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A study conducted by OpenResearch has shed light on the transformative potential of universal basic income (UBI). The research aimed to “learn from participants’ experiences and better understand both the potential and the limitations of unconditional cash transfers.” The study – which provided participants with an extra $1,000 per month – revealed significant impacts across various aspects of recipients’ lives, including health, spending habits, employment, personal agency, and housing mobility. In healthcare, the analysis showed increased utilisation of medical services, particularly in dental and specialist care. One participant noted, “I got myself braces…I feel like people underestimate the importance of having nice teeth because it affects more than just your own sense of self, it affects how people look at you.” While no immediate measurable effects on physical health were observed, researchers suggest that increased medical care utilisation could lead to long-term health benefits. The study also uncovered interesting spending patterns among UBI recipients. On average, participants increased their overall monthly spending by $310, with significant allocations towards basic needs such as food, transportation, and rent. Notably, there was a 26% increase in financial support provided to others, highlighting the ripple effect of UBI on communities. In terms of employment, the study revealed nuanced outcomes. While there was a slight decrease in overall employment rates and work hours among recipients, the study found that UBI provided individuals with greater flexibility in making employment decisions aligned with their circumstances and goals. One participant explained, “Because of that money and being able to build up my savings, I’m in a position for once to be picky…I don’t have to take a ******* job just because I need income right now.” The research also uncovered significant improvements in personal agency and future planning. UBI recipients were 14% more likely to pursue education or job training and 5% more likely to have a budget compared to the control group. ****** recipients in the third year of the program were 26% more likely to report starting or helping to start a business. Lastly, the study’s analysis revealed increased housing mobility among UBI recipients. Participants were 11% more likely to move neighbourhoods and 23% more likely to actively search for new housing compared to the control group. The study provides valuable insights into the potential impacts of UBI, offering policymakers and researchers a data-driven foundation for future decisions on social ******** programs. This major societal conversation may be necessary if worst case scenarios around AI-induced job displacement come to fruition. (Photo by Freddie Collins on Unsplash) See also: AI could unleash £119 billion in *** productivity [Hidden Content] Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including Intelligent Automation Conference, BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo. Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here. The post OpenResearch reveals potential impacts of universal basic income appeared first on AI News. View the full article

In the high-stakes world of sports ********, success hinges on the ability to predict outcomes with precision. Enter AI, which is revolutionising the industry by providing bettors with sophisticated tools to improve their odds. By leveraging data analytics, machine learning, and real-time processing, AI is turning the traditional approach to sports ******** on its head. This article delves into how AI algorithms are transforming sports ********, providing actual data, statistics, and insights that demonstrate their impact. The rise of AI in sports ******** Sports ******** has always been a game of numbers, but the advent of AI has taken it to another level. AI algorithms can analyse vast amounts of data, recognise patterns, and make predictions with remarkable accuracy. According to a sportbet.one blog, the AI in sports market is projected to reach $3.5 billion by 2026, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 28.32% from 2019 to 2026. This surge is driven by the increasing demand for data-driven decision-making in sports ********. Predictive analytics: The heart of AI ******** At the core of AI’s impact on sports ******** is predictive analytics. Machine learning models, such as regression analysis, neural networks, and decision trees, are employed to analyse historical data and predict future outcomes. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Sports Analytics found that machine learning models could predict NFL game outcomes with up to 75% accuracy, significantly higher than traditional methods. Data collection and processing AI algorithms thrive on data. They collect and process information from various sources, including past performance statistics, player conditions, weather forecasts, and even social media sentiments. According to a survey by the International Journal of Computer Applications, AI models that incorporate diverse data sources can improve prediction accuracy by up to 20%. Pattern recognition and anomaly detection One of AI’s greatest strengths is its ability to recognise patterns and detect anomalies. Machine learning algorithms can identify subtle trends that human analysts might miss. For example, AI can detect a player’s declining performance due to unreported injuries by analysing minute variations in their play style. This capability allows bettors to make more informed decisions and identify value bets that offer higher returns. Real-time analysis for live ******** Live ********, where odds change rapidly during a game, benefits immensely from AI’s real-time analysis capabilities. AI algorithms can process live data streams and adjust predictions on the fly. A report by the Journal of Gambling Studies found that AI-powered real-time ******** systems could increase bettors’ profits by 15-25% compared to traditional methods. This advantage is particularly pronounced in fast-paced sports like basketball and soccer. Sentiment analysis: Gauging public opinion Public sentiment can significantly influence sports outcomes. AI uses natural language processing (NLP) to analyse sentiments from social media, news articles, and other textual data. For instance, during the 2018 FIFA World Cup, an AI model analysed over 10 million tweets to gauge public sentiment and accurately predicted the outcomes of 70% of the matches. Sentiment analysis adds an extra layer of insight, helping bettors understand the psychological factors at play. Insights from the BMR sports ******** forum show that community discussions and sentiments can also significantly influence ******** decisions. Risk management and arbitrage opportunities AI excels in managing risk by analysing the probability of various outcomes and suggesting bets that maximise returns while minimising potential losses. This includes identifying arbitrage opportunities, where discrepancies in odds between different bookmakers can be exploited. According to a study by the ********* Journal of Operational Research, AI-driven arbitrage strategies can yield returns of up to 10% per annum, far surpassing traditional ******** methods. Automated ******** systems AI-powered automated ******** systems, or bots, are becoming increasingly popular. These systems can place bets based on predefined criteria and real-time data analysis, executing trades at high speed to ensure the best odds are taken advantage of. For example, an AI **** developed by the MIT Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory achieved a 25% return on investment (ROI) over a six-month ******* by leveraging real-time data and machine learning. Player and team performance analysis Advanced AI models assess individual player performance and team dynamics, considering factors like injuries, player transfers, and team strategies. A study published in the IEEE Transactions on Knowledge and Data Engineering demonstrated that AI models could predict player performance with an accuracy of 85%, significantly aiding bettors in making informed decisions, particularly in tournaments like the UEFA Youth Championships. Market analysis: Finding value bets AI algorithms analyse ******** markets to identify where the best value bets are. By understanding how odds are moving and why, bettors can identify opportunities where the odds are in their favour. According to a report by Grand View Research, AI-driven market analysis can improve ******** efficiency by up to 30%, making it a valuable tool for serious bettors. Bottom line AI algorithms are transforming sports ******** by providing bettors with powerful tools to improve their odds. From predictive analytics and real-time analysis to sentiment analysis and risk management, AI is enhancing every aspect of the ******** process. As AI technology continues to evolve, its impact on sports ******** is likely to grow, offering even more sophisticated tools for bettors. However, it’s crucial to use these tools responsibly and ethically to ensure a fair and enjoyable ******** experience. The post How AI is transforming sports ******** for better odds appeared first on AI News. View the full article

Three hospital systems across England have begun a live clinical trial of AI technology designed to detect and grade prostate *******. The study – known as ARTICULATE PRO – is being led by the University of Oxford in collaboration with Paige, a pioneer in clinical AI applications for ******* diagnosis. The participating hospitals – North Bristol Trust Southmead Hospital, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire, and Oxford University NHS Foundation Trust – are now incorporating Paige’s AI technology into their standard of care. This multisite trial aims to evaluate the potential of AI to improve patient outcomes against a backdrop of rising prostate ******* cases. Professor Clare Verrill, OUH Cellular Pathology Consultant, Associate Professor and Principal Investigator of ARTICULATE PRO, said “The central focus of ARTICULATE PRO is patients. We are striving towards our goal to safely and effectively ensure they benefit the most from powerful AI technology. “With the multisite live use of The Paige Prostate Suite, we can systematically study benefits to patients in clinical settings.” The Prostate Suite – the AI system being trialled – is designed to assist pathologists in detecting, grading, and measuring tumours in prostate biopsies and tissue samples. Pathologists at the three hospitals are assessing how this AI technology impacts their clinical decision-making, pathology service delivery, and resource utilisation in real-world settings. Dr Jon Oxley, Uropathologist and Bristol lead of ARTICULATE PRO, commented: “I have studied the ******** and progression of prostate ******* in clinical research for over 25 years, it is a significant advancement that Paige’s AI applications have achieved a level of validation and performance that allows safe and effective live clinical use. “Using Paige Prostate Suite alongside our standard of care has the promise to increase efficiency and improve reproducibility of results for patients.” The study is notable for its implementation across hospitals using different digital pathology scanners and information systems, serving distinct patient populations. This diversity allows for a comprehensive assessment of how Paige’s AI technology can best serve patients, histopathologists, and hospital systems in prostate ******* diagnosis. Dr Bidisa Sinha, Uropathologist at University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire, added: “We believe AI can help to improve the accuracy and consistency of grading ******* and assist in detection of small areas of ******* which are easy to miss. “This is world-leading research being carried out at UHCW. We are proud to be a global leader in the field of digital and computational pathology.” The ARTICULATE PRO study is funded by the Accelerated Access Collaborative (AAC) Artificial Intelligence in Health and Care Award, overseen by the Department of Health and Social Care. As prostate ******* rates continue to rise, the integration of AI in diagnosis could potentially lead to earlier detection, more accurate grading, and ultimately improved patient outcomes. The results of this trial could pave the way for wider adoption of AI in ******* diagnosis across the *** and beyond. (Image Credit: Paige) See also: AI could unleash £119 billion in *** productivity [Hidden Content] Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including Intelligent Automation Conference, BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo. Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here. The post *** hospitals begin live trial of prostate *******-detecting AI appeared first on AI News. View the full article

