Category: Artificial intelligence

  • OpenAI Offers Deep Research Features for Free ChatGPT Users

    OpenAI Offers Deep Research Features for Free ChatGPT Users

    Key Takeaways

    1. ChatGPT has a new Deep Research tool that explores the web and reevaluates findings, taking 5 to 30 minutes to generate replies.
    2. The tool uses OpenAI’s o3 model for the full version and o4-mini for the lighter version, which is more cost-effective but nearly as accurate.
    3. Pro users get an additional 125 deep research queries with the lightweight version, while Plus and Team users’ quotas increase from 10 to 25 tasks.
    4. Free plan users can access the lightweight tool but are limited to just 5 queries per month.
    5. Users seeking more deep research capabilities may need to pay between $20 and $200 for enhanced usage.

    ChatGPT has introduced a new feature that explores the web multiple times, reevaluates its findings, and can take anywhere from five to thirty minutes to generate a reply. This Deep Research tool is part of OpenAI’s strategy to perform better on the Humanity’s Last Exam AI benchmark test, and it is now available in a more accessible version for all users, including those on the free plan.

    New Model Details

    The original deep research tool utilizes OpenAI’s upcoming o3 model, while the lighter version operates on the o4-mini model. According to a post on X, which used to be known as Twitter, the company claims that this version is “much cheaper to serve,” even though its accuracy is relatively close to that of the full deep research tool, which is exclusive to paid ChatGPT users.

    User Quota Changes

    For pro users, there’s now an extra 125 deep research queries available with the lightweight version after they use their initial 125. Plus and Team users will see their monthly quota rise from 10 tasks to 25. OpenAI also mentioned that the additional 15 queries for the lightweight model will be extended to Enterprise and Edu users in the next week.

    Free Plan Limitations

    Users on the free plan can also utilize the lightweight deep research tool, but they will be restricted to just five queries each month. While this may suffice for most of ChatGPT’s 400 million users, those who find deep research valuable might need to pay between $20 and $200 to enhance their usage.

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    OpenAI Offers Deep Research Features for Free ChatGPT Users
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  • Animon.ai: Generate Anime from Photos in Just 5 Seconds

    Animon.ai: Generate Anime from Photos in Just 5 Seconds

    Key Takeaways

    1. Animon.ai allows users to create 5-second anime clips from static images using generative AI, free of charge.
    2. The service targets both novice and experienced anime creators, drastically reducing the time needed for traditional animation from 72+ hours to about 3-4 minutes.
    3. Animon.ai addresses challenges in the anime industry, including low wages, long hours, and a shortage of animators, by streamlining the animation process.
    4. The platform currently does not include music, sound effects, or voiceovers, but other AI companies can integrate these elements into videos.
    5. While the AI service shows promise, it still has limitations, such as animating only foreground characters, indicating room for future improvement.

    Animon has launched its Animon.ai website, which allows users to create 5-second anime video clips from static reference images. This service is the first of its kind in Japan, providing Japanese-style anime animations through generative AI that can be utilized for an unlimited number of times at no cost.

    Rapid Progress in AI Technology

    In recent years, generative video AI has rapidly developed, with offerings from major AI firms that can generate very realistic scenes and human figures for general applications. However, these solutions are not specifically tailored for creating Japanese-style anime.

    Target Audience for Animon.ai

    Animon.ai is designed for both novice and experienced anime creators looking for an automated way to bypass the labor-intensive traditional method of hand-drawing every frame. According to a company presentation, animating just five seconds of anime can demand over 72 hours of manual effort, which breaks down to roughly 8 hours for storyboarding, 12 hours for key framing, 24 hours for in-between frames, 16 hours for coloring, and 12 hours for piecing the frames together into a video.

    With its free service, animators can simply upload a still reference image and provide a prompt detailing the desired action and movement. The AI takes about 3-4 minutes to generate the necessary frames for a five-second animation, saving users the 72+ hours of manual labor.

