Category: Artificial intelligence

  • Baidu CEO: 99% of AI Companies Likely to Fail Despite Boom

    Baidu CEO: 99% of AI Companies Likely to Fail Despite Boom

    Baidu’s CEO, Robin Li, believes that the AI sector is on the verge of a significant market correction, similar to the dot-com bubble of the late 1990s. Speaking at the Future of Business conference hosted by Harvard Business Review, he expressed his opinion that maybe only one percent of the current AI firms will endure and provide genuine value to society.

    The Rapid Rise of AI

    Recently, the AI industry has been experiencing explosive growth. Nvidia’s market capitalization soared from $300 billion to an astonishing $3.4 trillion within a mere two years. Major players like Google, Microsoft, and Apple are heavily investing in AI initiatives, pouring vast sums into these projects. Chip manufacturers such as AMD and Intel have also revamped their server-grade products to cater to the demands of AI computing.

    AI’s Journey Towards Accuracy

    Li highlighted the remarkable progress AI has made, particularly in addressing its previous inaccuracies. "I think over the past 18 months, that problem has pretty much been solved—meaning when you talk to a frontier model-based chatbot, you can basically trust the answer," Li remarked during the conference.

    A Cautious Outlook on the Future

    Despite the current excitement surrounding AI, Li cautioned that this trend is likely to lead to a bubble. He believes the industry must streamline itself, cutting out products that fail to meet customer needs. However, he is not overly concerned about AI significantly displacing jobs in the near future. Li estimates that it could take anywhere from 10 to 30 years before we see substantial changes in the workplace due to AI advancements.

    TomsHardware (in English) via Baidu (in English)

    Tags: , ,
  • Nvidia and India Discuss AI Chip Development Collaboration

    Nvidia and India Discuss AI Chip Development Collaboration

    Nvidia has put forward a plan to work with India on an AI chip production project, as mentioned by The Economic Times.

    Preliminary Discussions

    Aswini Vaishnaw, India’s Electronics and IT Minister, shared with The Economic Times that discussions are "at a preliminary stage" regarding "the development of an AI chip."

    Custom Solutions for India

    Nvidia aims to tap into India’s talent for chip design to create a specialized AI chip tailored for various applications in the country. This includes potential uses in security systems and could also support Indian startups in developing their own applications.

    Earlier in March, The Register highlighted that the Indian government approved a significant fund of ₹10,300 Crore ($1.24 billion) to enhance the country’s AI infrastructure.

    New Educational Initiatives

    The initiative will also establish a new academic center named "IndiaAI Innovation Centre," which will focus on the development, training, and deployment of foundational AI models.

    If everything proceeds smoothly, Nvidia could oversee the main design of the chip, while India’s Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) would adapt and tailor it to meet local requirements. Alternatively, customization might be taken care of by private companies.

    A government official mentioned to The Economic Times, “India is the top choice due to the sheer size of the talent available in chip design, which no other country has.”

    The source further explained, "The government is currently thrashing out the details such as costing, benefits, and use cases of such a co-developed chip."

    @narendramodi on X, The Economic Times, The Register

    Tags: , ,
  • Apple Study Shows AI Language Models Can Drop Accuracy 65%

    Apple Study Shows AI Language Models Can Drop Accuracy 65%

    A new research conducted by a group of experts at Apple is changing our perspective on the intelligence behind large language models (LLMs) such as ChatGPT. The investigation, headed by Iman Mirzadeh, introduced a fresh assessment known as GSM-Symbolic to evaluate the performance of these AI frameworks in math and logical reasoning tasks.

    Findings Reveal Limitations

    The results weren’t impressive for the AI systems. When researchers included random additional information in the questions, the accuracy of the models plummeted significantly—sometimes by as much as 65 percent—even though the main question remained untouched. This indicates that these AI entities do not truly comprehend the tasks they’re assigned.

    Understanding vs. Appearing Intelligent

    The research highlights a crucial distinction between seeming intelligent and truly understanding concepts. Many responses generated by AI might appear correct at first glance, but upon closer inspection, they often unravel. This underscores the fact that speaking like a human does not equate to thinking like one.

