Hollywood Strike Ends: Screen Actors Guild Reaches Deal with Producers

Hollywood Strike Ends: Screen Actors Guild Reaches Deal with Producers

Technology

After 118 days on strike, the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) has reached an agreement with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP). The strike, the longest in Hollywood’s history, centered around issues related to artificial intelligence (AI) in actors’ performances and residual payments for streaming content. While the exact details of the agreement have not been disclosed, the resolution suggests that the actors’ concerns regarding AI were at least partially addressed. The strike’s end brings hope for improvements in actors’ job security and compensation, paving the way for the resumption of stalled productions in the industry.

AI’s Roadblock: Transformers Aren’t Good at Generalizing

AI’s Roadblock: Transformers Aren’t Good at Generalizing

Business

Researchers from Google have revealed that transformers, a technology powering AI tools like ChatGPT, struggle with generalizing and performing tasks beyond their training data. This poses a challenge for achieving artificial general intelligence (AGI), as AI currently lacks the capacity to transfer skills across domains like humans. The study has prompted a reevaluation of the capabilities of large language models (LLMs) and the need to temper expectations of imminent AGI. Despite the limitations, some experts remain optimistic about the future role of AI models.

Elon Musk Unveils AI Language Model ‘Grok’

Elon Musk Unveils AI Language Model ‘Grok’

Business

Elon Musk has unveiled xAI’s latest AI product named Grok, a Large Language Model designed to compete with other leading models in the field. Musk showcased its capabilities, including real-time knowledge from the X platform (formerly Twitter). The unique character of Grok is modeled after the ‘Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy’ and it offers a humorous and rebellious user experience.

Google CEO Suggests Subscription Business Models for AI Products

Google CEO Suggests Subscription Business Models for AI Products

Business

Google CEO Sundar Pichai has suggested that subscription business models could be considered for the company’s new AI products. He mentioned the success of YouTube’s subscription offerings as an example. However, Google will need to tread carefully as it explores alternative revenue streams beyond its advertising model, particularly considering the potential impact on its lucrative Search ads. Pichai expressed satisfaction with user feedback on the Search Generative Experience (SGE) and plans to expand its availability. This signals Google’s openness to innovation and exploring new paths for AI products.

New Tool Empowers Artists Against AI

New Tool Empowers Artists Against AI

Technology

Artists now have a tool called Nightshade that can disrupt the functioning of AI models by making subtle changes to images used in training. Developed by computer science professor Ben Zhao, Nightshade tricks machine-learning models into misinterpreting images, causing them to malfunction. This tool may help address the power asymmetry between technology companies and artists, as it discourages companies from scraping artists’ work without consent. Nightshade could shift the AI sector towards obtaining consent and compensating artists for their contributions.

The Impact of AI on Productivity, Jobs, and Business Models

The Impact of AI on Productivity, Jobs, and Business Models

Business

Amy Webb discusses AI’s impact on productivity, the job market, and business models. She emphasizes the need for CEOs to focus on top-line growth and consider new revenue streams. Webb addresses misconceptions about AI and raises concerns about data ownership. She anticipates the rise of multimodal AI systems with diverse capabilities.

Researchers Ask AI to Design Walking Robot, Get Surprising Results

Researchers Ask AI to Design Walking Robot, Get Surprising Results

Business

Researchers from Northwestern University, MIT, and the University of Vermont asked an AI to design a walking robot. The result was a small, squishy, misshapen robot that walks by spasming when filled with air. This robot’s design looks nothing like any animal that has ever walked the earth, and researchers are uncertain why it has this peculiar shape and numerous holes. The study showcases the unexpected outcomes that can occur when combining AI and robotics, presenting new possibilities and paths that humans may not have considered.

AI as Your BFF? A New Wave of Chatbots Want to Get Personal With You

AI as Your BFF? A New Wave of Chatbots Want to Get Personal With You

Technology

Technology giants like Amazon, Google, Meta, and OpenAI are investing in AI upgrades to create chatbots that feel like friends. These new developments enable AI characters to speak, integrate seamlessly into social media, and adapt to users’ preferences based on their previous interactions. While there are differing opinions on the depth of the friendship with an AI chatbot, studies have shown that people can form genuine connections with these virtual companions. However, concerns about manipulation, security, and privacy need to be addressed as AI technology advances.