Category: Artificial intelligence

  • Huawei CEO reveals strategy to keep China leading in AI

    Huawei CEO reveals strategy to keep China leading in AI

    At the World AI Conference in Shanghai, Zhang Ping’an, CEO of Huawei Cloud, delivered a compelling message about China's AI progress despite U.S. sanctions on advanced GPUs and chipmaking technology. Even with restricted access to top-tier processors, Zhang stressed that China can still lead in AI without solely depending on high-end chips.

    Zhang downplayed concerns that limitations on advanced AI processors, such as Nvidia’s H100/H200 and B100/B200, would heavily obstruct China’s AI development. He emphasized that China's AI leadership should not hinge on these advanced chips. Acknowledging the current limitations in computing power due to the sanctions, Zhang highlighted the significance of being independent of the most cutting-edge technology.

    Huawei's Ascend Processors

    Zhang pointed to Huawei’s efforts in developing the Ascend 910-series processors for AI applications. He claimed these processors are competitive with Nvidia’s A100, although this assertion has not been independently verified by analysts in Europe and the U.S. The U.S. restrictions on Nvidia processors mean that major Chinese tech companies like Baidu, Huawei, and Tencent must rely on domestic technology, which Zhang sees as an opportunity rather than a setback.

    source: huawei.com

    However, Zhang acknowledged the performance limitations of domestic processors. He admitted that processors from Huawei and Biren Technology, produced on older manufacturing nodes, cannot match the performance of modern AI and high-performance computing GPUs from AMD and Nvidia. Additionally, SMIC, which manufactures chips for Huawei and Biren, lacks access to cutting-edge equipment, contributing to China’s lag in per-processor computing performance.

    Strategic Approach to Overcome Challenges

    To address these challenges, Zhang advocated for a comprehensive approach combining cloud, edge, and network technologies to improve efficiency and reduce power consumption for AI workloads. He highlighted Huawei Cloud as a leading provider of AI services, suggesting that leveraging cloud technology could offset the lack of advanced AI processors. However, it remains unclear whether Huawei’s processors are recommended for training large language models directly in Huawei Cloud or if they should be trained on external machines and then deployed in Huawei Cloud.

    Overall, Zhang emphasized the need to discard the belief that the absence of the most advanced AI chips precludes leadership in AI. He expressed confidence that through innovation and a strategic approach, China can maintain its leading position in AI development despite the ongoing U.S. sanctions.

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  • Apple Joins OpenAI Board as Observer, Gaining AI Future Insights

    Apple Joins OpenAI Board as Observer, Gaining AI Future Insights

    In a major development revealed last month, Apple will assume an observer role on OpenAI’s board. This collaboration aims to enhance Apple’s AI capabilities and its standing in the technology sector. Phil Schiller, who heads Apple’s App Store and is the former marketing chief, will take on this role later this year.

    Phil Schiller will participate in OpenAI’s board meetings, gaining crucial insights into their decision-making processes, though without the authority to vote or influence decisions. This position will allow Apple a closer look at OpenAI’s strategies and innovations.

    Competitiveness in AI

    This move aligns Apple with Microsoft, OpenAI’s largest backer and primary AI technology supplier, enabling Apple to remain competitive in the swiftly advancing AI field.

    However, this alliance could introduce complications due to the long-standing rivalry between Microsoft and Apple. Microsoft might prefer Schiller to be excluded from discussions about future AI projects involving both companies.

    Phil Schiller, an Apple Fellow, manages the App Store and oversees product launches. Although he stepped down as head of marketing in 2020, he is still a key figure at Apple. He also holds a director position at the medical technology company Illumina.

    Integration of ChatGPT with Apple Devices

    During the WWDC 2024 event in June, Apple announced that ChatGPT would be integrated into iPhones, iPads, and Macs as part of its AI feature suite. The forthcoming iOS 18 will introduce enhanced AI capabilities on Apple devices. ChatGPT will manage complex tasks, while on-device AI models will handle simpler tasks.

    This partnership is not financially driven. OpenAI gains access to millions of Apple users, and Apple benefits from integrating ChatGPT, potentially offering a paid version of ChatGPT that could generate revenue through App Store fees.

    Future AI Collaborations

    Apple is also negotiating with other AI developers, including Google, start-up Anthropic, Baidu, and Alibaba Group Holding, to explore further chatbot integrations. The new AI features, branded as “Apple Intelligence,” will first launch in American English, with plans for a global rollout.