    Rethinking Our Trust

    Due to these findings, the study encourages us to reconsider the level of trust and reliance we place on these AI systems. While they are capable of performing remarkable feats, they also exhibit considerable weaknesses, particularly with complex or challenging problems. Acknowledging these shortcomings is vital for the responsible use of AI technologies.

    In conclusion, this research serves as a reminder that, even though AI can provide assistance, we must remain vigilant about its capabilities and limitations. As these technologies increasingly integrate into our daily routines, understanding their boundaries will be essential for using them wisely and ethically.

    Tags: , ,
  • Google Partners with Kairos Power for Nuclear-Powered Data Centers

    Google Partners with Kairos Power for Nuclear-Powered Data Centers

    Google is launching an ambitious initiative to employ small nuclear reactors to supply energy for its AI data centers. They have partnered with Kairos Power to realize this vision, aiming to have the first reactor operational by the decade’s end and to introduce additional reactors by 2035.

    Innovative Cooling Methods

    Unlike traditional reactors that use water, these new systems will utilize molten salt for cooling, enhancing efficiency and being more environmentally friendly. The technology from Kairos Power emphasizes smaller, adaptable reactors, which outperform the conventional large nuclear facilities that most people are familiar with.

    Meeting Energy Demands

    As the need for AI technology soars, finding a clean, steady, and dependable energy source has become critically important. Nuclear energy, being carbon-free and capable of delivering continuous power, aligns perfectly with the tech sector’s objective to lower its carbon emissions.

    Michael Terrell, who is Google’s Senior Director for Energy, emphasized that this innovative energy strategy will enhance AI capabilities while remaining environmentally responsible.

    Regulatory Hurdles Ahead

    However, the project faces some challenges. It must navigate rigorous regulatory frameworks. The arrangement requires clearance from the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission as well as local authorities in the regions where the reactors will be built. These approvals can take a long time and are accompanied by strict safety and environmental guidelines.

    Google isn’t the sole company exploring nuclear energy. Other major corporations, such as Amazon and Microsoft, are also considering it. Amazon intends to acquire a nuclear-powered data center in Pennsylvania, while Microsoft is working on reviving the old Three Mile Island nuclear facility.

    Future of Data Center Energy

    Nuclear energy presents a robust solution, especially since energy consumption in data centers is projected to double by 2030. It provides clean, uninterrupted power, which is a major advantage for tech firms looking to innovate while minimizing their carbon footprint.

    Nonetheless, nuclear energy continues to provoke discussion due to its waste production and safety concerns. Yet, its near-zero carbon emissions position it as a strong competitor in the industry’s efforts to reduce pollution.

    Google’s collaboration with Kairos Power is indicative of a larger movement, as technology giants pivot towards alternative energy solutions to satisfy the growing needs of AI and digital infrastructure while being mindful of sustainability.

    Tags: , ,
  • Terms Update Allows X to Sell User Data to Third Parties

    Terms Update Allows X to Sell User Data to Third Parties

    The social media site X, which used to be called Twitter, has updated its general terms and conditions (T&Cs). Now, these terms permit the sharing of customer data with third parties. This allows X to sell user data to various companies, which can then utilize it for their own needs, like training their artificial intelligence systems.

    Changes Coming Soon

    These alterations to the T&Cs will take effect on November 15, 2024, and will automatically apply to all users. The new privacy policy mentions:

    “If you do not opt out, recipients of the information may in some cases use it for their own independent purposes, including, for example, to train their artificial intelligence models, in addition to the purposes specified in X’s Privacy Policy.”

    Criticism and Concerns

    X has faced backlash for its management of user data for a while now. In 2023, the firm, owned by Elon Musk of Tesla and SpaceX fame, was criticized by the EU Commission for breaching the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the Digital Services Act (DSA). This incident involved unlawful micro-targeting in political ads. The recent modifications to the terms and conditions are expected to intensify discussions about user data protection.

    Users can choose to object to their data being shared. However, this requires them to take action, which means they must be aware that their data is being shared in the first place. Even though there are still a few days until October 15, X has yet to disclose where users can find the opt-out option.

    New Measures Against Data Collectors

    Alongside the updates to the data protection policy, X is also putting stricter rules in place against external data harvesters. The new T&Cs will impose hefty fines for those using automated tools to gather large amounts of data from the platform. If an account is found to be viewing 1 million posts in a 24-hour period, it will incur a fine of $15,000, with the same penalty applying for each additional million posts viewed.

