Daily AI NEWS - May 22, 2024
Microsoft, Scarlett, and AI

Microsoft has introduced Copilot Runtime, streamlining the development of AI-powered apps for Windows. The company is leveraging the Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite chip in its new Surface devices, positioning them as Copilot+ PCs optimized for AI tasks.

In a strategic push, Microsoft is targeting the AI PC market with its latest Surface Pro and Surface Laptop models, claiming they outperform the 15" M3 MacBook Air. Preorders for these devices begin ahead of their June 17th release. Additionally, new tools like the Cocreator in Microsoft Paint and AI-powered video translation in Microsoft Edge are indicative of the company's comprehensive AI integration across its products.

Microsoft's focus extends to improving Windows' core functionalities with AI. The newly announced Recall feature aims to revolutionize local search efficiency on Windows 11 PCs, enhancing the user experience. Collectively, these advancements underscore Microsoft's commitment to embedding AI deeply into its ecosystem, promising enhanced performance and user capabilities.

Scarlett Johansson expressed shock after discovering OpenAI used her voice in the GPT-4o model despite her explicit denial of CEO Sam Altman’s request. Johansson’s legal team has since issued demands for OpenAI to reveal how it created the controversial voice.

OpenAI has now paused its “Sky” voice profile for the GPT-4o model after users noted it sounded remarkably like Johansson. OpenAI insists that Sky's voice is not an imitation and claims it was sampled from an undisclosed actor.

In the midst of this, Elon Musk commented, comparing the incident to a “Black Mirror” episode, hinting at underlying ethical concerns. Johansson previously sued Disney, showing her willingness to legally challenge organizations over similar disputes.

US collaboration with key allies, including the UK, Japan, and Canada, aims to manage the risks posed by artificial intelligence, as announced by US Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. This initiative underscores the growing global commitment to AI safety and regulation.

Amidst multiple PR setbacks, OpenAI's cofounder John Schulman highlighted the rapid approach of artificial general intelligence (AGI) and the need for 'reasonable limits'. Recently, OpenAI has faced criticism from a former safety executive and rumors involving NDAs for departing staff, putting CEO Sam Altman in crisis management mode.

Globally, top AI firms have pledged new safety measures at the Seoul summit. Also, noted AI pioneers have warned about potential loss of control over AI systems without urgent intervention, emphasizing the critical need for stringent regulations and proactive oversight.

Google's AI integration in Search, especially through AI overviews, poses a significant threat to online media and publishing. These overviews may cause a shift in how content is consumed, potentially undermining digital publishing.

Google announced that it will soon introduce ads within its AI Overviews, aiming to monetize this new feature. This move signifies a step toward leveraging AI for revenue generation amidst increasing integration.

A new Chrome extension allows users to remove Google’s AI overviews from Search, catering to those who prefer traditional search results. Meanwhile, Google CEO Sundar Pichai has provided vague answers regarding the long-term impact of AI on the web.

Adobe Lightroom is getting new generative AI tools that aim to make the photo editing platform easier to use for both professional creatives and inexperienced users.

Generative Remove, an AI-powered feature, can remove any element from a photo with a single click. This tool now updates Lightroom software for both iPad and Mac, providing a non-destructive editing experience.

Adobe is continuing to push AI efforts by expanding features in Lightroom, aiming to reduce distractions and enhance creative workflow significantly.