GT Protocol AI Digest №6: Surveillance, Innovation & Regulation

Intro

This week, we delve into some of the most exciting, surprising, and even controversial AI developments. From AI-powered surveillance cameras that claim to promote better behavior to the rise of AI in the classroom and workplace, the world is rapidly adapting to — and grappling with — artificial intelligence. Whether you’re curious about AI’s growing presence in art, education, or tech infrastructure, we’ve got you covered with the most important news of the week. Let’s explore how AI is shaping our present and influencing our future.

1. AI for Surveillance and Social Control

• Omnipresent AI Cameras to Ensure “Good Behavior”: Larry Ellison, Oracle’s co-founder, is pushing the idea that AI-driven surveillance cameras can maintain good societal behavior. These cameras, described as being “omnipresent,” could monitor everything from traffic violations to workplace performance. Ellison envisions this technology as a way to create safer, more efficient environments, though critics question the ethics and potential privacy risks. Read more here
• AI Replacing Humans in Social Media: A Twitter clone known as SocialAI has replaced human interaction with bots. This experiment offers a new form of social networking where AI models converse with each other instead of people. While it can provide endless content, the experience lacks the emotional nuance of human conversation, posing questions about the future of online socialization. Read more here
• Google’s New Feature to Detect AI-Manipulated Images: In response to growing concerns about deepfakes and manipulated media, Google introduced a feature in its search engine to detect AI-manipulated images. This tool will help users verify the authenticity of photos, providing more transparency and combating the spread of disinformation. Read more here

2. AI’s Role in Industry Transformation

• AI to Potentially Replace Thousands of Call Center Jobs: ASB Bank’s Australian parent company could replace thousands of call center jobs with AI-powered solutions. By automating routine customer service tasks, companies aim to improve efficiency and reduce costs, but this shift raises concerns about job security, particularly in the service sector. Read more here
• AI in Mainframe Computing for Generative Workloads: Mainframes, typically seen as outdated, are now powering some of the most advanced AI workloads. Companies like Kyndryl are utilizing mainframes to support generative AI tasks, allowing businesses to modernize their infrastructure while still using reliable, older systems. This unexpected revival of mainframes reflects their adaptability in the AI-driven world. Read more here
• AI Underwater Vehicles Transforming Wind Inspections: An AI-powered underwater vehicle is being used to inspect offshore wind turbines, making the process more efficient and safer. This technology offers a more cost-effective way to monitor and maintain critical renewable energy infrastructure, signaling a future where AI plays a larger role in sustainable energy. Read more here

3. AI Regulation and Ethics

• LinkedIn Uses User Data to Train AI Models: LinkedIn is now using its users’ data to train AI models, though the platform offers an opt-out option. This practice has sparked debates over data privacy, with critics questioning whether users fully understand how their personal data is being used. Read more here
• IT Professionals Call for Stronger AI Regulations: SolarWinds’ recent report reveals that IT professionals are increasingly concerned about the ethical implications of AI and are advocating for stricter regulations. The call for robust guidelines is driven by fears of unchecked AI growth, including security risks and potential job displacement. Read more here
• Tech Giants Urge the EU to Simplify AI Regulations: Major tech companies are pressuring the European Union to streamline its AI regulatory framework. They argue that overly complicated regulations could stifle innovation, while clearer guidelines would encourage responsible AI development and adoption across the region. Read more here

4. AI in Culture and Education

• Cai Guo-Qiang’s Collaboration in AI and Fireworks: World-famous gunpowder artist Cai Guo-Qiang is teaming up with AI to create new forms of explosive art. This collaboration between traditional art forms and AI-generated designs offers a fresh perspective on how machines can enhance human creativity. Read more here
• Universities Must Be Wary of AI-Driven Teaching Tools: As AI-driven teaching tools become more prevalent, universities are being advised to exercise caution. While AI can streamline learning, the reliance on these tools could diminish the quality of education and lead to ethical issues around cheating and data privacy. Read more here
• OpenAI Academy Launches: OpenAI has introduced its Academy, designed to educate the public on how to use AI tools responsibly and ethically. The initiative aims to provide training and resources for individuals across various sectors, making AI literacy more accessible to everyone. Read more here

5. Fun and Quirky AI Innovations

• ChatGPT on a TI-84 Calculator: An engineer has managed to run ChatGPT on a TI-84 graphing calculator, blending nostalgia with cutting-edge technology. While this development showcases AI’s versatility, it has sparked concerns about how such innovations could be used for academic cheating. Read more here
• AI Models Trained on Lionsgate Movies: Lionsgate has partnered with Runway to train AI models on its extensive library of movies and shows. This partnership marks another step in Hollywood’s integration with AI, opening doors to AI-generated content and media innovations in the entertainment industry. Read more here
• Zuckerberg Unveils Groundbreaking AR Glasses ‘Orion’: Mark Zuckerberg has unveiled Orion, cutting-edge AR glasses that are being called the most advanced smart glasses yet. Weighing only 100 grams, they offer features like 3D avatar calls, gaming, movies, and real-time language translation. With a brain-signal-reading wristband and sleek design, they outshine bulkier competitors like Vision Pro.

Outro

AI continues to evolve at an astounding pace, influencing industries ranging from art to education to renewable energy. While some developments promise efficiency and innovation, others raise questions about ethics, job security, and privacy. As AI becomes more ingrained in daily life, it’s clear that we must balance technological advancement with thoughtful regulation and societal responsibility. Stay tuned to the GT Protocol AI Digest for more updates as we track the ever-expanding AI landscape.