    OpenAI has faced several controversies, such as the temporary removal of CEO Sam Altman and criticisms regarding AI safety. For Apple, securing an observer role with a high-profile partner like OpenAI is a rare occurrence, underscoring the importance of this alliance.

    This observer role for Apple on OpenAI’s board, coupled with the integration of ChatGPT into its devices, marks a significant step in Apple’s AI strategy. This partnership not only enhances AI capabilities on Apple devices but also paves the way for future advancements in artificial intelligence.

    Apple Joins OpenAI Board as Observer, Gaining AI Future Insights
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  • Samsung Q2 Profit Soars 13x, Boosted by AI and Chip Industry

    Samsung Q2 Profit Soars 13x, Boosted by AI and Chip Industry

    Samsung Electronics has projected a staggering 13-fold increase in its second-quarter profit, marking a notable recovery from the same period last year. The estimated operating profit for Q2 2024 is 8.8 trillion won ($6.34 billion), a significant rise from the 670 billion won reported in Q2 2023. This represents Samsung's highest profit since the third quarter of 2022.

    A key contributor to this profit spike is the rebounding performance of Samsung’s semiconductor division. This sector has dramatically improved, with an estimated operating profit of 4.6 trillion won in Q2 2024, reversing a loss of 4.36 trillion won from the same period last year. The surge in demand for high-end DRAM chips, especially those utilized in artificial intelligence (AI) applications, has driven this growth. Prices for DRAM chips have increased by 13% to 18%, while NAND Flash chips used for data storage have risen by 15% to 20%.

    AI Boom Boosts Chip Demand

    The thriving AI sector has significantly bolstered Samsung’s profits, with a heightened requirement for advanced memory chips like high-bandwidth memory (HBM) solutions employed in AI data centers. This trend has led to an uptick in prices and demand for Samsung’s premium DRAM chips, crucial for AI chipsets and data center servers.

    Despite the overall profit growth, Samsung’s mobile business has faced a decline. The projected Q2 operating profit for this segment is 2.2 trillion won, down from 3.04 trillion won a year earlier. This decrease is due to higher costs for parts and marketing, as well as investments in AI service development. The volume of smartphones shipped remains consistent with last year, suggesting that external factors like increased costs are affecting profits.

    Upcoming Product Launches

    Samsung plans to unveil its latest flagship foldable phones, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Galaxy Z Flip 6, along with new mobile accessories, on July 10 in Paris. Additionally, the company is introducing a new health monitoring ring, aiming to rival Apple in the high-end market.

    Analysts have estimated Samsung’s Q2 operating profit to be between 8.547 trillion won and 8.8 trillion won. Samsung is expected to provide a detailed earnings report at the end of the month. The company’s strategy to expand and diversify its business divisions, along with the rising chip prices, indicates a promising future ahead.

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  • Elon Musk to Speak at World AI Conference in Shanghai

    Elon Musk to Speak at World AI Conference in Shanghai

    The World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) is scheduled to occur in Shanghai from July 4th to July 7th, 2024. The theme for this year is “Governing AI for Good and for All,” and the event will span a massive exhibition area of 52,000 square meters.

    One of the most eagerly awaited moments of the conference is the appearance of Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla. Musk is slated to deliver a speech at the opening ceremony, though it remains uncertain whether he will be present in person or will participate via video. Historically, Musk has attended WAIC in person in 2019 and sent video messages in 2021 and 2022.

    Tesla’s Showcase and Premier’s Speech

    Musk’s recent visit to China in April 2024, during which he met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Beijing, adds further significance to his role in the conference. During this visit, they discussed Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) software and data-transfer permissions. Premier Li Qiang is also expected to deliver a speech at WAIC.

    Tesla will have a notable presence at the conference, displaying its cutting-edge products. The Cybertruck will be featured, along with the latest version of Tesla’s humanoid robot, Optimus Gen 2. This advanced robot includes in-house designed actuators and sensors, a 2-DoF actuated neck, and a 30% faster walking speed than its predecessor. Two Optimus robots are already autonomously performing tasks in Tesla’s factories.

    Challenges and Discussions

    Musk’s speech at WAIC aligns with the European Union’s imposition of preliminary tariffs on Chinese electric vehicle (EV) imports. Tesla, as the largest exporter of EVs from China to Europe, faces an additional 21% tariff. The company has requested a distinct duty rate from the Commission.

