Google's AI Olympics ad sparks backlash over 'dystopian' vision

Google’s new ad promoting its artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities at the 2024 Olympics has sparked a backlash, with critics calling it “dystopian” and “terrifying.” The ad depicts AI systems analyzing athletes’ performances, predicting outcomes, and even generating synthetic “shadow” athletes to compete against. While Google claims the ad showcases the potential of AI to enhance the Olympic experience, many viewers expressed concerns about the dehumanizing and invasive aspects of such technology. Privacy advocates warned about the risks of mass surveillance and data exploitation, while others questioned the ethics of creating virtual athletes. The backlash highlights the growing unease surrounding the rapid advancement of AI and the need for responsible development and governance of these powerful technologies.

2024-07-29

Insider Q&A: LinkedIn bullish on AI for job seekers

The article discusses how LinkedIn, the professional networking platform, is leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance its services for job seekers. According to Tey Scott, LinkedIn’s vice president of product, the company is using AI to better understand job descriptions and match candidates with relevant opportunities. AI algorithms analyze job postings to identify key skills and responsibilities, and then match those with the skills and experiences listed on users’ profiles. This helps surface more relevant job recommendations for users. Additionally, LinkedIn is using AI to provide personalized writing suggestions for resumes and cover letters, helping users craft more compelling applications. The platform’s AI-powered ‘Insights’ feature also offers data-driven tips on how to improve one’s profile and increase visibility to recruiters. Scott emphasizes that AI is a tool to augment human capabilities, not replace them, and that LinkedIn remains focused on protecting user privacy and data security as it continues to integrate AI into its products.

2024-07-29

Technology Stocks Sell-Off Presents a 'Buy the Dip' Opportunity, Says UBS

The recent sell-off in technology stocks presents a buying opportunity, according to UBS. The firm believes the sell-off is overdone and that the long-term outlook for the sector remains positive. UBS cites several factors driving the sell-off, including concerns over AI regulation, rising interest rates, and economic uncertainty. However, the firm argues that many tech companies have strong fundamentals and are well-positioned for future growth. UBS recommends selectively buying high-quality tech stocks that have been oversold, particularly in areas like cloud computing, cybersecurity, and AI. The firm also notes that the sell-off has created attractive valuations for long-term investors. Overall, UBS sees the current market environment as a potential “buy the dip” opportunity for investors with a long-term horizon.

2024-07-29

Tesla Stock Price Prediction: Top Pick in ZEV Credit Market Until 2024, Says Analyst

According to the article, Tesla (TSLA) is expected to remain a top pick in the Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) credit market until 2024, according to Wedbush analyst Dan Ives. The analyst believes that Tesla’s dominance in the ZEV credit market, which allows automakers to buy credits from companies like Tesla to comply with emissions regulations, will continue to be a “major positive” for the company. Ives estimates that Tesla could generate around $3.5 billion in ZEV credit sales in 2023 and potentially $4 billion in 2024. The analyst maintains an “Outperform” rating on Tesla stock with a price target of $215, implying an upside potential of around 25% from the current levels. However, Ives acknowledges that Tesla faces challenges, including production issues and competition from other automakers in the electric vehicle market.

2024-07-29

Duolingo: The Meanest App and AI Investors' Earnings

The article discusses Duolingo, a language-learning app known for its sassy and sarcastic tone, which is powered by artificial intelligence (AI). It highlights how Duolingo’s AI-driven approach has made it one of the most popular language-learning apps, with over 500 million downloads and 40 million active users. The app’s AI algorithms personalize the learning experience, adapting to each user’s strengths and weaknesses. The article also touches on the earnings of AI investors, mentioning that companies like Microsoft, Amazon, and Google have seen strong earnings due to their investments in AI technologies. Overall, the article explores how AI is transforming industries like education and technology, and how companies are capitalizing on this trend.

2024-07-28

Elon Musk Reposted a Deepfake of Kamala Harris, Potentially Violating X's Policy

The article discusses Elon Musk’s reposting of a deepfake video of Vice President Kamala Harris on X (formerly Twitter). The deepfake, created using artificial intelligence, depicts Harris making remarks she did not actually say. Musk’s action raises concerns about the spread of misinformation and the potential violation of X’s policies prohibiting synthetic or manipulated media that could cause harm. The article highlights the challenges social media platforms face in combating deepfakes and the need for clear guidelines and enforcement mechanisms. It also explores the broader implications of deepfakes on public discourse and the erosion of trust in information sources.

2024-07-28

Manipulated Video of Elon Musk Mimicking Kamala Harris' Voice Raises Concerns

A manipulated video of Elon Musk appearing to mimic Kamala Harris’ voice and questioning her leadership abilities has raised concerns about the potential impact of deepfake technology. The video, shared by Musk on Twitter, shows his face digitally superimposed on a clip of Harris, with his voice dubbed over hers. While Musk claimed it was not a deepfake, experts argue that the video qualifies as one due to the synthetic voice and face manipulation. The incident highlights the growing challenges posed by deepfakes, which can be used to spread misinformation and undermine public trust. As deepfake technology becomes more advanced and accessible, there are calls for increased efforts to detect and counter such manipulated media. The video has sparked debates around the ethics of deepfakes and the need for regulations to address their potential misuse.

2024-07-28

Manipulated Video Shared by Musk Mimics Harris' Voice, Raising Concerns

The article discusses a manipulated video shared by Elon Musk that appears to show Vice President Kamala Harris speaking in an artificial voice generated by AI. The video, which Musk claimed was “not real,” has raised concerns about the potential for AI-generated misinformation and disinformation. Experts warn that such manipulated media could be used to spread false narratives or undermine public trust. The article highlights the challenges in detecting and combating AI-generated misinformation, as well as the need for increased public awareness and media literacy. It also explores the ethical implications of AI technology and the importance of responsible development and use of these powerful tools.

2024-07-28

Musk's 'AI advert' was a parody, but AI misinformation still a risk

An artificial intelligence-generated video that appeared to show former Vice President Mike Pence making an offensive statement was a parody created by Elon Musk’s company to highlight the potential dangers of AI misinformation. The video, which Musk shared on Twitter, was made using publicly available AI models and appeared to show Pence uttering profanities and insulting remarks. However, it was quickly revealed to be a parody ad for Musk’s AI company, xAI. While the video was intended as a joke, experts warn that AI-generated misinformation poses a serious risk, as the technology becomes more advanced and accessible. Deepfakes and other manipulated media could be used to spread false narratives or sow discord. The incident underscores the need for increased public awareness and safeguards against AI-enabled misinformation.

2024-07-28

Sam Altman's Basic Income Study Shows Promising Results for Starting Businesses

The article discusses the preliminary findings of a basic income study conducted by Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI. The study provided $1,000 per month to 600 participants in two U.S. states for two years. Early results indicate that the basic income payments enabled more people to start their own businesses. Specifically, 25% of recipients started their own business, compared to just 5% in the control group. Altman believes this suggests that a basic income could foster more entrepreneurship by providing a financial cushion for people to take risks. The study also found that basic income recipients reported better mental health and reduced financial stress. However, the article notes that the study’s sample size is relatively small, and more research is needed to draw broader conclusions. Altman plans to release the full study results in 2024.

2024-07-28