Mistral AI has announced NeMo, a 12B model created in partnership with NVIDIA. This new model boasts an impressive context window of up to 128,000 tokens and claims state-of-the-art performance in reasoning, world knowledge, and coding accuracy for its size category. The collaboration between Mistral AI and NVIDIA has resulted in a model that not only pushes the boundaries of performance but also prioritises ease of use. Mistral NeMo is designed to be a seamless replacement for systems currently using Mistral 7B, thanks to its reliance on standard architecture. In a move to encourage adoption and further research, Mistral AI has made both pre-trained base and instruction-tuned checkpoints available under the Apache 2.0 license. This open-source approach is likely to appeal to researchers and enterprises alike, potentially accelerating the model’s integration into various applications. One of the key features of Mistral NeMo is its quantisation awareness during training, which enables FP8 inference without compromising performance. This capability could prove crucial for organisations looking to deploy large language models efficiently. Mistral AI has provided performance comparisons between the Mistral NeMo base model and two recent open-source pre-trained models: Gemma 2 9B and Llama 3 8B. “The model is designed for global, multilingual applications. It is trained on function calling, has a large context window, and is particularly strong in English, French, *******, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, ********, *********, Korean, Arabic, and Hindi,” explained Mistral AI. “This is a new step toward bringing frontier AI models to everyone’s hands in all languages that form human culture.” Mistral NeMo introduces Tekken, a new tokeniser based on Tiktoken. Trained on over 100 languages, Tekken offers improved compression efficiency for both natural language text and source code compared to the SentencePiece tokeniser used in previous Mistral models. The company reports that Tekken is approximately 30% more efficient at compressing source code and several major languages, with even more significant gains for Korean and Arabic. Mistral AI also claims that Tekken outperforms the Llama 3 tokeniser in text compression for about 85% of all languages, potentially giving Mistral NeMo an edge in multilingual applications. The model’s weights are now available on HuggingFace for both the base and instruct versions. Developers can start experimenting with Mistral NeMo using the mistral-inference tool and adapt it with mistral-finetune. For those using Mistral’s platform, the model is accessible under the name open-mistral-nemo. In a nod to the collaboration with NVIDIA, Mistral NeMo is also packaged as an NVIDIA NIM inference microservice, available through ai.nvidia.com. This integration could streamline deployment for organisations already invested in NVIDIA’s AI ecosystem. The release of Mistral NeMo represents a significant step forward in the democratisation of advanced AI models. By combining high performance, multilingual capabilities, and open-source availability, Mistral AI and NVIDIA are positioning this model as a versatile tool for a wide range of AI applications across various industries and research fields. (Photo by David Clode) See also: Meta joins Apple in withholding AI models from EU users [Hidden Content] Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including Intelligent Automation Conference, BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo. Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here. The post Mistral AI and NVIDIA unveil 12B NeMo model appeared first on AI News. View the full article

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) has raised its revenue forecast for 2024, citing strong demand for chips in AI applications. The world’s largest contract chipmaker anticipates growth slightly above the mid-20% range in US dollar terms, up from its previous estimate. This adjustment comes as TSMC reports better-than-expected profits for the second quarter of 2024. During its earnings call, TSMC, according to Reuters, also addressed speculation about potential ****** ventures, particularly in the ******* States. The company reaffirmed its commitment to its current global expansion strategy, including significant investments in Arizona, Japan, and Europe. This stance on independent growth comes amid ongoing discussions about the worldwide distribution of semiconductor manufacturing capacity. TSMC’s chairman and CEO, C.C. Wei, painted a vivid picture of the current landscape: “AI is so hot; right now everybody, all my customers, want to put AI functionality into their devices.” TSMC’s success is intrinsically linked to the global AI *****, which has helped offset the tapering demand for pandemic-driven electronics. As a critical supplier to tech giants like Apple Inc and Nvidia, TSMC finds itself at the heart of the AI revolution, producing the advanced chips that power everything from smartphones to data centres. It is reflected in the company’s stellar performance based on TSMC’s recent financial results, with net profit for the April-June quarter soaring to T$247.8 billion ($7.60 billion), surpassing market expectations. Despite global economic uncertainties and geopolitical tensions, this robust growth comes, underscoring TSMC’s resilience and strategic positioning in the semiconductor industry. The company’s optimism extends into the near future, with CFO Wendell Huang projecting strong demand for TSMC’s leading-edge process technologies, particularly in smartphones and AI-related applications. This positive outlook is backed by concrete plans. TSMC adjusts its capital expenditure for the year to between $30 billion and $32 billion, signalling its commitment to expanding capacity and maintaining its technological edge. However, TSMC’s journey is not without challenges. The company faces intense pressure to meet the skyrocketing demand for advanced chips, with Wei describing the situation as “very, very tight.” TSMC is working to ramp up capacity to support customer needs through 2026 and beyond. In the face of these challenges, TSMC ******** committed to its global expansion strategy. The company is investing heavily in new facilities, including a $65 billion investment in three plants in Arizona and projects in Japan and potentially in Europe. This global footprint helps TSMC meet worldwide demand and positions the company strategically in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape. Interestingly, TSMC has firmly rejected the idea of a ****** venture in the US despite recent comments from US political figures about Taiwan’s dominance in the chip industry. Wei reaffirmed the company’s commitment to its expansion plans, emphasizing TSMC’s independence and strategic vision. As TSMC continues to push the boundaries of semiconductor technology, its impact extends far beyond its balance sheet. The company’s innovations are driving advancements in AI, powering the next generation of smart devices, and shaping the future of global technology. In conclusion, TSMC’s latest financial results and optimistic forecasts paint a picture of a company at the forefront of the AI revolution. As the world increasingly relies on advanced computing power, TSMC’s role in providing the chips that make it all possible has never been more critical. With its ambitious expansion plans and unwavering focus on innovation, TSMC is not just riding the AI wave – it’s helping to create it. See also: Global semiconductor shortage: How the US plans to close the talent gap [Hidden Content] Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including Intelligent Automation Conference, BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo. Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here. The post TSMC forecasts record growth, rejects US ****** venture amid AI surge appeared first on AI News. View the full article

A Reuters survey released recently ***** bare a nuanced picture of ********* corporate acceptance and social attitudes toward technology. The survey, conducted by Nikkei Research, anonymously polled 506 companies from 3-12 July, with around half responding. It provides a broad view of how corporate Japan is striking a balance between incorporating AI and tightening cybersecurity amid changing social attitudes toward work. The survey revealed a striking divide in AI adoption across ********* businesses. While nearly a quarter of companies have already integrated AI into their operations, a significant portion – over 40% – have yet to make any immediate plans to leverage this cutting-edge technology. Specifically, 24% of respondents reported having introduced AI in their businesses, with an additional 35% planning to do so in the future. However, the remaining 41% indicated no intention to adopt AI, illustrating the varying degrees of technological embrace within corporate Japan. For companies venturing into AI territory, the motivations are clear and multifaceted. When asked about their objectives for AI adoption, 60% of respondents cited the need to address labour shortages—a pressing issue in Japan’s ageing society. Additionally, 53% aimed to reduce labour costs, while 36% saw AI as a means to accelerate research and development efforts. These figures highlight the potential of AI to address some of Japan’s most pressing economic challenges. However, the path to AI integration is not without its obstacles. Companies reported several hurdles in their AI adoption journey. A manager from a transportation company pointed to “anxiety among employees over possible headcount reduction” as a significant concern. Other challenges included a lack of technological expertise within organisations, the need for substantial capital expenditure to implement AI systems, and lingering concerns about the reliability of AI technologies. These factors collectively contribute to the hesitation some companies feel about embracing AI. The survey also shed light on the cybersecurity landscape facing ********* businesses. A concerning 15% of respondents reported experiencing cyberattacks over the past year, with an additional 9% indicating that their business partners had fallen victim to such attacks during the same *******. The impact of these cyber incidents was substantial, with 23% of affected companies or their partners reporting temporary business halts, and 4% suffering information leaks. In response to these digital threats, ********* companies are taking varied approaches to enhance their cybersecurity. Nearly half (47%) of the surveyed firms are outsourcing their defense measures, while 38% have opted to develop in-house expertise. The recent high-profile cyberattack on publisher Kadokawa has further spotlighted this issue, prompting the ********* government to work towards strengthening national cybersecurity measures. Shifting social norms: The surname debate Interestingly, the survey extended beyond technological concerns to gauge corporate attitudes towards social change, specifically regarding Japan’s marriage laws. Half of the surveyed firms expressed support for changing the law that currently requires married couples to share the same surname. This practice, which typically results in women adopting their husband’s name in more than 90% of marriages, has faced growing criticism for potentially infringing on individual identity and burdening women with extensive paperwork. The issue has gained renewed attention following the Keidanren business lobby’s recent appeal to the government to allow married individuals to retain their original surnames. In the survey, 50% of respondents supported such a legislative change, compared to 11% who opposed it. A manager at a machinery firm argued that “the current system is hurting individuals’ – and especially women’s – dignity and freedom,” while a steelmaker official described the proposed change as the “natural demand of the times.” However, not all views were aligned, with a manager at a non-ferrous metal manufacturer expressing concern that allowing separate surnames could “weaken family bonds.” When asked about the potential impact of this legal change on their businesses, 14% of respondents anticipated a boost in employee morale, and 10% expected it to aid in hiring activities. However, a majority (56%) foresaw no significant impact on their operations. This comprehensive survey provides valuable insights into the multifaceted challenges and opportunities facing ********* businesses today. From technological adoption and cybersecurity concerns to evolving social norms, the results paint a picture of a corporate landscape in transition, grappling with the demands of innovation while navigating complex social changes. See also: AI could unleash £119 billion in *** productivity [Hidden Content] Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including Intelligent Automation Conference, BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo. Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here. The post Over 40% of ********* firms lack AI adoption plans appeared first on AI News. View the full article

Meta has announced it will not be launching its upcoming multimodal AI model in the ********* Union due to regulatory concerns. This decision from Meta comes on the heels of Apple’s similar move to exclude the EU from its Apple Intelligence rollout, signalling a growing trend of tech giants hesitating to introduce advanced AI technologies in the region. Meta’s latest multimodal AI model – capable of handling video, audio, images, and text – was set to be released under an open license. However, Meta’s decision will prevent ********* companies from utilising this technology, potentially putting them at a disadvantage in the global AI race. “We will release a multimodal Llama model over the coming months, but not in the EU due to the unpredictable nature of the ********* regulatory environment,” a Meta spokesperson stated. A text-only version of Meta’s Llama 3 model is still expected to launch in the EU. Meta’s announcement comes just days after the EU finalised compliance deadlines for its new AI Act. Tech companies operating in the EU will have until August 2026 to comply with rules surrounding copyright, transparency, and specific AI applications like predictive policing. The withholding of these advanced AI models from the EU market creates a challenging situation for companies outside the region. Those hoping to provide products and services utilising these models will be unable to offer them in one of the world’s largest economic markets. Meta plans to integrate its multimodal AI models into products like the Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses. According to Axios, the company’s EU exclusion will extend to future multimodal AI model releases as well. As more tech giants potentially follow suit, the EU may face challenges in maintaining its position as a leader in technological innovation while balancing concerns about AI’s societal impacts. (Photo by engin akyurt) See also: AI could unleash £119 billion in *** productivity [Hidden Content] Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including Intelligent Automation Conference, BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo. Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here. The post Meta joins Apple in withholding AI models from EU users appeared first on AI News. View the full article