    Creative Freedom and Industry Challenges

    This acceleration allows animators to quickly explore different concepts and emotional expressions for a scene, enabling them to concentrate on the creative aspects of storytelling. It also addresses various issues in the Japanese anime sector, such as low wages, extended working hours, and a shortage of animators.

    Animon offers three different service tiers:

    While the main goal of Animon is to streamline the animation process, it does not include music, sound effects, or voiceovers as part of its offerings. Nevertheless, other AI companies have demonstrated that adding these elements to generated videos is quite feasible.

    Limitations and Future Potential

    In a short test to animate a frame from Steins;Gate (which can be seen here), only the foreground character was animated successfully, leaving the background characters untouched. Users should be aware that this advanced AI service still has room for improvement. However, the results might be more than adequate for fan projects like AMVs.

    For those who enjoy drawing, hand-drawn animations can be created using software like Clip Studio Paint, available for purchase here on Amazon.

    Animon.ai, Animon press release, CreateAI on YouTube.

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    Animon.ai: Generate Anime from Photos in Just 5 SecondsAnimon.ai: Generate Anime from Photos in Just 5 Seconds

     

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  • MediaTek Dimensity C-X1 to Introduce NVIDIA RTX Ray Tracing in Cars

    MediaTek Dimensity C-X1 to Introduce NVIDIA RTX Ray Tracing in Cars

    Key Takeaways

    1. MediaTek’s Dimensity Auto Cockpit Platform is its first collaboration with NVIDIA for advanced automotive silicon.
    2. The C-X1 SoC is built on a 3nm architecture and features a GPU from the Blackwell series, similar to RTX 5000-series graphics cards.
    3. The platform aims to deliver “end-to-end” AI capabilities, enhancing vehicle intelligence and entertainment, including travel vlogs and road safety monitoring.
    4. The C-X1 integrates with NVIDIA DRIVE AGX for seamless autonomous driving and includes the DriveOS user interface.
    5. The Auto Cockpit Platform launches with the Dimensity Auto Connect MT2739, the world’s first 5G-A chipset for vehicles, supporting NR-NTN and NB-NTN satellite connections.

    MediaTek has introduced its newest Dimensity Auto Cockpit Platform, marking the initial outcome of its collaboration with NVIDIA to create advanced silicon for automobiles. The C-X1 is a cutting-edge 3 nanometer (nm) SoC that utilizes the most recent Arm architecture (v9.2-A). Additionally, it features a GPU from the Blackwell series, which is also used in the newly released RTX 5000-series graphics cards for personal computers.

    AI Innovations in Vehicles

    The company claims that this platform is designed to provide “end-to-end” AI capabilities, aiming to make the next generation of cars the most intelligent vehicles ever. These cars could potentially create their own travel vlogs and keep an eye on road safety both inside and outside the vehicle. Moreover, it promises to ensure “a clear, smooth AAA gaming entertainment experience” for everyone onboard.

    Integration with Autonomous Driving

    A vehicle equipped with the C-X1 can seamlessly integrate with the new NVIDIA DRIVE AGX, which is a dedicated platform for autonomous driving, along with the DriveOS user interface.

    Launch of New Connectivity Features

    The Auto Cockpit Platform has been launched alongside the MediaTek Dimensity Auto Connect MT2739, which is the world’s first 5G-A chipset specifically designed for vehicles. This chipset also includes support for NR-NTN and NB-NTN satellite connections, enhancing connectivity options for drivers and passengers alike.

    MediaTek’s innovation looks to revolutionize the driving experience with smarter technology and improved connectivity.

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  • Google Pays Samsung to Promote Gemini in One UI Report

    Google Pays Samsung to Promote Gemini in One UI Report

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google faces multiple antitrust lawsuits over alleged unfair market practices.
    2. The company reportedly paid Samsung a significant amount to promote its AI assistant, Gemini.
    3. Payments to Samsung are expected to last a minimum of two years, covering pre-installation on devices.
    4. Samsung agreed to make Gemini the default app despite having its own AI assistant.
    5. The Galaxy S25 series features Gemini as the default assistant, with updates and new features included.

