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OpenAI Buys Global Illumination

OpenAI has recently undertaken its first public acquisition by acquiring Global Illumination. Global Illumination specializes in utilizing AI to create innovative tools, digital experiences, and infrastructure. Although the terms of the deal remain undisclosed, OpenAI expressed its anticipation of the positive impact that the newly acquired team will bring to its core products, particularly ChatGPT. 

The co-founders of Global Illumination, Thomas Dimson, Taylor Gordon, and Joey Flynn, have an impressive track record, having contributed to projects at prominent tech companies such as Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Google, Pixar, and Riot Games. Global Illumination is expected that their efforts at OpenAI will be geared more towards core AI products rather than entertainment ventures.

Former Google CEO Launches AI Science Organization

Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt is embarking on an ambitious venture to address scientific challenges through the integration of artificial intelligence. Schmidt's new nonprofit initiative has enlisted accomplished scientists Samuel Rodriques and Andrew White to lead the effort. Rodriques, the founder of the Applied Biotechnology Laboratory at the Francis Crick Institute, and White, a pioneering figure in AI applications within chemistry from the University of Rochester, are set to drive the project's goals.

This undertaking is reminiscent of OpenAI's approach, to attract top-tier talent in the realms of science and AI. The project's focus is on harnessing the convergence of these fields to potentially revolutionize drug discovery and material sciences. While Schmidt's personal wealth is expected to serve as the primary funding source, external funding might be sought given the project's lofty aspirations. Schmidt intends to provide competitive compensation and valuable resources, particularly high-performance computing capabilities that are often scarce in academia. Despite being in its nascent stages, the venture holds the potential to reconfigure the landscape of scientific collaboration.

The initiative underscores a shift in Silicon Valley's priorities. While the tech industry has long centered around the internet and associated businesses driven by advertising, a new emphasis is emerging on the convergence of AI and science. This marks a pivotal and compelling change that signifies a renewed focus on genuine scientific and technological advancements. As Schmidt's new nonprofit unfolds, it could become a hub for innovative ideas and potentially spawn valuable intellectual property or startups, mirroring the evolution of OpenAI from nonprofit to for-profit, and reflecting the broader transformation happening in the tech landscape.

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Humane Sets Release Date For AI Clothing

Humane, the company behind the intriguing "connected and intelligent clothing-based wearable" known as Ai Pin, has managed to maintain an air of mystery around its groundbreaking creation. Anticipation is building as the company sets October 14, 2023, the date of a solar eclipse, as the moment when the veil will finally be lifted.

Sam Sheffer, the company's head of social new media, highlighted the exceptional craftsmanship of the device and praised the innovative laser projection technology, deeming it a unique and compelling means of interfacing with ephemeral elements. As the world eagerly awaits the unveiling of Humane's Ai Pin on the day of a solar eclipse, the company's blend of cutting-edge technology and cosmic symbolism promises to usher in a new era of wearable innovation.

Google Building Life Advice AI Tools

Google's DeepMind is leveraging generative AI technology to create a diverse set of at least 21 tools designed for offering life advice, planning assistance, and tutoring.

This initiative comes on the heels of Google's own AI safety experts cautioning against the potential negative effects of users relying on AI for life advice, including compromised well-being and a reduced sense of agency. To test these tools, Google has partnered with Scale AI, known for its expertise in training and validating AI software. Over 100 individuals holding Ph.D. degrees have been engaged in the project, examining the tools' capabilities in areas such as relationship advice and addressing personal questions.

It is highlighted that these DeepMind-developed tools are not intended for therapeutic use, a decision influenced by the contentious history of AI misuse in medical and therapeutic contexts. The cautionary stance stems from instances like the suspension of the National Eating Disorder Association's Tessa chatbot due to harmful advice provided.

While opinions among medical professionals and regulators on the short-term benefits of AI usage vary, there is a consensus that introducing AI tools for advice must be carefully considered. Google DeepMind emphasized its commitment to rigorous evaluation and collaboration with various partners to ensure the safety and effectiveness of its technology, clarifying that isolated evaluation samples do not fully represent their product roadmap.

California Approves Self Driving Cars

California regulators have granted approval for self-driving car companies Waymo and Cruise to offer 24/7 paid taxi services in San Francisco, marking a significant milestone for the autonomous transportation industry and potentially setting the stage for wider adoption of self-driving technology. 

The decision removes many operating and charging restrictions, effectively paving the way for autonomous ride-hailing services. Despite pushback from local leaders and residents who raised concerns about traffic disruptions and emergency scene disturbances, the California Public Utilities Commission voted 3-1 in favor of the permits. Waymo and Cruise are among over 40 companies permitted to test their self-driving vehicles in the city, with these two giants leading the way.

Other notable players, including Apple and Amazon's Zoox, are also engaged in testing. The vote underscores the complexities of regulating this rapidly evolving industry, raising questions about safety standards, software control, and oversight. While experts caution that a fully realized self-driving future might still be years away, this development signals a critical step toward reshaping transportation norms and emphasizes the need for swift regulatory adaptation to technological advancements.