Workday has unveiled figures that suggest AI could unleash a £119 billion productivity boost for *** enterprises. This revelation comes at a crucial time, as the nation grapples with a productivity slump that has persisted for over a decade and a half. The report paints a picture of a country on the brink of a seismic shift in its economic landscape. With current productivity levels languishing 24% below pre-2008 projections, the promise of AI-driven efficiency gains offers a glimmer of hope for businesses and policymakers alike. According to the study, large businesses in the *** could save a staggering 7.9 billion employee hours annually through the strategic implementation of AI technologies. Breaking this down to an individual level, the numbers are equally impressive. Business leaders stand to save 1,117 hours per year – equivalent to 140 working days – while individual employees could reclaim 737 hours, or 92 working days. “Sizeable productivity growth has eluded *** workplaces for over 15 years – but responsible AI has the potential to shift the paradigm,” explained Daniel Pell, VP and country manager for ***&I at Workday. The report’s findings come at a time when political figures are also weighing in on the role of technology in governance. Former Labour Prime Minister Tony Blair recently commented that while Britain faces economic challenges, advances in technologies like AI mean there has “never been a better or more exciting time to be governing.” Despite the optimistic outlook, the path to AI adoption is not without obstacles. The report highlights that 93% of both employees and business leaders harbour concerns related to trust in AI. This underscores the need for responsible AI strategies, comprehensive education, and transparent communication initiatives. Other barriers to AI adoption include fears over safety, privacy, and bias (38%), the need for more time to educate teams (34%), and lack of investment (32%). Additionally, the report identified unengaged employees (41%), lack of incentives (41%), and inadequate technology (35%) as key factors hampering organisational productivity. The potential economic impact of AI is staggering. Based on the study’s findings, an additional 2.9 hours of work per day translates to £11,058 a year of added value for each average employee. With over 10 million employees in large businesses across the ***, the cumulative effect could reach £119 billion worth of productive work annually. However, the report also reveals a productivity paradox in the current workplace. In an 8-hour workday, employees and business leaders are genuinely productive for only 5.8 and 5.9 hours respectively—leaving over a quarter of the day unproductive. The promise of AI extends beyond mere time savings. By taking on mundane and repetitive tasks, AI has the potential to empower workers to focus on more meaningful and impactful work. This shift could address one of the biggest barriers to productivity identified in the report: unengaged employees. As *** businesses stand at the crossroads of this AI revolution, the report serves as both a wake-up call and a roadmap. It suggests a two-pronged approach to AI deployment: a concrete analysis of potential efficiencies coupled with a transparent strategy to tackle adoption barriers. Realising the full potential of AI in the *** economy will require a concerted effort from businesses, policymakers, and employees alike. The successful integration of AI technologies could well determine the ***’s economic trajectory for years to come. A full copy of Workday’s report can be found here (registration required) (Photo by Belinda Fewings) See also: Tech executives confident in AI skills, but adoption barriers persist [Hidden Content] Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including Intelligent Automation Conference, BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo. Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here. The post AI could unleash £119 billion in *** productivity appeared first on AI News. View the full article

Since the 1990s, the most ********* gamers have traditionally opted for PCs and laptops. Not only did this allow them to ***** deeper into their favourite games, even creating things like mods, but PC gaming also offered the ability to tinker with hardware. Many PC gamers enjoy improving their hardware by adding new parts. They also enjoy playing a diverse range of games. Some of the world’s most competitive eSports focus on PC hits, from FPSs like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive to MOBAs like Dota 2. Though console gamers are also present, most gamers associate these titles with PCs. Beyond the scope of hyper-visible eSports hits, PC gamers also have access to other titles. Casino games, for example, are often played via browser. Slots are a popular choice, offering dozens of formats and hundreds of themes for them to choose from. Straight from a laptop or PC, players can spin the reel. The same is true for DCCGs. These types of card games have taken off over the last decade, including new hits like Hearthstone and Marvel Snap. Though traditionally played in person, PCs are now the preferred format for many DCCG competitors. One of the most unique developments in the world of PC gaming is the rise of AI-driven laptops and PCs. These powerful devices are designed to handle even more complex processing challenges. Both their hardware and software are advanced, and designed to handle machine-learning tasks. If you’ve been considering an AI-driven laptop to improve your gaming experience, here are some of the products you should keep an eye on. The metrics The best AI-driven laptops and PCs have a performance-focused processor. Some of the best for AI-driven tasks are Intel Core i7 and i9—but you’ll have other options, too. Along with the processor, focus on the device’s graphics card—the higher, the better. But keep a look out for storage, as the same is true for RAM. Better storage relates to faster loading times and general responsiveness—which are hugely important for gamers who need to avoid even a millisecond of lag. The NVMe SSDs are considered the best in the industry in 2024. Alienware Aurora R14 In terms of actual products, the Alienware Aurora R14 is one of the best choices for AI-driven gaming. That’s because it has all of the most advanced hardware features, including a graphics card from NVIDIA GeForce, an Intel Core i9 processor, and 32GB of RAM. That’s fast, accurate, and advanced gaming at its best. [Hidden Content] MSI Trident X This PC is a little bit different in that it focuses on being more compact. Oftentimes, the more advanced the PC, the bulkier the hardware becomes. That’s not the case with the MSI Trident X. Despite its compact size, it has the Intel Core i9 processor, NVIDIA GeForce Graphics Card, and 32GB of storage—all the same as the Alienware Aurora, just in a slightly more manageable package. HP Omen Obelisk With the HP Omen Obelisk, the focus is on customisation. The AI-driven PC includes all the same features as the other two products—even down to the brands used. However, it also offers tool-free access to the interior, which makes both maintenance and upgrading a breeze. Unsurprisingly, it also has a glass side window that makes observing the hardware enjoyable. HP Spectre x360 14 If you need to get more out of your AI-driven PC than gaming sessions, then the HP Spectre is a great option. (Although it’s a laptop—not a PC.) Its robust features will take your gaming sessions to the next level while also handling other types of demanding tasks, from graphic design to video editing. The sheer range of options makes this one popular for anyone who also needs a professional device. ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 This option is slightly more affordable than others on the list—though you’ll notice the more limited features. Specifically, it has less storage than the other AI-driven PCs, along with a slightly less powerful processor. But it still packs a huge punch into its space-saving laptop hardware, which makes it a solid option for most gamers. The post Best AI-driven laptops and PCs appeared first on AI News. View the full article

Deutsche Telekom, one of Europe’s leading telecoms companies, has unveiled a new AI-powered software-as-a-service solution called “Law Monitor” aimed at supporting corporate legal departments in quickly identifying changes to national and international laws. In an era of increasingly complex regulatory environments, companies across all industries are struggling to keep up with the constant stream of legal updates. The Law Monitor seeks to address this challenge by automating the time-consuming process of monitoring legislative changes. Dr Ferri Abolhassan, CEO of T-Systems and member of the Board of Management of Deutsche Telekom AG, said: “AI has come to stay. At T-Systems, we see ourselves as consultants for our customers and need to make AI tangible. The Law Monitor is a good example of this.” The AI-based model scans legal texts from the ******* Federal Law Gazette, using advanced algorithms to recognise and structure information from text, images, and tables. This processed data is then presented to legal department employees via an intuitive dashboard, allowing them to quickly identify relevant changes. Abolhassan highlighted a recent example from the automotive industry to illustrate the tool’s potential impact: “Since 7 July, for example, binding regulations have applied throughout the EU for the integration of specific assistance systems, such as emergency braking and lane departure warning systems in new cars. Law Monitor helps car manufacturers to make these regulations transparent in real time in order to adapt production at an early stage.” The need for such a tool is clear. Companies are facing an unprecedented density of regulations both in Germany and worldwide. For instance, the ********* packaging industry recently had to adapt to new requirements mandating that disposable plastic bottles be produced with attached lids to reduce plastic waste. While the Law Monitor currently focuses on legislative changes in Germany, Deutsche Telekom plans to expand its coverage to 19 additional countries – including specific states in the US – in the coming months. This expansion will allow the tool to display legal changes from different countries in a single interface, setting it apart from existing competing products. The solution is designed to be applicable across various industries and even the public sector. Deutsche Telekom reports that one customer from the automotive industry is already using the Law Monitor, with others from both the automotive and packaging industries expressing strong interest. By automating the process of monitoring legal changes, the Law Monitor not only saves time but also allows legal professionals to focus on more value-added tasks such as analysing the content and assessing the context of these changes. Deutsche Telekom’s initiative demonstrates how AI can be leveraged to address real-world challenges in the legal and compliance space, potentially revolutionising how companies stay informed about and adapt to legislative changes. (Photo by Conny Schneider) See also: Tech executives confident in AI skills, but adoption barriers persist Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including Intelligent Automation Conference, BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo. Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here. The post Deutsche Telekom turns to AI to support legal departments appeared first on AI News. View the full article

