Plus, can AI recreate your deceased loved ones?
Battle of the Bots: A.I.-Generated Campaign Posters Spice Up Argentina’s Presidential Election
In a unique twist to the Argentine presidential election, the two candidates are leveraging AI to create eye-catching campaign posters and videos. The use of AI technology allows them to produce images that promote their own strengths and attack their opponents. One of the candidates, Sergio Massa, employed an AI program to generate a Soviet-inspired political propaganda poster featuring himself surrounded by a crowd of hopeful older citizens. The poster exuded authority and determination, reflecting the candidate’s desired image. This innovative use of AI-generated visuals brings a fresh and controversial dimension to the election campaign, attracting attention and igniting discussions about the ethical implications of leveraging AI for political purposes.
Behind the Scenes: The Underage Gig Workers Powering AI
A significant portion of the underage population in countries like Pakistan and Kenya are working as gig workers in the AI industry. These young workers contribute to the labeling and collection of data for AI algorithms, often performing tasks like content moderation and data annotation. Although platforms require workers to be over 18, many underage individuals bypass age checks by using false information. There is a lack of worker oversight in this industry, resulting in the exploitation of these young workers. The global AI data labeling and collection industry is projected to reach $17.1 billion by 2030, fueling the demand for more gig workers.
AI Chatbots Fall Short in Travel Planning: Book with Caution!
AI chatbots offered by popular travel sites like Booking.com, Expedia, and Tripadvisor have introduced trip-planning capabilities, but their reliability is still questionable, warns Booking.com CEO Glenn Fogel. These chatbots primarily rely on ChatGPT, which has been found to provide inaccurate information and itinerary suggestions. Fogel compares relying on AI chatbots to the early days of GPS systems, when occasionally, people were led into danger.
Digital Ghosts: AI Avatars of the Deceased Hit the Market, but Do They Do More Harm Than Good?
Companies now offer AI chatbots and digital avatars that simulate conversations with deceased loved ones, a concept known as “grief tech.” While these advancements may provide comfort for some, psychologists warn that they may interfere with the crucial process of adapting to loss. The digital alter egos becoming increasingly realistic could complicate the grieving process and prevent individuals from fully moving forward. With new insights into the neurobiology of grief, there is concern that these AI avatars may exacerbate the difficulties of grief rather than offer genuine solace. The long-term effects and impact on the relationship with the deceased are still unknown.
The AI Doomer Backlash: Are Big Tech Firms Exploiting Fear to Stifle Competition?
The rise of AI doomerism, the fear that artificial intelligence will eventually eliminate humans, has created apprehension within the tech industry. Critics have raised concerns about AI safety, leading to proposals for government oversight that could benefit big tech companies and hinder smaller AI startups and open-source developers. However, several prominent AI researchers have pushed back against the doomer narrative, arguing that it is based on unfounded fears and could ultimately stifle innovation. Big tech firms may be capitalizing on these worries to maintain their dominance in the AI market.