    Google is currently facing multiple antitrust lawsuits that claim the company has engaged in unfair practices to dominate the market. It has been accused of incentivizing companies to choose its products and software over competitors. Recently, reports emerged that Google paid Samsung “a huge amount of money” to promote Gemini within One UI. This arrangement involves monthly payments expected to last for a minimum of two years.

    Monthly Payments to Samsung

    In a report by Bloomberg, Peter Fitzgerald, the VP of Global Partnerships, Platforms & Ecosystems at Google, disclosed that Samsung received substantial monthly payments to guarantee that Gemini was pre-installed on their devices. This deal encompasses payments for every device featuring the AI assistant, along with a share of the revenue generated from ads within the app.

    Contract Details and Device Integration

    Moreover, this agreement is said to extend for at least two years, and Samsung accepted these payments to make Gemini the default app, even though the company has its own AI assistant. The Galaxy S25 series comes with Gemini already set as the default assistant, which can be activated by pressing the power button, similar to how it works on Google Pixel devices. This integration ensures that Samsung phones equipped with Gemini receive all the updates, including features like real-time conversations and Visual AI.

    The final hearing is reported to have occurred on Monday, April 21, and it is expected to be the last session before a decision is reached in September.

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  • Columbia Students Behind AI Cheating Tool Raise $5.3M in Funding

    Columbia Students Behind AI Cheating Tool Raise $5.3M in Funding

    Key Takeaways

    1. Chungin “Roy” Lee developed an AI tool named Cluely, which helps users cheat in various situations and has secured $5.3 million in seed funding.
    2. Cluely can provide real-time assistance by viewing screens and listening to audio, making it undetectable during activities like interviews and tests.
    3. Lee defends Cluely by comparing it to common tools like calculators and search engines, suggesting that society adapts to new technology over time.
    4. Lee and his co-founder faced a year-long suspension from Columbia University for their actions related to Cluely, and he has shared his story on social media.
    5. Cluely offers a free version and a Pro model for $20 per month, which includes enhanced features and support, with an annual plan available for $100.

    Back in March, Chungin “Roy” Lee, a former student at Columbia University, began to share the tale of how he and a friend faced suspension for developing an AI tool that assists users in cheating during coding interviews and other scenarios without getting caught. This tool, now named Cluely, has successfully secured $5.3 million in seed funding and is available for free download from its official website.

    Cluely’s Capabilities

    Lee posted on LinkedIn, claiming that his AI tool Cluely can be used for cheating in “literally everything.” It has the ability to view your screen, listen to audio, and provide real-time help in various situations while remaining undetected. The tool can be helpful in interviews, assignments, sales calls, tests, meetings, and much more. Lee defends this innovation by likening it to calculators, spell checkers, and Google search. He states, “Each time tech makes us more intelligent, the world freaks out. Then it adjusts. Then it forgets. And suddenly, it’s just normal,” as noted in the manifesto on the Cluely website.

    Undetectable Technology

    Cluely is reported to be entirely undetectable, as it remains hidden during screen sharing, and users can move the window around to keep focus on the camera.

    The creation of this startup came after Lee and his co-founder Neel Shanmugam were suspended for a year from Columbia University. Lee started posting his story on X, which has attracted significant attention, drawing mixed reactions from those who commented. His posts even include letters from the university confirming his year-long suspension. Despite this, Lee appears uninterested in returning to university life.

    Pricing Plans

    Cluely offers a free model that includes basic features, along with a Pro model priced at $20 per month. The Pro version allows unlimited usage, troubleshooting, enhanced agent models, and around-the-clock customer support. For those interested, an annual plan for the Pro model is available for $100.

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  • The Cost of Kindness: ChatGPT Pays for ‘Please’ and ‘Thank You’

    The Cost of Kindness: ChatGPT Pays for ‘Please’ and ‘Thank You’

    Key Takeaways

    1. OpenAI faces financial losses in the tens of millions due to users including polite terms in prompts to ChatGPT.
    2. Each AI-generated prompt consumes significant energy, with a 100-word email using around 0.14 kWh.
    3. The annual energy consumption for weekly AI-generated emails can equal that of a refrigerator over two weeks.
    4. AI technologies contribute about 2% of the world’s electricity consumption, surpassing some industrial sectors.
    5. Online reactions vary from sarcastic humor to serious concerns about focusing on more significant energy issues rather than digital courtesy.