The US is ******** big on the future of semiconductor technology, launching a $1.6 billion competition to revolutionise chip packaging and challenge Asia’s longstanding dominance in the field. On July 9, 2024, the US Department of Commerce unveiled its ambitious plan to turbocharge domestic advanced packaging capabilities, a critical yet often overlooked aspect of semiconductor manufacturing. This move, part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s CHIPS for America program, comes as the US seeks to revitalise its semiconductor industry and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers. Advanced packaging, a crucial step in semiconductor production, has long been dominated by ****** countries like Taiwan and South Korea. By investing heavily in this area, the US aims to reshape the global semiconductor landscape and position itself at the forefront of next-generation chip technology, marking a significant shift in the industry’s balance of power. US Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo emphasised the importance of this move, stating, “President Biden was clear that we need to build a vibrant domestic semiconductor ecosystem here in the US, and advanced packaging is a huge part of that. Thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to investing in America, the US will have multiple advanced packaging options across the country and push the envelope in new packaging technologies.” The competition will focus on five key R&D areas: equipment and process integration, power delivery and thermal management, connector technology, chiplets ecosystem, and co-design/electronic design automation. The Department of Commerce anticipates making several awards of approximately $150 million each in federal funding per research area, leveraging additional investments from industry and academia. This strategic investment comes at a crucial time, as emerging AI applications are pushing the boundaries of current technologies. Advanced packaging allows for improvements in system performance, reduced physical footprint, lower power consumption, and decreased costs – all critical factors in maintaining technological leadership. The Biden-Harris Administration’s push to revitalise ********* semiconductor manufacturing comes as the global chip shortage has highlighted the risks of overreliance on foreign suppliers. Asia, particularly Taiwan, currently dominates the advanced packaging market. According to a 2021 report by the Semiconductor Industry Association, the US accounts for only 3% of global packaging, testing, and assembly capacity, while Taiwan holds a 54% share, followed by China at 16%. Under Secretary of Commerce for Standards and Technology and National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Director Laurie E. Locascio outlined an ambitious vision for the program: “Within a decade, through R&D funded by CHIPS for America, we will create a domestic packaging industry where advanced node chips manufactured in the US and abroad can be packaged within the States and where innovative designs and architectures are enabled through leading-edge packaging capabilities.” The announcement builds on previous efforts by the CHIPS for America program. In February 2024, the program released its first funding opportunity for the National Advanced Packaging Manufacturing Program (NAPMP), focusing on advanced packaging substrates and substrate materials. That initiative garnered significant interest, with over 100 concept papers submitted from 28 states. On May 22, 2024, eight teams were selected to submit complete applications for funding of up to $100 million each over five years. According to Laurie, the goal is to create multiple high-volume packaging facilities by the decade’s end and reduce reliance on ****** supply lines that pose a security risk that the US “just can’t accept.” In short, the government is prioritising ensuring America’s leadership in all elements of semiconductor manufacturing, “of which advanced packaging is one of the most exciting and critical areas,” White House spokeswoman Robyn Patterson said. The latest competition is expected to attract significant interest from the US semiconductor ecosystem and shift that balance. It promises substantial federal funding and the opportunity to shape the future of ********* chip manufacturing. As the global demand for advanced semiconductors continues to grow, driven by AI, 5G, and other emerging technologies, the stakes for technological leadership have never been higher. As the US embarks on this ambitious endeavour, the world will see if this $1.6 billion bet can challenge Asia’s stronghold on advanced chip packaging and restore America’s position at the forefront of semiconductor innovation. (Photo by Braden Collum) See also: Global semiconductor shortage: How the US plans to close the talent gap Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including Intelligent Automation Conference, BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo. Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here. The post US launches $1.6B bid to outpace Asia in packaging tech appeared first on AI News. View the full article

SoftBank has announced its acquisition of Graphcore, a leading British AI chipmaker. The deal will see Graphcore becoming a wholly-owned subsidiary of SoftBank. This acquisition, reportedly valued at about $600 million, is not SoftBank’s first foray into the *** tech scene. In 2016, SoftBank controversially acquired British chip designer Arm in a much larger deal. However, the Graphcore purchase comes at a lower valuation than the total funding the company is said to have raised, which was around $700 million. Graphcore will continue to operate under its own name and maintain its headquarters in Bristol, ***. The company also retains its offices in Cambridge, London, Gdansk, and Hsinchu, signalling SoftBank’s commitment to preserving Graphcore’s established presence and operations. Nigel Toon, co-founder and CEO of Graphcore, said: “This is a tremendous endorsement of our team and their ability to build truly transformative AI technologies at scale, as well as a great outcome for our company.” Toon went on to emphasise the ongoing demand for AI compute and the work that ******** to be done in improving efficiency, resilience, and computational power to fully realise AI’s potential. Graphcore’s key offering is a range of “Intelligence Processing Units” – accelerators designed specifically for AI workloads – along with a software stack that allows developers to utilise its hardware effectively. The company’s technology has often impressed. In 2020, a Graphcore device outperformed an Nvidia A100 GPU, and in another instance, its hardware halved the time required to handle a GPU-based ***** discovery workload. Despite these technological successes, Graphcore has struggled to generate significant revenue and achieve profitability. In 2022, the company reported revenue of just $2.7 million – a 46 percent year-on-year decrease – while operating expenses reached $206.8 million. Vikas J. Parekh, Managing Partner at SoftBank Investment Advisers, commented: “Society is embracing the opportunities offered by foundation models, generative AI applications, and new approaches to scientific discovery. “Next generation semiconductors and compute systems are essential in the AGI journey, we’re pleased to collaborate with Graphcore in this mission.” The mention of AGI (Artificial General Intelligence) in Parekh’s statement suggests that SoftBank sees Graphcore’s technology as a key component in the pursuit of more advanced AI systems that can match or exceed human-level intelligence across a wide range of tasks. Graphcore has built a reputation as a leading employer in the ***’s high-tech economy, and the company has committed to continuing its investment in creating high-skilled jobs across various disciplines. The acquisition of Graphcore by SoftBank is likely to provide the AI chipmaker with significant resources and opportunities for expansion. It also reflects the increasing competition in the AI chip market, where companies like NVIDIA, Intel, and AMD have been vying for dominance. As AI continues to permeate various sectors of the economy and society, the demand for specialised AI hardware is expected to grow. Graphcore’s integration into SoftBank’s portfolio positions both companies to capitalise on this trend. See also: PC market finds new momentum amid AI interest Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including Intelligent Automation Conference, BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo. Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here. The post SoftBank acquires British AI chipmaker Graphcore appeared first on AI News. View the full article

Samsung’s latest flagship smartphones and wearables have been made lighter and slimmer, while incorporating enhanced AI features to appeal to high-end consumers. Samsung, which pioneered the foldable smartphone segment in 2019, faces increasing competition in this niche market. Data from Canalys shows that Samsung’s share of foldable phone shipments dropped from 81% in 2022 to 63% in 2023, highlighting the importance of this latest launch. Responding to market pressures, Samsung has made significant improvements to its foldable lineup: The Galaxy Z Fold 6, featuring a wide screen, is now the lightest and slimmest version in its series, aimed at attracting new customers to the form factor. The clamshell Galaxy Z Flip 6 boasts longer battery life, a higher resolution camera, and a new vapour chamber for improved cooling. These enhancements address key issues identified through customer feedback. Despite rising material costs and after maintaining stable prices for three years, Samsung has implemented a modest price increase. The Z Flip 6 is priced at $1,099.99, while the Z Fold 6 starts at $1,899.99, representing a $100 increase over last year’s models. Samsung has introduced several new AI-powered features, including: A “listening mode” that provides simultaneous voice interpretation when paired with Galaxy Buds earphones. Collaboration with Google to develop new AI search functions, such as displaying step-by-step solutions to math problems when circled on the screen. The company has also significantly enhanced its Galaxy Watch products: A new 3-nanometer chip triples application booting and processing efficiencies compared to last year’s model. The watch has received US FDA approval as a monitoring device for sleep apnea. New features include measurement of functional threshold power (FTP) for cycling enthusiasts and advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) related to diabetes. Samsung’s commitment to health monitoring is further exemplified by the introduction of the Galaxy Ring. Priced at $399.99, this smart ring comes in gold, silver, and ******, featuring a titanium frame with 10ATM water resistance and an IP68 rating. At 7mm wide and 2.6mm thick, it’s designed to be slim and lightweight, weighing between 2.3 and 3g depending on the size. The Galaxy Ring primarily functions as a health tracker, equipped with an accelerometer, optical heart rate sensor, and skin temperature sensor. It can monitor sleep, heart rate, and activity, while introducing new Galaxy AI-powered metrics such as Energy Score and Wellness Tips. The ring offers 6-7 days of battery life and comes with a unique, transparent charging case that holds 1.5 times the charge. Industry analyst Jack Leathem from Canalys emphasises the importance of AI-powered health and fitness features in wearables, noting that they are “core to attracting brand switchers in the premium segment” and crucial for differentiating Samsung from other smartwatch vendors. The Galaxy Ring is only compatible with Android phones running the Samsung Health app, with some features exclusive to Galaxy phones. A standout feature for Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6 users (soon to be available on the S24) is the ability to control the phone’s camera or dismiss alarms using a double pinch gesture on the ring. While the Galaxy Ring shows promise in hardware design and ecosystem integration, its success will ultimately depend on tracking accuracy and consistent battery performance. Samsung’s expansion into the smart ring market, coupled with its enhancements to foldable phones and smartwatches, demonstrates the company’s commitment to innovating across the wearable and smartphone sectors. The new lineup of products – including the foldable phones, watches, and ring – will be available starting July 24 in South Korea, North America, and Europe, marking a significant step in Samsung’s strategy to innovate and compete in the high-end smartphone and wearable markets. (Image Credit: Samsung) See also: EU probes Microsoft-OpenAI and Google-Samsung AI deals Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including Intelligent Automation Conference, BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo. Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here. The post Samsung enhances AI features with latest foldables and wearables appeared first on AI News. View the full article

While executives express high confidence in their organisations’ AI capabilities, they simultaneously acknowledge significant barriers to further adoption. Research from Zartis found that 85% of *** tech executives rate their existing workforce’s combined AI knowledge and expertise as ‘skilled’, with over half (51%) considering it ‘highly skilled’. This confidence, however, is juxtaposed against concerns about obstacles preventing wider AI implementation. AI adoption is nearly universal among *** tech companies, with 94% of executives reporting some form of AI use in their organisations. The remaining 6% are still in the exploration or research phase. Notably, not a single respondent claimed to be completely avoiding AI. Industry pressure appears to be a significant factor driving AI adoption, with 40% of executives feeling compelled to prioritise AI investment due to widespread momentum around the technology. Despite the enthusiasm, several barriers hinder full AI adoption. Budget restrictions (41%), shortage of AI talent (38%), and technical complexity (35%) were cited as primary obstacles. Executives also expressed concerns about integration challenges (44%), cost and ROI uncertainty (42%), and data privacy and IP security (38%). Michal Szymczak, Head of AI Strategy at Zartis, commented on this apparent contradiction: “AI adoption isn’t some ‘on or off’ switch. To a lot of businesses, it involves a significant financial investment, and there are complex questions to grapple with surrounding data privacy, or integration with existing technology stacks. That makes executives’ confidence in their company’s AI skill set rather ironic. They puff their chests out, while simultaneously pointing to all the obstacles that could stop them in their tracks.” The financial aspect of AI adoption presents a mixed picture. While 42% of executives cited ROI uncertainty as a primary concern, 53% view cost savings through improved efficiency as one of the most significant long-term benefits of adopting AI. Investment in AI capabilities is substantial, with 93% of companies spending at least £100,000 in 2024, and 44% allocating £500,000 or more. Software development emerges as the most popular area for AI investment (59%), followed by quality assurance (44%) and DevOps and automation (44%). Angel Benito, CTO at Zartis, offered insight into the investment trends: “There is significant pressure on organisations to keep up with AI development or risk being left behind. This explains why many are investing despite the uncertainty about ROI. They see the potential for long-term cost savings but need a well-curated plan to implement the changes. It’s crucial to understand that it’s not just about the tools; it’s about the people.” As companies navigate the AI landscape, their focus varies. The top three cited utilities of AI for software development are AI-powered copilot tools for coding (53%), improved continuous integration and deployment (52%), and enhanced team communication and collaboration (46%). This study follows recent Zartis research indicating that over three-quarters of *** tech executives favour increased government oversight of AI, with many anticipating benefits from regulations such as the EU AI Act. As the AI revolution continues to unfold, it’s clear that *** tech companies are eager to embrace the technology, even as they grapple with its complexities and challenges. (Photo by Nick Fewings) See also: Microsoft and Apple back away from OpenAI board Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including Intelligent Automation Conference, BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo. Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here. The post Tech executives confident in AI skills, but adoption barriers persist appeared first on AI News. View the full article

