aims to bring the Grok experience to more users, and we’ll keep you updated as more integrations become available.
Grok’s Availability and Features
Until recently, Grok was available exclusively to X subscribers. However, in November, xAI began testing a free version of the chatbot, which was subsequently launched for all users earlier this month. Grok differentiates itself from its competitors, like ChatGPT and Claude, by positioning itself as a “rebel” chatbot. It is marketed as having fewer restrictions compared to other AI bots, allowing it to create images using celebrity photos and copyrighted materials, which is not typically permitted by other AI platforms. This freedom sets Grok apart, offering unique capabilities to its users.
Price Increases for X’s Premium+ Subscription
In a parallel move, X (formerly Twitter) is raising the prices for its Premium+ subscription service by 37.5%, making it the largest price increase since Elon Musk acquired the platform in 2022. Starting December 21, the subscription price for US users will rise from $16 to $22 per month, with the annual subscription also increasing from $168 to $229. Similar price hikes are being seen in international markets, including the European Union, where the price will increase from €16 to €21 per month. In Canada, Premium+ rates will rise from $20 to $29 per month.
X stated that the price adjustments were necessary to support the user experience and the services offered. These changes primarily affect US users, though international markets are seeing similar price increases, notes NIX Solutions. This move is part of X’s broader strategy to enhance the platform’s offerings while maintaining sustainability in a competitive landscape.