    WAIC will assemble leading scientists, industry leaders, and government officials to explore AI advancements, robotics, autonomous systems, large models, computing power, and “AI+” applications. At the 2023 conference, Musk commended China’s swift progress in AI and emphasized the transformative potential of AI and autonomous driving technologies.

    With Musk’s involvement and Tesla’s innovative exhibits, the World AI Conference in Shanghai is set to be an exciting and much-anticipated event.

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  • MediaTek AI-Powered Video Creation on Dimensity 9300 & 8300

    MediaTek AI-Powered Video Creation on Dimensity 9300 & 8300

    AI is rapidly evolving, enabling the creation of videos from stable images, a process termed image-to-video creation. Utilizing stable diffusion, AI can transform still images into videos. Advanced AI models have now made it possible to generate text-to-video content based on user prompts. For example, OpenAI’s Sora can produce highly realistic videos. For a closer look, check out OpenAI’s Sora and computer-generated videos using the provided link.

    Text to Video – AI Generated Image by OpenAI

    AI-powered video creation is revolutionary, but many existing AI-based media generation tools restrict the number of videos users can create. Due to the substantial processing power required, running these AI models locally on your device might be more efficient.

    MediaTek & Kwai

    A recent ITHome news article suggests that MediaTek may enable on-device AI video creation with its Dimensity 9300 and 8300 chipsets. These chipsets’ NPUs will facilitate video generation from stable images. MediaTek was rumored to introduce this feature at MWC 2024, and now a partnership with Kwai has been unveiled. Kwai, a video-sharing platform and editor akin to TikTok and CapCut, will collaborate with MediaTek.

    MediaTek AI-Powered Video Creation on Dimensity 9300 & 8300
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  • OpenAI Bans China Developers, Boosting Local AI Sector Growth

    OpenAI Bans China Developers, Boosting Local AI Sector Growth

    OpenAI’s decision to restrict access for developers based in China is set to reshape the AI industry in the region. Industry experts and analysts suggest that this decision won't impede but rather boost the development of the Chinese AI sector.

    Zhou Hongyi, CEO of Qihoo 360, foresees that the restriction will steer Chinese users towards indigenous AI models. Qihoo 360 has already crafted its own large language model (LLM). Even though OpenAI’s services are officially unavailable in China, developers have been using VPNs and APIs to circumvent these restrictions. However, this new ban is eliciting a quick response from Chinese tech companies eager to seize the opportunity.

    Incentives from Local Companies

    In response to OpenAI’s ban, various Chinese firms are rolling out incentives to lure developers. Beijing-based Zhipu AI, for instance, has introduced a “special house-moving plan” to ease the transition to its platform. Prominent companies like Alibaba, Baidu, Baichuan, and 01.ai are also extending multiple perks, such as discounts, freebies, and technical support. Baidu is offering free AI model fine-tuning and 50 million free tokens, while SenseTime Group Inc. is providing 50 million free tokens and Zhipu AI is giving away 150 million tokens along with training sessions.

    source:openai.com

    Market Impact and Future Prospects

    The ban could have a significant impact on the market, potentially leading to the exit of smaller startups that emerged during the “battle of a hundred models.” There are concerns about whether other open-source models, like Meta’s Llama, will also cut off access to Chinese developers.

    This move by OpenAI is likely to benefit local LLMs by reducing competition, but Chinese developers may face challenges in accessing advanced global algorithms. This aligns with the US government’s strategy to limit Chinese access to advanced AI and semiconductor technology, affecting the broader US-China tech rivalry.

    In the long run, the lack of access to global tools might decelerate Chinese AI advancements. Alibaba Chairman Joe Tsai estimates it will take two years for Chinese AI models to reach parity with their US counterparts. This scenario might also speed up the migration of Chinese tech startups to overseas markets in search of more stable opportunities.

    Continued Access via Microsoft

    Microsoft, however, continues to provide access to OpenAI models for eligible Hong Kong customers through its Azure cloud platform, with no changes to Azure OpenAI service offerings in Hong Kong. This ensures that some developers in the region still have the tools they need.

    Overall, OpenAI’s restriction is not a setback but a catalyst for growth and transformation in the Chinese AI sector. With over 200 home-grown LLMs, including 117 approved for public release, China is well-positioned to bolster its standing in the global AI industry.