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Aԁvаnсeԁ plаyer anаlytiсs As AI teсhnology сontinues to evolve, the аbility to аnаlyse рlаyer ԁаtа will beсome even more soрhistiсаteԁ. This аԁvаnсement will enаble ԁeveloрers to сreаte more рreсise аnԁ рersonаliseԁ gаming exрerienсes, further blurring the line between the virtuаl аnԁ reаl worlԁs. Conclusion AI is unԁoubteԁly revolutionising gаme ԁesign аnԁ рlаyer exрerienсes. From intelligent NPCs to рersonаliseԁ gаming аnԁ enhаnсeԁ online experiences, the imрасt of AI is рrofounԁ аnԁ fаr-reасhing. In the future, we саn exрeсt even more innovаtive аnԁ immersive gаming exрerienсes. The post How AI is revolutionising game design and player experiences appeared first on AI News. View the full article

The global PC market is showing solid signs of recovery, with Apple leading the charge among significant manufacturers. According to the latest data from International Data Corporation (IDC), the traditional PC market experienced a 3% year-over-year (YoY) growth in the second quarter of 2024, marking its second consecutive quarter of expansion after a prolonged decline. The report reveals that worldwide PC shipments reached 64.9 million units in Q2 2024, with Apple as the top performer among major brands. The Cupertino-based tech giant saw an impressive 20.8% increase in Mac shipments compared to last year, significantly outpacing its competitors and strengthening its position in the global PC market. This resurgence comes as a welcome development for an industry grappling with challenges in recent years. The PC market had previously experienced seven consecutive quarters of decline, making this turnaround particularly noteworthy. While the overall market benefited from favourable comparisons to 2023, the growth was uneven across all regions. Notably, weak results in China continued to hold back the market’s full potential. Excluding China, the global PC market showed even more robust growth, with shipments increasing by more than 5% YoY. This disparity highlights the uneven nature of the recovery and the ongoing challenges faced in specific key markets. Apple’s exceptional performance can be attributed to several factors, including the growing popularity of its M-series chips, which have garnered praise for their power efficiency and performance. The company’s focus on integrating its hardware and software ecosystems has also likely increased consumer interest in Mac products. While Apple led the pack in terms of growth rate, other major manufacturers also saw positive trends. Lenovo maintained its position as the market leader with a 3.7% shipment increase, capturing 22.7% of the market share. HP Inc. followed closely with a a 21.1% market share and a 1.8% shipment growth. Acer Group also performed well, with a 13.7% increase in shipments. Interestingly, Dell Technologies was the only top-five vendor to experience a decline, with a 2.4% decrease in shipments compared to Q2 2023. However, the company still maintained a significant 15.5% market share. The stage is set for the AI PC revolution Industry analysts attribute the overall market recovery to several factors, including a commercial refresh cycle and increasing interest in AI-capable PCs. Ryan Reith, group vice president with IDC’s Worldwide Device Trackers, noted that while the PC market faces challenges due to maturity and economic headwinds, the combination of two consecutive quarters of growth, market hype around AI PCs, and an ongoing commercial refresh cycle has injected new life into the mature market. The buzz surrounding AI-enhanced PCs is expected to drive further growth in the coming months, with significant players in the industry laying out their initial strategies for AI integration. While the commercial market is seen as having the most significant short-term upside for AI in the PC industry, there is growing anticipation for developments in the consumer segment. IDC also reckons all eyes are on Apple to potentially drive the consumer AI narrative later this year with anticipated product launches. However, “it shouldn’t be overlooked that Qualcomm, Intel, and AMD are all likely to make noise around both consumer and commercial AI PCs,” the report reads. Beyond Apple and AI: What’s next in the global PC market? Beyond the AI factor, the market has also benefited from promotional activities from consumer-oriented brands and channels, Jitesh Ubrani, research manager with IDC’s Worldwide Mobile Device Trackers, shared. He believes the industry has moved past the rock-bottom pricing brought about by excess inventory last year, leading to growth in average selling prices due to richer configurations and reduced discounting. As the PC market continues recovering, it faces opportunities and challenges. The ongoing commercial refresh cycle and the emerging AI PC segment present significant growth potential. However, regional disparities, particularly the weakness in the ******** market, remain a concern for overall market performance. The industry will be closely watching how manufacturers capitalize on the AI trend and whether they can sustain the current growth momentum. Apple’s strong performance sets a high bar for competitors and may prompt increased innovation and marketing efforts. (Photo by Josip Margeta) See also: AI revolution in US education: How ******** apps are leading the way Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including Intelligent Automation Conference, BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo. Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here. The post PC market finds new momentum amid AI interest appeared first on AI News. View the full article

Microsoft and Apple have decided against taking up board seats at OpenAI. The decision comes as regulatory bodies intensify their scrutiny of big tech’s involvement in AI development and deployment. According to a Bloomberg report on July 10, citing an anonymous source familiar with the matter, Microsoft has officially communicated its withdrawal from the OpenAI board. This move comes approximately a year after the Redmond-based company made a substantial $13 billion investment in OpenAI in April 2023. In a memo addressed to OpenAI, Microsoft stated: “Over the past eight months we have witnessed significant progress from the newly formed board and are confident in the company’s direction.” The tech giant added, “We no longer believe our limited role as an observer is necessary.” Contrary to recent reports suggesting that Apple would secure an observer role on OpenAI’s board as part of a landmark agreement announced in June, it appears that OpenAI will now have no board observers following Microsoft’s departure. Responding to these developments, OpenAI expressed gratitude towards Microsoft, stating, “We’re grateful to Microsoft for voicing confidence in the board and the direction of the company, and we look forward to continuing our successful partnership.” This retreat from board involvement by major tech players occurs against a backdrop of mounting regulatory pressure. Concerns about the potential impact of big tech on AI development and industry dominance have prompted increased scrutiny from regulatory bodies worldwide. In June, ********* Union regulators announced that OpenAI could face an EU antitrust investigation over its partnership with Microsoft. EU competition chief Margrethe Vestager also revealed plans for local regulators to seek additional third-party views and survey firms such as Microsoft, Google, Meta, and ByteDance’s TikTok regarding their AI partnerships. The decision by Microsoft and Apple to step back from board positions at OpenAI could be interpreted as a strategic move to mitigate potential regulatory challenges. By maintaining a more arm’s length relationship with the AI firm, these tech giants may be attempting to avoid accusations of undue influence or control over AI development. Alex Haffner, a competition partner at Fladgate, said: As AI continues to play an increasingly critical role in technological advancement and societal change, the balance between innovation, competition, and regulation ******** a complex challenge for both industry players and policymakers. The coming months will likely see continued scrutiny of AI partnerships and investments, as regulators worldwide grapple with the task of ensuring fair competition and responsible AI development. (Photo by Andrew Neel) See also: Nvidia: World’s most valuable company under French antitrust ***** Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including Intelligent Automation Conference, BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo. Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here. The post Microsoft and Apple back away from OpenAI board appeared first on AI News. View the full article

SenseTime has unveiled SenseNova 5.5, an enhanced version of its LLM that includes SenseNova 5o—touted as China’s first real-time multimodal model. SenseNova 5o represents a leap forward in AI interaction, providing capabilities on par with GPT-4o’s streaming interaction features. This advancement allows users to engage with the model in a manner akin to conversing with a real person, making it particularly suitable for real-time conversation and speech recognition applications. According to SenseTime, its latest model outperforms rivals across several benchmarks: Dr. Xu Li, Chairman of the Board and CEO of SenseTime, commented: “This is a critical year for large models as they evolve from unimodal to multimodal. In line with users’ needs, SenseTime is also focused on boosting interactivity. “With applications driving the development of models and their capabilities, coupled with technological advancements in multimodal streaming interactions, we will witness unprecedented transformations in human-AI interactions.” The upgraded SenseNova 5.5 boasts a 30% improvement in overall performance compared to its predecessor, SenseNova 5.0, which was released just two months earlier. Notable enhancements include improved mathematical reasoning, English proficiency, and command-following abilities. In a move to democratise access to advanced AI capabilities, SenseTime has introduced a cost-effective edge-side large model. This development reduces the cost per device to as low as RMB 9.90 ($1.36) per year, potentially accelerating widespread adoption across various IoT devices. The company has also launched “Project $0 Go,” a free onboarding package for enterprise users migrating from the OpenAI platform. This initiative includes a 50 million tokens package and API migration consulting services, aimed at lowering entry barriers for businesses looking to leverage SenseNova’s capabilities. SenseTime’s commitment to edge-side AI is evident in the release of SenseChat Lite-5.5, which features a 40% reduction in inference time compared to its predecessor, now at just 0.19 seconds. The inference speed has also increased by 15%, reaching 90.2 words per second. Expanding its suite of AI applications, SenseTime introduced Vimi, a controllable AI avatar video generator. This tool can create short video clips with precise control over facial expressions and upper body movements from a single photo, opening up new possibilities in entertainment and interactive applications. The company has also upgraded its SenseTime Raccoon Series, a set of AI-native productivity tools. The Code Raccoon now boasts a five-fold improvement in response speed and a 10% increase in coding precision, while the Office Raccoon has expanded to include a consumer-facing webpage and a WeChat mini-app version. SenseTime’s large model technology is already making waves across various industries. In the financial sector, it’s improving efficiency in compliance, marketing, and investment research. In agriculture, it’s helping to reduce the use of materials by 20% while increasing crop yields by 15%. The cultural tourism industry is seeing significant boosts in travel planning and booking efficiency. With over 3,000 government and corporate customers already using SenseNova across technology, healthcare, finance, and programming sectors, SenseTime is cementing its position as a key AI player. (Image Credit: SenseTime) See also: AI revolution in US education: How ******** apps are leading the way Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including Intelligent Automation Conference, BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo. Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here. The post SenseTime SenseNova 5.5: China’s first real-time multimodal AI model appeared first on AI News. View the full article