    A brief post on X on April 16 led to a notable discussion: a user inquired about the financial losses OpenAI faces due to users including courteous terms like “please” and “thank you” in ChatGPT. The unexpected answer came directly from CEO Sam Altman, who stated, “Tens of millions of dollars.” Each prompt, regardless of how small, requires a considerable amount of energy.

    Energy Consumption Insights

    As reported by the Washington Post, creating a single AI-generated email of 100 words consumes around 0.14 kWh of power. Doing this weekly results in nearly 7.5 kWh annually, which is comparable to the energy used by a modern refrigerator over two weeks. When considering the millions of prompts generated daily across the globe, it becomes apparent that digital courtesy is no longer just a trivial matter. Energy experts suggest that AI technologies currently represent about 2% of the world’s electricity consumption, surpassing several industrial sectors.

    Reactions from the Online Community

    On the subreddit r/nottheonion, which is recognized for its strange yet genuine news, the revelation regarding “polite electricity consumption” triggered a flurry of sarcastic reactions. One commenter joked, “Mom always said it doesn’t cost anything to be nice – but turns out she was wrong.” Others took a more serious approach, cautioning that this emphasis might overshadow more significant energy concerns, such as industrial pollution or extravagant lifestyles. The argument: instead of discussing the expenses related to saying “please” and “thank you,” we ought to focus on issues like data centers, heated swimming pools, and the carbon emissions from affluent countries.

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  • AI Robots Cut Venhub Store Costs by 31%

    AI Robots Cut Venhub Store Costs by 31%

    Key Takeaways

    1. Venhub’s automated convenience stores reduce building and operating costs by 31% compared to traditional stores with human staff.
    2. The stores operate 24/7 using AI robotic arms for order fulfillment and have a product range of over 400 SKUs.
    3. Setting up a Venhub unit costs between $250,000 and $275,000, with monthly operational fees for the robots.
    4. The store design enhances security, minimizes theft, and ensures a clean environment, with payments made via smartphones.
    5. Future upgrades will include solar energy and support for frozen food items, while the store’s compact size requires specific lot dimensions.

    NBC4 news in Los Angeles has reported that Venhub’s convenience stores, which are fully automated, have managed to cut down building and operating expenses by 31% when compared to regular stores that employ human staff.

    A New Kind of Service

    Venhub stores operate continuously without the need for breaks or staff changes. They use two special AI robotic arms that travel along a metal track to fulfill customer orders around the clock. These robots are equipped with AI vision recognition to find products. With interchangeable suction cups and grabber hands, they can manage a diverse range of items easily.

    Product Range and Tracking

    These stores can hold over 400 different product SKUs and are fitted with six smart refrigerated cabinets. Owners have the ability to monitor inventory, operations, and sales remotely through live surveillance. Predictive AI is used to analyze inventory and demand trends for better restocking efficiency.

    Cost and Efficiency

    The price for setting up a unit is generally between $250,000 and $275,000, and it is entirely owned by the operator. The robots incur a monthly software as a service (SaaS) fee of $2,500, plus an optional servicing fee of $1,300 for maintenance (which calculates to about $5.21 per hour when operating 24/7).

    This setup alleviates the challenges of recruiting and retaining staff, especially given that the minimum wage for fast food workers is $20 and $16.50 for other workers in California. Customers enjoy reduced prices; for instance, one individual found Coke priced at $0.79, which is significantly lower than the typical price of over $2 at conventional convenience stores.

    Security and Customer Experience

    Venhub stores come with a secure layout that keeps customers outside, making it harder for thieves to break in and preventing large-scale thefts that often trouble local convenience outlets. This design also contributes to a cleaner environment, especially crucial during health crises. Payments are made through smartphones, eliminating cash theft risks. Customers collect their orders through window boxes, and all windows are reinforced to be bulletproof.