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  • Honor Launches AI Eye Protection and Deepfake Detection

    Honor Launches AI Eye Protection and Deepfake Detection

    Honor has showcased its advancements in on-device AI at MWC Shanghai 2024, with a focus on user empowerment and safety. The company introduced two AI features: AI Defocus Eye Protection and AI Deepfake Detection.

    With the rise of nearsightedness due to prolonged screen time, Honor’s AI Defocus Eye Protection offers a unique solution. By simulating defocus glasses on the device’s display, this technology induces controlled defocus in peripheral vision, slowing down the eye elongation process linked to myopia. Early tests indicate an average 13-degree reduction in transient myopia after 25 minutes of reading, with some users experiencing up to 75 degrees reduction.

    AI Deepfake Detection

    On the other hand, Honor’s AI Deepfake Detection tackles the growing threat of manipulated content and online scams. The on-device feature scrutinizes factors like eye contact, lighting consistency, image clarity, and video playback for inconsistencies often undetectable by the human eye.

    This AI is trained on a vast dataset of videos and images associated with online scams. This allows it to identify, screen, and compare content in a mere three seconds! If synthetic or altered content is detected, a user receives an immediate risk warning, safeguarding them from potential scams.

    Commitment to On-Device AI

    Honor emphasizes its commitment to on-device AI, believing it to be the key to delivering personalized services while safeguarding user privacy. Unlike cloud-based AI, which relies on remote servers, on-device AI processes data directly on the smartphone, ensuring greater control and security for users.

    Honor’s CEO George Zhao envisions a future where on-device AI empowers users, seamlessly integrating into their lives and enhancing their capabilities. With AI Defocus Eye Protection and AI Deepfake Detection, Honor is taking significant steps towards this vision, demonstrating the transformative potential of human-centric AI.

    Honor Launches AI Eye Protection and Deepfake Detection
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  • China’s Big Bet on Memory Chips: Can They Win the Global Race?

    China’s Big Bet on Memory Chips: Can They Win the Global Race?

    China faces a challenging yet promising landscape in the high-bandwidth memory (HBM) chip market and the broader semiconductor industry, driven by surging global demand and strategic expansions.

    High-bandwidth memory chips are experiencing a significant surge in demand, primarily due to their vital role in AI applications within data centers. This growing demand is expected to contribute to around an 80% revenue growth in the global memory chip market this year, recovering from a low base in the previous year. Leading this market are SK Hynix, holding a 50% global market share, followed by Samsung Electronics and the US-based Micron Technology.

    China’s Position and Challenges

    China accounts for 30-35% of global memory consumption. However, the country faces substantial challenges in producing high-end memory chips due to limitations in its semiconductor supply chain. Currently, China’s production capabilities are more suited to mid to low-end memory solutions. Consequently, as China’s AI ecosystem continues to expand, it will increasingly rely on imports, particularly from Korean memory chip producers.

    Despite these challenges, China is actively working to strengthen its position in the HBM market. ChangXin Memory Technologies (CXMT) represents China’s leading hope for domestic HBM production. CXMT, in collaboration with TongFu Microelectronics, is developing HBM samples, although it may take up to four years for these products to reach the market. In the interim, China sees potential growth opportunities in lower-end memory products, particularly for AI edge devices such as autonomous vehicles, AI-enabled smartphones, and personal computers. By 2025, the demand from edge AI applications is expected to drive about 20% industry revenue growth.

    External Challenges

    China’s ambitions in the semiconductor sector are also constrained by external factors, including potential further restrictions from the US, Japan, and the Netherlands on developing HBM chips.

    Strategic Expansion Amid US Sanctions

    In response to fears of more US sanctions, Chinese semiconductor companies, including SMIC and Hua Hong Semiconductor Group, are ramping up their capacities. Investments are primarily focused on legacy chips used in applications like cars and consumer electronics. This year, China’s wafer fabrication capacity is projected to increase by 15% to 8.9 million wafers per month, with a further 14% increase to 10.1 million wafers per month expected next year. This rapid growth is set to make China account for about 30% of the world’s total wafer fabrication capacity, outpacing global growth rates.