    Tags: , ,
  • AI-Designed Proteins: Impact on Tumors and Pollution Control

    AI-Designed Proteins: Impact on Tumors and Pollution Control

    This year, the Nobel Prize in Chemistry was given to scientists who developed AI tools for protein design. John Jumper and Demis Hassabis, associated with Google DeepMind, received the award for their innovative work on AlphaFold. This program successfully predicts the 3D structure of proteins based on their amino acid sequences. This breakthrough addresses the long-standing issue of determining protein shapes, which is crucial for comprehending their functions.

    Innovations in Protein Design

    David Baker from the University of Washington was honored for his advancements in creating new proteins tailored to specific functions. His software, known as Rosetta, allows for the synthesis of proteins from the ground up, creating various possibilities in the realms of medicine and technology.

    Real-World Applications

    These AI advancements have already made strides in vaccine development, notably with a COVID-19 vaccine aimed at the spike protein of the virus. Baker and his team have also engineered proteins that can neutralize snake venom and are actively researching proteins to combat cancer and other illnesses. Beyond healthcare, protein design is being utilized to tackle environmental challenges, such as producing enzymes that can decompose plastics and transform waste into biofuels. All of these areas are vital for helping society move towards a more sustainable future, making this research significantly important.

    Tags: , ,
  • Tesla Optimus Robot Gains AI Communication, Hive Mind, Self-Charging

    Tesla Optimus Robot Gains AI Communication, Hive Mind, Self-Charging

    While Tesla’s Vice President for Optimus robot development has confirmed that the bots showcased at the Robotaxi event were helped by human operators, he also mentioned that a significant update with new features is on the way.

    Exciting New Features Announced

    It looks like that update is happening today, as the Optimus team has just revealed a range of new capabilities, some of which might have been demonstrated during the Robotaxi celebrations.

    To start, the Tesla Bot has gained the ability to communicate with other Optimus humanoids nearby, allowing it to map out unfamiliar environments. Additionally, it can now explore "unseen" areas independently.

    Enhanced Physical Abilities

    The robots have also improved their physical skills, now capable of climbing stairs and handling substantial loads, like a 25-pound tray filled with battery cells.

    Perhaps the most noteworthy feature of the new Optimus robot is its ability to utilize artificial intelligence and interact with humans through a neural network that operates in real-time on the bots. This means it can recognize and fetch various objects on command, marking a significant step towards functioning as a humanoid butler.

    Autonomous Charging Capabilities

    On the topic of autonomy, the Tesla Bot can now independently search for, find, and plug into the nearest charging station, even in unfamiliar settings.

    Tesla’s Optimus charging connector appears to be situated on its back, and the rear cameras will now assist in locating nearby charging stations.

    It remains uncertain how many of these features were actively used during the Robotaxi presentation, as the Optimus bots there seemed to walk and dance autonomously, yet likely required human help to pour drinks at the bar or engage with attendees.

    Tags: , ,
  • Tesla’s Optimus Bots Walked and Danced at Robotaxi Event

    Tesla’s Optimus Bots Walked and Danced at Robotaxi Event

    One of the key Tesla engineers involved in the Optimus robot initiative shed some light on how the Tesla Bots behaved during the unveiling of the Robotaxi.

    As Elon Musk hinted that the Optimus robots would be mingling among guests and even serving drinks at the bar after the event, it appears that their ability to perform more intricate tasks was somewhat exaggerated.

    Insights from Tesla’s Engineer

    Milan Kovac, the engineer behind the Tesla Bot, explained that the roughly twenty Optimus units showcased at the event were able to walk and dance independently for four hours. However, when it came to handling more complex functions, the robots didn’t use any mysterious AI to determine who ordered how many drinks; they were actually "human-assisted." This should not come as a surprise.

    Throughout the event, about 20 bots were constantly active—navigating through a busy crowd, dancing, snapping selfies, and even serving drinks and snacks. While they were indeed assisted by humans to some degree to illustrate our vision for a fantastic future, they managed to walk, balance, and dance on their own for approximately four hours, with only one minor incident (a handbag got in the way of a bot’s movement).

    A Showcase of Innovation

    Overall, it was an impressive display, especially when combined with other announcements like the Cybercab and the self-driving minibus.