The success of ******** AI education applications like Question.AI and Gauth in the US market comes at a time of fierce competition within China, where over 200 large language models—critical for generative AI services like ChatGPT—have been developed. As of March, more than half of these received approval from ******** authorities for public release. Faced with a saturated domestic market, more ******** app developers are now setting their sights on Western markets, including the US. The South China Morning Post reported that ******** AI apps have swiftly gained traction in the US, particularly in the education sector. Applications like Question.AI, owned by Beijing-based educational technology startup Zuoyebang and ByteDance’s Gauth, are revolutionising how ********* students tackle their homework by providing instant solutions and explanations through advanced AI algorithms. For context, Question.AI and Gauth are popular educational apps that use generative AI to help US students in various subjects. Users can photograph homework problems to receive solutions with step-by-step explanations. Question.AI launched in mid-2023, while Gauth (originally Gauthmath) started in 2020 as a math solver before expanding. Both offer free essential use with paid additional features. As of recent rankings, Gauth is the second most popular educational app globally, with Question.AI at seventh. This convenience has resonated with students and parents, offering a seamless blend of technology and education that complements the increasingly digital learning environment. Initially designed for China’s vast and competitive market, these apps began bringing cutting-edge AI capabilities to ********* classrooms. After all, with its high digital adoption rates and openness to educational innovation, the US market presents a lucrative opportunity for ******** developers looking to expand their user base beyond domestic borders. According to mobile app intelligence service AppMagic, Question.AI and Gauth, generative AI-driven homework helpers, were ranked among the top three free educational apps in the US on Apple’s iOS store and Google Play from February to May. AI in education: Domestic pressure driving global expansion In China, the development of large language models has been prolific. With over 200 such models created, the competition among AI developers is intense. This high-stakes environment has driven many companies to seek growth opportunities abroad. The approval of these models for public release by ******** authorities signifies the maturity and readiness of these technologies for broader application, encouraging developers to explore international markets. This push for global expansion is not just about finding new revenue streams but also about gaining a competitive edge and establishing a global presence. For ******** AI companies, breaking into Western markets, particularly the US, symbolises commercial success and technological leadership on a global scale. The adoption of ******** AI apps in the US education sector also illustrates some strategic advantages these tools possess. The sophisticated AI technology in Question.AI and Gauth delivers individual-learnt experiences. In the US, educators appreciate such granularity as they are committed to personalised instruction for students with various learning styles. Moreover, the flexibility and accessibility of these AI tools align well with the digital transformation sweeping through ********* education. Given that the pandemic has expedited online learning, AI-powered educational apps stand to bridge this gap in traditional teaching methodologies by providing timely help and improving their delivery methods. Navigating challenges: Data privacy and cultural integration Even with their technological prowess, ******** AI apps will be met by data privacy and security concerns when entering US markets. There will be increased oversight on how these apps manage user data, especially in light of the geopolitical tensions between the US and China. Ensuring compliance with stringent US data privacy regulations is crucial for gaining user trust and widespread acceptance. Additionally, cultural integration poses another hurdle. ******** educational philosophies often emphasise rote learning and discipline, which may contrast with ********* education’s focus on creativity and critical thinking. Successfully blending these approaches to create a holistic learning experience will be essential to the sustained success of these apps in the US. Ultimately, the success of ******** AI apps like Question.AI and Gauth in the US clearly demonstrates the advanced technological capabilities that have been developed through intense domestic competition. As these companies continue to navigate the complexities of entering the Western market, their impact on the future of education is expected to expand. See also: Tech war escalates: OpenAI shuts door on China Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including Intelligent Automation Conference, BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo. Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here. The post AI revolution in US education: How ******** apps are leading the way appeared first on AI News. View the full article

Have you heard about Language Processing Units (LPUs) yet? If you haven’t, prepare to be wowed! LPUs are specialised processors engineered specifically for language-related tasks. They differ from other processors that handle multiple tasks simultaneously. The LPU combines the best of the Central Processing Unit (CPU) – great at sequential tasks, and the Graphic Processing Unit (GPU) – great at concurrent tasks. Groq is the creator of the world’s first LPU, and in terms of processing, they are the new sheriff in town: 10x faster, 90% less latency, and minimal energy than traditional Graphics Processing Units (GPUs). So, what does this mean for AI in the future? Imagine you’re at a bustling coffee shop trying to place an order. The barista needs to hear your order, understand it amidst the noise, and get it right – quickly and efficiently. This is not unlike the daily challenges faced in customer service, where clarity and speed are paramount. Enter Language Processing Units or LPUs, the latest buzz in tech circles, especially in customer service. These specialised processors are designed to handle these exact challenges in AI-driven interactions. Before LPUs entered the scene, CPUs and GPUs did the heavy lifting. Let’s break it down: The Barista (CPU) The barista is like a CPU (Central Processing Unit). This person is very skilled and can handle various tasks, from making coffee to taking orders and cleaning up. However, because the barista does everything, each task takes a bit of time, and they can only do one thing at a time. If there’s a rush of customers, the barista might get overwhelmed and slow down. The Team of Baristas (GPU) Now, imagine you have a team of baristas (GPU – Graphics Processing Unit). Each barista specialises in a specific task. One makes espresso, another steams milk, and another adds flavourings. This team can handle many customers simultaneously, especially if everyone wants the same type of coffee, because they can work in parallel. However, if customers start asking for highly customised orders, the team might not be as efficient since their specialisation is more suited to repetitive tasks. Super Barista (LPU) Finally, picture a super-efficient barista (LPU – Language Processing Unit). This ****** is specifically designed to handle complex and varied coffee orders swiftly. It can understand detailed instructions quickly and adapt to each customer’s unique preferences with incredible speed and accuracy. Unlike the single barista or the team of baristas, the ****** barista excels at processing these intricate orders without slowing down, no matter how many customers are lined up or how complex the orders are. LPUs bring this level of personalisation and efficiency to customer service AI, making every interaction smoother and more intuitive. Let’s explore how these new processors are reshaping the landscape of AI communications. Taking AI Interactions to The Next Level in Contact Centres As far as contact centre operations go, the speed and accuracy of AI applications are crucial to success. LPUs transform voice AI, most notably enriching real-time speech-to-text and text-to-speech conversions. This improvement is key for developing more natural and efficient customer service interactions, where delays or misunderstandings can negatively impact customer satisfaction. One of the standout benefits of LPUs is their ability to tackle the latency challenge. In customer service, where every second counts, reducing latency improves the customer experience and boosts the service’s efficiency. LPUs ensure that the dialogue between the customer and the AI is as smooth and seamless as if it were between two humans, with minimal delay. Tatum Bisley, product lead at contact centres solutions provider Cirrus, says: “Language Processing Units are not just changing how we interact with technology in contact centres; they’re setting the stage for a future where real-time processing is seamlessly integrated across various sectors. With LPUs, we’re seeing a dramatic reduction in latency, making interactions with finance or healthcare customers as smooth and natural as face-to-face conversations. “Much like how modern CGI has made it difficult to distinguish between real and computer-generated imagery, LPUs work behind the scenes to ensure a seamless customer experience. The average person doesn’t talk about the CPU in their laptop or the GPU in their gaming console; similarly, they won’t discuss LPUs. However, they will notice how effortlessly and naturally their interactions unfold. “The potential applications of this technology extend far beyond our current use cases. Imagine LPUs in autonomous vehicles or real-time language translation services, where split-second processing can make a world of difference. We are just scratching the surface of what’s possible.” The Impact of LPUs on AI’s Predictive Capabilities Beyond merely improving real-time interactions, LPUs profoundly impact AI systems’ predictive capabilities. This is because LPUs can rapidly process large datasets that will boost AI’s predictive functions. This enhancement enables AI to react to inputs more swiftly, anticipate user needs and adapt interactions accordingly. By handling sequential predictions with much-improved efficiency, LPUs allow AI to deliver contextually relevant and timely responses, creating more natural and engaging dialogues. Moreover, LPUs excel at creating AI that can engage in meaningful conversations, predict user intentions, and respond appropriately in real time. This advancement is pivotal for AI applications where understanding and processing human language are crucial, such as customer service or virtual assistance. Adding LPUs redefines AI’s boundaries, promising substantial progress in how machines comprehend, interact with, and serve humans. As LPUs become more integrated into AI frameworks, we can anticipate even more groundbreaking progression in AI capabilities across various industries. Challenges and Limitations While the excitement around LPUs is well-founded, it’s essential to recognise the practical considerations of integrating this new technology. One main challenge is ensuring LPUs can work seamlessly with existing systems in contact centres, particularly where GPUs and CPUs are still in use, potentially limiting latency improvements. However, this should not be a major concern for contact centre managers. Suppliers of these LPUs provide Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), meaning you pay for what you use rather than bearing the capital expense of the hardware itself—similar to what AWS did for software businesses in the 2000s. The more pressing issues are around misuse or misrepresentation. For instance, using AI to pose as a human can be problematic. While society is still catching up with these advancements, it’s crucial to check with the customer base on what is acceptable and what isn’t. Additionally, ensuring sufficient handoffs are in place is vital—AI isn’t a silver bullet (yet). Training now focuses on maintaining and fine-tuning the systems, tweaking the models, and adjusting the prompts. So, while there are challenges, they are manageable and should not overshadow the significant benefits LPUs bring to enhancing customer interactions. Broader Impact Beyond Contact Centres LPUs aren’t just changing the game in contact centres; they will likely impact operations in most sectors at some point. In healthcare, for instance, real-time language processing could help with everything from scheduling appointments to understanding patient symptoms faster and more accurately. In finance, LPUs could speed up customer service interactions and reduce or even remove wait times for customers seeking advice or needing more complex problem resolution. Retail businesses can leverage LPUs to deliver personalised shopping experiences by enabling customers to find products through voice commands and receive instant information without negatively impacting the shopping experience. Of course, all of these things will take time and investment to come to fruition, but we are clearly on a path to a new kind of customer experience. But are we mere humans ready? Future Outlook Looking ahead, the potential for LPUs in AI development is vast. As technology advances, we can expect LPUs to become even more capable of handling more complex language processing tasks more efficiently. They will likely play a crucial role as voice AI continues integrating with emerging technologies like 5G, improving connectivity, and the Internet of Things (IoT), which will broaden the scope of smart devices that can benefit from real-time voice interaction. As LPUs evolve, they will refine how AI understands and processes human language and expand the horizons of what AI-powered systems can achieve across different industries. Bisley concludes: “As we look toward the future, voice technology in contact centres is not just about understanding words—it’s about understanding intentions and emotions, shaping interactions that feel as natural and nuanced as human conversation. With LPUs, we are stepping into an era where AI doesn’t just mimic human interaction; it enriches it, making every customer interaction more efficient, personal, and insightful. The potential is vast, and as these technologies evolve, they will transform contact centres and redefine the essence of customer service.” Conclusion Integrating LPUs into voice AI systems represents a giant leap for contact centres, offering unprecedented improvements in operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and agent workload. As these technologies mature, their potential to refine the mechanics of voice AI and the very nature of customer interactions is huge. Looking forward, LPUs are set to redefine customer service, making voice AI interactions indistinguishable from human engagements regarding their responsiveness and reliability. The future of AI in customer experiences, powered by LPUs, is not just about maintaining pace with technological advancements but setting new benchmarks for what AI can achieve. The post Language Processing Units (LPUs): Paving the way for advanced voice AI in contact centres appeared first on AI News. View the full article