    Economic and Market Impact

    The expansion efforts have led to a significant surge in sales of semiconductor wafer fab equipment in China, which saw a 48% increase last year compared to a mere 1% worldwide growth rate. Meanwhile, China’s imports of integrated circuits (ICs) dropped by 10.8% in volume and 15.4% in value.

    Despite these aggressive expansions, analysts warn of potential overcapacity in the next two years, which could drive global chip prices down. Additionally, the Biden administration’s planned tariffs on $18 billion worth of Chinese imports, including a 50% hike on semiconductor imports, add to the complexities.

    However, China’s drive towards self-sufficiency has benefited local foundries like SMIC and Yangtze Memory Technologies Corp. These foundries enjoy higher capacity utilization rates due to domestic substitution policies. For example, Hua Hong Semiconductor operates at maximum capacity and plans a 10% price increase in the latter half of the year.

    Local foundries in China are showing a faster recovery in capacity utilization compared to their global peers, supported by high customer demand during the traditional peak inventory stocking season. Recent price adjustments aim to alleviate profit pressures rather than indicating a full recovery in demand.

    China is strategically expanding its semiconductor capacity to mitigate the impact of US sanctions and reduce reliance on imports. While rapid growth brings the risk of overcapacity, domestic policies, and self-sufficiency drives provide significant advantages, positioning China as a formidable player in the global semiconductor market.

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  • Android Circle to Search May Soon Include Audio and Music Features

    Android Circle to Search May Soon Include Audio and Music Features

    Samsung's Galaxy S24 series has introduced Galaxy AI, a suite of artificial intelligence-powered features designed to simplify everyday tasks. Among the standout features of Galaxy AI is Google's Circle to Search, which is now accessible on Pixel devices as well.

    The Circle to Search feature allows users to obtain information about anything on their screen by simply drawing a circle around it. Recently, new reports indicate that Google is working on enhancing Circle to Search by adding the capability to recognize songs and popular audio clips.

    New Audio Search Button

    The information comes from @AssembleDebug, who uncovered it during an APK teardown, as noted by Android Authority. According to the report, the latest beta version of the Google app, which supports Circle to Search on Android devices, includes a code string that references a new Audio search button.

    <string name="omnient_zerostate_audio_search_button_content_description">Audio search button</string>

    AssembleDebug succeeded in enabling the UI for this new button, which resembles a musical note. The button appears alongside the existing button for on-screen text translation.

    Functionality and Speculations

    Currently, the button is non-functional, and Google has not provided an official explanation regarding its purpose. However, based on the musical note icon, it is speculated that clicking the button could allow Circle to Search to use the phone's microphone to analyze ambient sounds.

    If a song or well-known audio clip is detected, the feature would then offer relevant information. There is also the possibility that Circle to Search might allow users to hum a tune for identification. It is worth noting that there is already a microphone icon in the search bar that offers similar song search capabilities.

    If this feature operates as anticipated, it would make song identification and information retrieval simpler for Android users. Hopefully, the upcoming beta version of the Google app will shed light on the button's functionalities by activating them. We will keep you updated with any new details about the feature as they become available.

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  • Amazon’s Alexa Adds Monthly Subscription Fee for Prime Members

    Amazon’s Alexa Adds Monthly Subscription Fee for Prime Members

    Amazon is preparing to revamp Alexa, though accessing its most advanced features may come with a price tag. Reports indicate a potential $5 to $10 monthly subscription fee in addition to a Prime membership to unlock the AI-enhanced Alexa. This upgraded assistant is slated for release in August 2024 and promises several enhancements.

    Enhanced Capabilities

    The new advanced Alexa is expected to offer personalized advice for activities like shopping or art. The need to say “Alexa” repeatedly might be eliminated. The updated version could process and complete multiple requests simultaneously, such as drafting an email and ordering takeout at the same time. It might even adapt to user habits, customizing routines like starting the coffee maker when the alarm sounds. Additionally, this sophisticated Alexa is anticipated to provide nuanced shopping recommendations.

    Free Tier Still Available

    Despite these changes, Amazon will not completely phase out the free tier. A basic version of Alexa with new generative AI features will remain accessible. This strategy appears to be a response to the escalating competition in the AI assistant market, with rivals like Google, Microsoft, OpenAI, and Apple's improved Siri all vying for user engagement. Alexa’s future strategy seems to focus on a dual approach: maintaining a free basic service while introducing a premium tier with advanced functionalities.

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