    Utility power is used for operations, while backup batteries ensure the store stays functional during power outages and natural disasters. Future upgrades will incorporate solar energy and support for frozen food items. Each building measures 22 x 10 x 10 feet (6.71 x 3.05 x 3.05 m) and needs a lot with 4 feet (1.22 m) of clearance on every side.

    For those interested in running a convenience store, they can order a Venhub directly. If readers are curious about the market, they can check out this book on automated stores and this book discussing the history of 7-Eleven.

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    AI Robots Cut Venhub Store Costs by 31%AI Robots Cut Venhub Store Costs by 31%AI Robots Cut Venhub Store Costs by 31%

     

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  • Metis Compute Board: 6x NPU AI Performance vs Intel Core Ultra 9

    Metis Compute Board: 6x NPU AI Performance vs Intel Core Ultra 9

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Metis Compute Board integrates the RK3588 SoC, suitable for Linux-based systems, with 16GB of LPDDR4x RAM and dedicated memory for the Metis AIPU.
    2. The Neural Processing Unit (NPU) can achieve up to 214 TOPS, outperforming recent Intel processors, making it ideal for AI tasks like image analysis.
    3. The board measures 6.7 x 6.7 inches, follows the Mini-ITX format, and operates on a 12-volt power supply.
    4. Connectivity options include HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort, two Gigabit Ethernet ports, two M.2 slots, USB 3.1 Gen 1, USB Type-C, and GPIO.
    5. The Metis Compute Board is available for preorder at $592, with shipping expected to start in June.

    The Metis Compute Board features a mainboard integrating the RK3588 System on Chip (SoC). This SoC is quite familiar in the Single Board Computer (SBC) market and is expected to perform effectively with Linux-based systems. It comes with 16GB of LPDDR4x RAM, while the Metis AIPU has its own dedicated memory.

    Impressive NPU Performance

    As stated by the manufacturer, the Neural Processing Unit (NPU) can reach up to 214 TOPS, which is a notable increase compared to the NPUs found in recent Intel processors like the Core Ultra 9 285K. This characteristic makes the Metis Compute Board especially advantageous for tasks that require AI capabilities, such as image analysis. For instance, it can be utilized to examine surveillance videos.

    Specifications and Connectivity

    The dimensions of the board are 6.7 x 6.7 inches, adhering to the Mini-ITX format and operates on a 12-volt power supply. It is equipped with multiple ports, including HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort, allowing connections to 4K monitors, although not at 60Hz. Additionally, it offers two Gigabit Ethernet ports and two M.2 slots, one of which may accommodate a WiFi module. Other connectivity options include USB 3.1 Gen 1, USB Type-C, and GPIO for connecting sensors and actuators. The Metis Compute Board is currently available for preorder at a price of $592, with shipping anticipated to begin this June.

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    Metis Compute Board: 6x NPU AI Performance vs Intel Core Ultra 9Metis Compute Board: 6x NPU AI Performance vs Intel Core Ultra 9
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  • AI Could Address Global Shortages of Doctors and Teachers, Bill Gates

    AI Could Address Global Shortages of Doctors and Teachers, Bill Gates

    Key Takeaways

    1. Bill Gates believes AI can help address global shortages of healthcare workers and educators.
    2. There is a significant shortage of medical professionals in countries like India and regions in Africa, with the U.S. projected to face a deficit of 86,000 doctors by 2036.
    3. AI startups are attracting investment to automate healthcare processes and improve productivity, potentially adding $370 billion in value.
    4. The education sector is struggling to fill teaching positions, with 86% of U.S. public K–12 schools facing staffing challenges.
    5. Gates suggests that the rise of AI could lead to changes in work perception, potentially resulting in shorter workweeks and earlier retirements.

    Bill Gates believes we’re on the verge of a significant AI-driven solution to the ongoing shortages of healthcare workers and educators globally. During his appearance on the “People by WTF” podcast, he expressed his conviction that as AI technology advances, these tools will take on positions that there simply aren’t enough humans to fill.