Nvidia recently overtook Microsoft as the world’s most valuable company and is now in the crosshairs of French antitrust regulators. The French authority is preparing to charge Nvidia with anti-competitive practices as part of the EU’s commitment to maintaining checks and balances within the industry. This development underscores the EU’s resolve to ensure fair competition and prevent market dominance from stifling innovation and consumer choice. Let’s recall Nvidia’s meteoric rise to the pinnacle of the tech industry. Founded in 1993, the US-based giant has grown from a graphics chip manufacturer to a leader in AI, data centres, and autonomous vehicles. Its products power some of the most advanced computing systems in the world, and its influence extends across multiple industries. Nvidia’s graphics processing units (GPUs) are essential for AI and machine learning applications, driving the next wave of technological advancement. This strategic positioning has catapulted Nvidia’s market valuation, surpassing tech giants like Apple and Microsoft. However, with great power comes great responsibility—and scrutiny. According to recent reports, French antitrust regulators are poised to charge Nvidia with anti-competitive practices. The investigation centres on allegations that Nvidia has leveraged its dominant market position to stifle competition and maintain its supremacy in the tech industry. The French authorities’ move is part of a broader trend of increasing regulatory scrutiny of tech giants worldwide. Governments and regulatory bodies are increasingly wary of companies like Nvidia’s outsized influence and market power. In Europe, where antitrust laws are particularly stringent, regulators are keen to ensure a level playing field and protect consumer interests. Potential Implications If the charges are upheld, Nvidia could face substantial fines and be forced to alter its business practices. Though potentially significant, the financial penalties might not be the most critical aspect of the investigation. The operational changes imposed on Nvidia could be more consequential, impacting its competitive edge and market strategy. In short, the stakes are high for Nvidia. The company’s leadership in AI and other cutting-edge technologies relies on its ability to innovate and dominate the market. Regulatory constraints could slow its momentum and allow competitors to catch up. Moreover, the scrutiny could extend beyond France, prompting investigations in other jurisdictions and creating a ripple effect across the global tech industry. Nvidia’s situation is not unique. Tech giants worldwide are facing similar challenges as regulators grapple with the complexities of the digital economy. In recent years, companies like Google, Amazon, and Facebook have also been targets of antitrust investigations and regulatory actions. It points to a widening consensus on balancing innovation with fair competition. While tech companies drive economic growth and technological progress, their market dominance can threaten competition and consumer choice. Regulators are tasked with finding this balance, ensuring that the benefits of technological advancement are widely shared without stifling innovation. To recall, in September 2023, French antitrust authorities raided unnamed companies believed to be indulging in anti-competitive practices related to graphics card products. While they did not name the company or identify it as Nvidia, the chipmaker has since confirmed that it is targeted by French courts, among other companies, regarding its business practices. Nvidia said in a February filing that officials in the US, ********* Union, China, and the *** are also scrutinizing its operations. “Our position in markets relating to AI has led to increased interest in our business from regulators worldwide,” the chipmaker said. In fact, according to a Bloomberg report, French antitrust authorities have already been conducting interviews with market participants regarding Nvidia’s key role in production price control due to an acute lack of chips and how it affects prices. “The office raid was designed to gather additional knowledge regarding possible anti-competitive practices.” What is next for Nvidia and the French regulators? It is more likely than not for Nvidia to mount a robust defence because the AI chip giant has consistently argued that its business practices are competitive and that its innovations benefit consumers and industries alike. Nvidia will likely emphasize its contributions to technological progress and economic growth, positioning itself as a driver of positive change rather than a monopolistic force. However, public perception and regulatory interpretations can differ. Thus, the challenge for Nvidia is clear: to continue its trajectory of success while addressing the concerns of regulators and stakeholders. Ultimately, Nvidia’s response to this regulatory challenge could define its legacy as the world’s most valuable company, demonstrating whether it can uphold its leadership position while adapting to the evolving demands of a fair and competitive market. See also: NVIDIA unveils Blackwell architecture to power next GenAI wave Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including Intelligent Automation Conference, BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo. Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here. The post Nvidia: World’s most valuable company under French antitrust ***** appeared first on AI News. View the full article

Over the years, the video games industry has become one of the biggest and most influential mediums in the entertainment segment. Despite the myriad of games available on the market, from expensive AAA titles to casual games, millions of gamers are brimming with innovative ideas and dream of creating their own unique gaming experiences that studios often overlook. The team at FRVR appears to have found a solution, how to make game development accessible to everyone with the power of AI. About FRVR Chris Benjaminsen and Brian Meidell, veterans of the video game industry, launched FRVR in 2014 intending to make games more accessible to anybody, at any time, and anywhere. Over the years, FRVR has led the quest to democratize game distribution by removing barriers that gamers may face when playing their favorite games. Today on the FRVR platform, gamers can find a wide range of games spanning many genres that are playable on Mobile App Stores, Facebook Instant, Microsoft Windows via Windows Start, Samsung phones, Discord, Steam, Television, and even newer cars. Over 1.5 billion players worldwide have enjoyed the studio’s creations, with some games attracting over 100 million monthly users. With no plans to abandon its mission of making games available to everyone, FRVR has expanded its efforts towards democratizing game development with the release of FRVR AI. This tool lets anybody, regardless of professional background or skill with code and art, create their own games they`d like to play. How FRVR AI works The idea behind FRVR AI is to make the game creation process accessible and simple for anyone who wants to express their creativity, whether it’s bringing a long-held vision to life or entering the game development field to monetize this craft further. Getting started is extremely easy: users simply provide the AI model with a brief description of the game they wish to create. After that, FRVR’s AI engine develops the game’s basic structure, logic, and assets, making it playable right away. Further users can refine the gameplay or visuals by simply interacting with the tool through written instructions until they are satisfied with the final result. The user-friendly layout of the tool is designed to help creators navigate around easily. FRVR AI is divided into five major sections: an input field for communication with the AI model, a live preview for game version playback, a history tab for viewing and modifying history, a code tab for examining source code, and an assets tab for creating and modifying visuals and sounds. Beginners and experienced creators who are unsure about their next steps in game creation can always get assistance thanks to the tool`s strong self-direction function. FRVR AI can analyze the original game description, change history, and source code to automatically propose what it deems to be the next logical step for the game. The generative AI capabilities produce ready visual components, and let users modify the size, ******, and shape of objects to create a distinctive appearance for their games. Recently FRVR AI received an update that lets players add sound effects and backing audio for their creations, which can drastically enhance gameplay dynamics and improve immersion. Like many other AI tools, FRVR AI provides record-keeping on all the prompts that the AI system receives as well as their outcomes. However, what makes it rather unique is the fact that it can revert to any previous state, making the users feel free to try out different options without ***** of possibly ruining their game by making a wrong move. Using FRVR AI is easy and efficient no matter what device the creators are working. The clear and user-friendly interface makes the experience fast and seamless on both computers, tablets, and smartphones, enabling the users to make games from anywhere at any time with the ability to capture and document ideas on the fly. Whether at home or on a trip, the FRVR AI would be a great companion for anyone starting a game development journey. One amazing aspect of FRVR AI is how effortless it is for users to publish their creations on the FRVR platform. Simply clicking the share button allows a game to be included in the library granting access to anyone who wants to enjoy the newly crafted game. Conclusion FRVR AI is currently available in the beta version. Users can join at beta.frvr.ai and start working on their games after their submission is reviewed. The tool has already attracted a large community of over a thousand creators, including game developers and hobbyists, who constantly share their experiences and feedback. Creators can also enter monthly competitions with a $2,500 prize pool available to all users. The team at FRVR keeps working on the tool and regularly releases new updates, improvements, and entire features. Through analyzing the creators’ feedback and keeping up with the trends, FRVR aims to make an inclusive platform where anyone, from newcomers to seasoned developers, can have a great time creating, sharing, and playing fun games. The post FRVR AI makes game creation available to anyone appeared first on AI News. View the full article

Following Apple’s partnership announcement with OpenAI at WWDC last month, a new report reveals that the tech giant will secure an “observer role” on OpenAI’s board of directors. The new arrangement – set to take effect later this year – will see Apple’s long-time marketing chief turned Apple Fellow, Phil Schiller, representing the company in this capacity. According to Bloomberg, Apple’s position on the OpenAI board will mirror that of Microsoft—the AI company’s largest backer and primary technology provider. While Schiller will be able to attend board meetings, he will not have voting power or other director privileges. However, this role will grant Apple valuable insights into OpenAI’s decision-making processes. The partnership between Apple and OpenAI, announced at WWDC in June, will bring ChatGPT integration to iOS 18 as part of the Apple Intelligence suite of features. Notably, this collaboration does not involve any financial exchange between the two companies. Apple reportedly views the exposure given to ChatGPT in iOS 18 as “of equal or greater value” than monetary compensation, while OpenAI benefits from the reach of Apple’s platforms. Bloomberg’s report indicates that Schiller “hasn’t yet attended any meetings” of the OpenAI board, and “details of the situation could still change.” This cautious approach suggests that both companies are carefully navigating this new relationship. Schiller’s appointment to this role is particularly noteworthy given his extensive experience and current responsibilities at Apple. Since transitioning to an Apple Fellow role in 2020, Schiller has continued to lead the App Store and Apple events, reporting directly to CEO Tim Cook. He has also been at the forefront of Apple’s efforts to defend the App Store against global antitrust allegations. By securing a seat at OpenAI’s table, even in an observer capacity, Apple positions itself to gain valuable insights into one of the leading AI research organisations. (Photo by Daniel McCullough) See also: EU probes Microsoft-OpenAI and Google-Samsung AI deals Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including Intelligent Automation Conference, BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo. Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here. The post Apple secures ‘observer’ seat on OpenAI board appeared first on AI News. View the full article