    The primary goal of featuring the Tesla Bot was to highlight the advancement in the robotic hand’s capabilities, which increased from 11 degrees of freedom to 22. This change significantly enhances the tactile sensing abilities of the robots. Additionally, the demonstration showcased the autonomy and balance of the Tesla Bots.

    Creating appealing demonstration videos is challenging, but ensuring safe, live functioning of numerous humanoid robots for hours in a public outdoor setting set a much higher standard. This effort led to major advancements in full-body control, locomotion, hardware stability, and overall infrastructure.

    Future Prospects

    Nevertheless, the Optimus bots observed pouring drinks with rather slow and careful motions, as well as interacting with attendees, were all under the guidance of human operators. This suggests that Elon Musk’s vision of having an Optimus as a personal butler for $30,000 each is still quite a way off.

    Kovac did hint at some major progress in the autonomy of the Tesla Bots that the company has made, and he teased that more information will be shared with the robot-enthusiast public "soon."

    Tags: , ,
  • Lenovo Launches AI Agent and Learning Platform for Next-Gen PCs

    Lenovo Launches AI Agent and Learning Platform for Next-Gen PCs

    Lenovo AI Now utilizes Llama 3.1 to offer a fresh, chat-oriented method for locating documents, files, and various data on the newest Lenovo PCs. The interface is organized into clear sections that aim to be user-friendly, featuring a PC Assistant that includes automatically created shortcuts for commands like "Turn on Battery Saver Mode."

    Local and Cloud Chat Features

    The AI Now program also includes sections for Local and Cloud Chat. Lenovo claims that it uses Microsoft Azure AI Content Safety and has received certifications like the UL Verified Mark for AI Model Transparency, ensuring user safety and security.

    Learning Zone Tools

    This AI can operate fully on the device, much like the Lenovo Learning Zone, a brand new set of tools and services designed to enhance education, whether it’s online or face-to-face. It’s designed to gather resources like audio/video lectures, PDF files, and presentations to create notes and summaries, which can be organized by subject.

    The Learning Zone is also capable of creating its own quizzes to help improve retention and engagement with educational content.

    Availability of Features

    This tool is expected to be available as a free optional download for select Lenovo AI PCs starting in December 2024, while AI Now is anticipated to launch in the first quarter of 2025.

    Lenovo Press Release

    Lenovo presents at Tech World 2024 Smarter AI for All with a comprehensive range of AI devices, solutions, and concepts.

  • Motorola Moto AI: Personalized Features for an Intuitive Experience

    Motorola Moto AI: Personalized Features for an Intuitive Experience

    Motorola has launched a new set of features powered by AI, all of which are grouped under the name Moto AI. These innovations are designed to improve the smartphone experience, making daily tasks more user-friendly. The company is concentrating on three main areas, with "Assist" being one of them.

    Moto AI’s Understanding Capabilities

    The Moto AI system is capable of comprehending user commands and adapting to their habits to provide personalized recommendations. This is accomplished through the use of Large Action Models (LAMs). Naturally, privacy can be a worry, but Motorola assures users that all information is stored securely and locally. Users can easily manage and access their data when they need to.

    Enhancing Creativity

    Another important focus area is "Create." The new AI suite aims to boost users’ creativity. Moto AI can generate summaries of conversations, photos, and documents using AI technology. It also claims to make photo and video editing easier through advanced editing options.

    Improving Photo Quality

    The final area of focus for Motorola is "Capture," where Moto AI seeks to simplify the process of taking high-quality pictures. It includes features like automatic scene detection, which enhances the quality of images taken. Additionally, the AI suite aids in capturing documents and converting them into various digital formats effortlessly.

    Motorola also aims to provide a smooth experience across multiple devices with Moto AI. This is facilitated by Smart Connect, which enables users to control and connect to different devices using natural language commands. Data sharing between connected devices is also straightforward.

    Motorola has not specifically listed which phones will support Moto AI yet. However, the company has indicated that these features are currently being tested in beta and will gradually be made available via invitations. The latest Motorola flagship models are expected to gain access sooner, such as the 12/256 GB 2024 Razr+ currently priced at $799.99 on Amazon.

    Motorola PR’

    Tags: , ,