    Healthcare Challenges

    Gates highlighted that countries like India and various regions in Africa are already facing a shortage of medical professionals. In the U.S., the situation isn’t much better, with the Association of American Medical Colleges predicting a deficit of up to 86,000 doctors by the year 2036.

    AI startups in the healthcare sector are recognizing the potential in this space and are attracting significant investment. Companies such as Suki, Zephyr AI, and Tennr have secured large funding rounds aimed at automating billing processes, recording patient notes, enhancing diagnostic precision, and even identifying candidates for new treatments. Consulting firm McKinsey estimates that generative AI could elevate productivity in healthcare and pharmaceuticals by about $370 billion.

    Education Sector Struggles

    The education sector is also feeling the pressure. Federal statistics from last year indicated that 86 percent of public K–12 schools in the U.S. had difficulties in filling teaching positions, with nearly half of them operating with reduced staff. In London, one high school even started using ChatGPT to assist students in preparing for core subject exams.

    Gates isn’t limiting his thoughts to just white-collar jobs. He firmly believes that AI-powered machines—like sophisticated robots designed for factories, construction, and hospitality—will soon take over physical jobs that were once the domain of humans. Companies like Nvidia are already investing heavily in humanoid robots capable of gripping, moving, and manipulating objects with a dexterity akin to that of humans.

    Future of Work

    This shift could significantly change our perception of work, potentially resulting in shorter workweeks and earlier retirements. Gates remarked, “It’s going to force us to rethink what we do with our time,” acknowledging that adapting to a world that has historically lacked resources will not be easy.

    Gates even referenced economist John Maynard Keynes, who famously predicted in 1930 that technological advancements would one day reduce our workweeks to a mere 15 hours—a vision that has not materialized, despite notable increases in productivity. As for Gates, he continues to work by choice rather than necessity. “I don’t have to work,” he chuckled. “I choose to—because it’s fun.”

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  • Huawei Ascend 920: Nvidia H20 Replacement Expected This Year

    Huawei Ascend 920: Nvidia H20 Replacement Expected This Year

    Key Takeaways

    1. Huawei is finding new ways to obtain advanced hardware for AI training despite TSMC blocking its chip production efforts.
    2. The newly released Ascend 910C shows potential to compete with Nvidia, but has significant limitations.
    3. The Ascend 920 chip is expected to launch soon, built using SMIC’s 6 nm class N+3 technology, with mass production starting in the latter half of 2025.
    4. The Ascend 920 is designed to deliver 900 TFLOPS of BF16 performance and 4,000 GB/s memory bandwidth with HBM3 memory.
    5. SMIC’s 6 nm class node may also be used in future products like Kirin chips for Huawei smartphones, with whispers of a developing 5 nm class node.

    Even with TSMC blocking Huawei’s efforts to produce its Ascend 910B chips using advanced technology, the large Chinese company has discovered new methods to obtain top-tier hardware for AI training. The Ascend 910C was released shortly after that setback, and a detailed analysis from SemiAnalysis indicates that it has the potential to compete with Nvidia, though there are several important limitations. Recently, a report from DigiTimes indicates that its successor, the Ascend 920, is expected to launch soon.

    Manufacturing Insights

    Well-known leaker Jukanlosreve on X has shared that the Ascend 920 will be built using SMIC’s 6 nm class N+3 technology. Mass production is set to begin in the latter half of 2025. The chip is said to deliver 900 TFLOPS of (presumably) BF16 performance and boasts a memory bandwidth of 4,000 GB/s, made possible by HBM3 memory. It is designed to replace Nvidia’s Hopper-based H20 chip, which has recently been banned for use in China.

    Future Developments

    The introduction of the Ascend 920 also marks the debut of SMIC’s new 6 nm class node, which is likely to be implemented in other products, including Kirin chips for Huawei smartphones. Although the previously anticipated Kirin 9100 didn’t succeed, there are indications that it may still launch later this year. Additionally, there have been whispers about a 5 nm class SMIC node under development, but advancements in that area may be sluggish due to limited access to EUV machinery.

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