Discover how AI is revolutionising digital marketing with success stories and key strategies. Learn about personalisation, predictive analytics, content creation, and more. The rapid evolution of AI is revolutionising digital marketing, offering unprecedented opportunities for personalisation, efficiency, and customer engagement. By leveraging advanced algorithms and machine learning techniques, AI is transforming how marketers interact with their audiences, predict customer behaviour, and optimise their strategies for better results. This article delves into the multifaceted impact of AI on digital marketing, highlighting success stories and key strategies that are shaping the future of the industry. AI’s influence on digital marketing careers and education AI is reshaping digital marketing careers, requiring new skills and knowledge. As AI continues to integrate into marketing practices, professionals must adapt by acquiring expertise in data analysis, machine learning, and AI tools. Visit DigiPortal to learn about career opportunities and educational resources. Killian Smith, the mind behind DigiPortal, has over a decade of experience in software development and cybersecurity. Personalisation and customer insights AI helps in creating highly personalised marketing campaigns by analysing vast amounts of data to derive customer insights. Machine learning algorithms can identify patterns and preferences, allowing marketers to tailor their messages to individual customers. For instance, Netflix and Amazon use AI to recommend products and content based on user behaviour, resulting in higher engagement and satisfaction. Predictive analytics and decision-making AI-driven predictive analytics enable marketers to anticipate customer behaviour and make informed decisions. By analysing historical data, AI can forecast future trends, helping businesses to plan their strategies effectively. For example, retailers use predictive analytics to optimise inventory levels and marketing efforts, reducing costs and improving customer satisfaction. AI-driven content creation and curation AI tools are revolutionising content creation and curation, allowing marketers to produce high-quality content efficiently. Tools like GPT-4 are capable of generating high-quality text content, from blog posts to social media updates. These tools can create content that is engaging and relevant, saving time and resources for marketers. For example, The Washington Post uses AI to write news articles, freeing up journalists to focus on in-depth reporting. Content optimisation and SEO AI helps optimise content for search engines by analysing keywords, recommending improvements, and tracking performance. AI-driven SEO tools can identify the most effective keywords, suggest content structure, and monitor rankings. A table comparing traditional vs. AI-driven SEO strategies highlights the efficiency and accuracy of AI in optimising content. Traditional SEO StrategiesAI-Driven SEO StrategiesManual keyword researchAutomated keyword analysisBasic performance trackingAdvanced performance insightsStatic optimisation methodsDynamic content recommendations AI in customer engagement and support AI significantly improves customer engagement and support through advanced technologies like chatbots and virtual assistants. AI-powered chatbots AI-powered chatbots provide 24/7 customer support, offering personalised responses and handling multiple queries simultaneously. Companies like H&M and Sephora use chatbots to assist customers with product recommendations, order tracking, and more, enhancing the overall customer experience. Virtual assistants Virtual assistants streamline customer interactions by providing seamless and personalised services. Technologies like Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa are examples of AI-driven virtual assistants that help businesses engage with customers through voice commands and smart interactions. AI in advertising and campaign management AI is transforming advertising by enabling precise targeting, real-time bidding, and campaign optimisation. Programmatic advertising Programmatic advertising uses AI to automate the buying and selling of ad space in real time. This method ensures that ads are shown to the right audience at the right time, maximising ROI. Case studies show that businesses using programmatic advertising see significant improvements in ad performance and cost-efficiency. Audience targeting and segmentation AI helps in segmenting audiences based on behaviour, demographics, and preferences. AI tools like Google Ads and Facebook Ads Manager allow marketers to target ads more effectively, resulting in higher engagement rates. A list of top AI tools for audience targeting includes platforms like AdRoll, Quantcast, and Smartly.io. Ethical considerations and challenges in AI marketing Despite its benefits, AI in marketing also raises ethical concerns and challenges that need to be addressed. Data privacy concerns AI’s reliance on data poses significant privacy concerns. Companies must ensure compliance with data protection regulations like GDPR to protect customer information. Best practices for data privacy include data anonymisation, secure data storage, and transparent data usage policies. Addressing algorithmic bias Algorithmic bias can lead to unfair and discriminatory outcomes in AI-driven marketing tools. Identifying and mitigating bias is crucial to ensure ethical AI usage. Examples of biased algorithms and corrective steps include regular audits, diverse data sets, and inclusive algorithm design. Trends and future of AI in digital marketing The future of AI in digital marketing is promising, with emerging trends set to further revolutionise the industry. AI and augmented reality (AR) AI is being integrated with AR to create immersive marketing experiences. Brands like IKEA and L’Oreal use AR to allow customers to visualise products in their own environment, enhancing engagement and purchase decisions. Voice search and AI The rise of voice search is changing how content is optimised for voice-based queries. AI tools optimise content for voice search by focusing on natural language processing and conversational keywords. Statistics show that voice search is becoming increasingly popular, with tips for voice search optimisation including the use of long-tail keywords and local SEO. Conclusion AI is undeniably transforming digital marketing, offering innovative solutions for personalisation, efficiency, and customer engagement. As AI continues to evolve, staying updated with the latest trends and technologies is essential for businesses to remain competitive. Embrace the power of AI to drive your marketing strategies and achieve unparalleled success in the digital landscape The post How AI is transforming digital marketing: 2024 trends and insights appeared first on AI News. View the full article

Google is currently grappling with a major dilemma: finding a way to maintain its impressive progress in AI technology while also staying true to its goal of minimising carbon emissions. In its 2024 Environmental Report, Google discloses a concerning trend: a staggering 50% surge in emissions over the past five years. This surge can be attributed mainly to the heightened energy requirements of its AI-powered data centres. This alarming surge threatens to derail Google’s ambitious climate goals and underscores a growing conflict between technological progress and environmental sustainability. The report, reflecting Google’s progress toward meeting its environmental goals last year, shows that the company’s total greenhouse gas emissions increased from 9.7 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent in 2019 to 14.3 million metric tons in 2023. The figure is 48% higher than in 2019, the company said, and 13% higher than in 2022. Google attributed the rise mainly to the energy consumption of its data centres, which power AI applications such as Google Search, Google Assistant, and various cloud services, as well as emissions from its supply chain “AI is at an inflection point, and many factors will influence its ultimate impact—including the extent of AI adoption, our ability to mitigate its footprint, and the pace of continued innovation and efficiency,” the report stated. For context, as with most Big Tech, Google’s commitment to sustainability has been a cornerstone of its corporate ethos. The tech giant has pledged to operate on 24/7 carbon-free energy by 2030, aiming to set a precedent for the industry. However, the latest figures cast a shadow over these aspirations. AI technologies, especially those that involve deep learning and large language models, are notoriously energy-intensive. Training these models requires vast computational power, translating into substantial energy use. “As we further integrate AI into our products, reducing emissions may be challenging due to increasing energy demands from the greater intensity of AI compute, and the emissions associated with the expected increases in our technical infrastructure investment,” Google admitted in the report. This trend poses a significant challenge to Google’s sustainability objectives. The paradox here is striking: the technologies that promise to revolutionise industries, enhance efficiencies, and drive innovation also contribute to an escalating environmental crisis. Google’s case is not unique. Other tech giants like Microsoft and Amazon also grapple with the dual pressures of advancing AI and reducing their environmental impact. However, Google’s recent spike in emissions is a stark reminder of the urgent need for a balanced approach. “System-level changes are needed to address challenges such as grid decarbonisation, evolving regulations, hard-to-decarbonise industries, and the availability of carbon-free energy,” the report stated. To reconcile its AI ambitions with its climate goals, Google admits that it must intensify its efforts in several areas. First, there needs to be a greater emphasis on developing more energy-efficient AI models. Advances in AI chip design, such as Google’s Tensor Processing Units (TPUs), are a step in the right direction. Still, more must be done to optimise AI algorithms’ energy efficiency. Research into low-power AI and quantum computing could provide breakthroughs in this regard. Second, Google should continue to invest heavily in renewable energy sources. While the company has made significant strides in purchasing renewable energy, achieving a 24/7 carbon-free energy supply ******** a formidable challenge. The 2024 Environmental Report emphasises, “Our path to 24/7 carbon-free energy is fraught with challenges, but it is a critical component of our sustainability strategy. We are committed to overcoming these obstacles through innovation and collaboration.” The International Energy Agency estimates that data centres’ total electricity consumption could double from 2022 levels to 1,000TWh (terawatt hours) in 2026, approximately Japan’s level of electricity demand. Calculations by research firm SemiAnalysis reckon that AI will result in data centres using 4.5% of global energy generation by 2030. Frankly, Google is not the first major technology company to point to the rapid expansion of AI as a barrier to reaching environmental goals. In May, Microsoft Corp. announced that its carbon emissions have increased by 30% since 2020 as the business increased its investment in AI. The rise made the company’s ambition of achieving net-zero emissions by 2030 considerably more complicated than when it announced its carbon-negative goal. In conclusion, most tech giants’ ambitious AI-driven future is at odds with their environmental goals. This presents a formidable challenge that requires innovative solutions and unwavering commitment. Google and Microsoft’s recent environmental report provides a sobering reminder of the stakes. As tech giants like Google strive to lead the AI revolution, it must also lead in forging a sustainable path forward. The industry can only achieve its vision of a carbon-free future by addressing these dual priorities while continuing to innovate. (Photo by Solen Feyissa) See also: Google ushers in the “Gemini era” with AI advancements Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo. Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here. The post Google’s dilemma: AI expansion vs achieving climate goals appeared first on AI News. View the full article