Plus, LinkedIn lays off 700 in Microsoft AI pivot
Nvidia and Foxconn Collaborate to Build AI Factories for Various Applications
Nvidia and Foxconn, two industry giants, have announced their partnership to create “AI factories,” which are data centers powered by Nvidia chips. These factories will cater to a wide range of applications such as training autonomous vehicles, robotics platforms, and large language models. With the recent export restrictions imposed on Nvidia’s high-end AI chips for the Chinese market, this collaboration aims to leverage Foxconn’s expertise and scale to build these AI factories globally. Foxconn also strives to transition from a manufacturing service company to a platform solution company, focusing on smart cities, smart manufacturing, and electric vehicles.
YouTube Developing AI Music Tool for Creators, Faces Delays in Licensing Deals with Record Labels
YouTube is working on an AI tool that will allow content creators to use the voices of popular recording artists in their videos. However, negotiations with major record labels, including Universal Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment, and Warner Music Group, for licensing deals are taking longer than expected, causing delays in the beta release of the tool. Label executives are cautious about giving up their leverage in the negotiations, but they also recognize the importance of embracing AI technology to stay ahead in the music industry. Despite the complexities of the deals, both YouTube and music rights holders are working in good faith to reach an agreement.
DeepMind Harnesses AI to Tackle the Climate Crisis: An Interview with Sims Witherspoon
DeepMind, Google’s AI lab, is using AI to address climate change by focusing on three key areas: understanding climate change through better prediction models, optimizing existing systems and infrastructure, and accelerating breakthrough science. Despite the carbon footprint of AI being a concern, Witherspoon emphasizes the importance of deploying carbon-efficient solutions. However, access to data and collaboration with domain experts are crucial roadblocks that need to be addressed to effectively combat climate change with AI.
AI Models that Prioritize Similarity Lead to Flawed Designs, MIT Engineers Find
MIT engineers have conducted a study that highlights the limitations of deep generative models that prioritize statistical similarity. These AI models are highly skilled at mimicking existing designs but falter when it comes to producing truly innovative engineering designs. By focusing on statistical similarity alone, these models fail to consider specific design requirements. The research suggests that AI models need to be trained with design objectives and constraints to produce better and more inventive designs.
Black Mirror Creator Charlie Brooker Not Afraid of AI Taking Over—Yet
In a recent speech at SXSW Sydney, Charlie Brooker, the creator of the dystopian sci-fi horror series Black Mirror, shared his thoughts on AI and its creative potential. Although generative AI is gradually replacing jobs, Brooker remains unfazed about its impact on his own career. While he experimented with an AI model called ChatGPT to develop a horror scenario, he found that AI isn’t adept at generating original, engaging content. Brooker believes that messy, human creativity is irreplaceable, despite tech companies’ growing interest and investment in AI. However, with AI technology rapidly evolving, the future of creative AI remains uncertain.
Superfy AI App Uses Chat to Connect Users in Real Time for Answers and Advice
Superfy, a mobile app developed in Tel Aviv, aims to provide users with a social experience by connecting them with other people in real-time for answers to questions and advice. Unlike traditional AI chatbots, Superfy uses its proprietary AI technology, Matchpoint AI, to match users based on various factors such as relevance, expertise, and personal connections. The app allows users to engage in meaningful conversations and receive subjective answers from real people. While primarily targeting young Gen Z users, Superfy plans to expand its user base in the future.
AI-powered Laser Network Could Tackle Space Debris Problem
A new research project funded by NASA aims to develop a network of artificial intelligence-powered lasers mounted on satellites to address the growing problem of space debris. By monitoring space debris objects and nudging those at risk of collision into safer orbits, the lasers could protect valuable assets like the International Space Station and satellites. The project aims to create a system capable of making real-time decisions and using multiple lasers to efficiently alter trajectory. This coordinated network of lasers in space could be particularly effective in tackling space objects of any size. The use of AI-powered systems also offers cost benefits and potential applications such as tracking space objects ahead of launches.
LinkedIn Announces Layoffs as Microsoft Emphasizes AI Development
LinkedIn, the professional social media platform owned by Microsoft, is undergoing a second round of layoffs this year, with 668 positions being cut. The move is attributed to Microsoft’s focus on AI development, which has seen significant investments in AI startup OpenAI and the restructuring of key products like Bing. Despite LinkedIn’s financial success, the company’s parent company’s shift towards AI has resulted in workforce reductions across various tech companies.