Introduction:
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a rapidly evolving field with various applications and implications. In this roundup of recent AI stories, we explore topics ranging from copyright infringement to AI in different industries, such as energy, carbon capture, medicine, and algorithmic justice. Additionally, we delve into the concept of compensating content creators in AI-generated content using cooperative game theory.
Copyright Infringement Lawsuit:
Eight prominent U.S. newspapers, including the New York Daily News and the Chicago Tribune, have sued OpenAI and Microsoft for copyright infringement. They accuse the companies of using generative AI technology to scrape their intellectual property without permission or compensation. OpenAI has existing partnerships with publishers and is expected to settle the lawsuit through a licensing deal. However, the question remains about compensating other content creators whose works are used in model training without payment.
Compensation Framework for Content Creators:
OpenAI is considering a framework proposed by Boaz Barak, a scientist on OpenAI’s Superalignment team, to compensate copyright owners proportionally to their contributions to AI-generated content. This framework uses cooperative game theory to evaluate the influence of content in a training data set and determine rightful compensation. While the framework is computationally expensive and relies on estimates rather than exact calculations, it shows OpenAI’s intention to address the concerns of content creators.
AI in Different Industries:
Microsoft has reaffirmed its ban on facial recognition integration for police departments in the U.S., adding language to its terms of service for Azure OpenAI Service. This move highlights the ethical considerations surrounding facial recognition technology.
AI startups face unique challenges compared to traditional software-as-a-service companies. According to Rudina Seseri, founder and managing partner at Glasswing Ventures, these challenges require specialized approaches and strategies.
Anthropic, an AI startup, has launched a paid plan called “Team” aimed at enterprises. It provides higher-priority access to their generative AI models and additional management controls for customers.
Amazon’s CodeWhisperer has been rebranded as Q Developer, a part of Amazon’s Q family of generative AI chatbots. The renamed product offers assistance to developers with tasks such as debugging and upgrading apps.
Walmart-owned Sam’s Club is utilizing AI to speed up its “exit technology.” Customers who pay through the Scan & Go mobile app can now walk out of certain store locations without having their purchases double-checked.
Shinkei, a company working on automated fish harvesting, aims to improve the process by dispatching fish more humanely and reliably. This automated system could revolutionize the seafood economy.
Yelp has introduced an AI-powered chatbot on its iOS app, powered by OpenAI models. This chatbot helps users connect with relevant businesses for various tasks, expanding convenience and efficiency.
AI in the Energy Sector:
Argonne National Lab brought together AI and energy sector experts to discuss the potential applications of AI in infrastructure and research and development (R&D) for the country’s energy sector. The resulting report highlights the need for high-powered compute tools, identifying weak points in simulations and predictions, and AI tools that integrate data from multiple sources.
Georgia Tech and Meta are collaborating on OpenDAC, a database intended to help scientists design carbon capture processes more easily. By focusing on metal-organic frameworks, the database offers valuable insights into this promising material type for carbon capture.
AI in Medicine:
Researchers at Cambridge and Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München aim to create AI models that can identify causal mechanisms, not just correlations. This development could significantly enhance treatment plans by understanding the underlying causes of medical conditions.
Emergent Auditing in Algorithmic Justice:
Grad student Ro Encarnación at the University of Pennsylvania is exploring the concept of “emergent auditing” in algorithmic justice. This approach focuses on user responses to problematic algorithms on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. It highlights the resilience and adaptability of users in navigating and addressing algorithmic biases.
Conclusion:
As AI continues to advance, it is essential to address ethical considerations, such as copyright infringement, compensating content creators, and algorithmic biases. The incorporation of AI in various industries, such as energy, medicine, and algorithmic justice, presents both opportunities and challenges. By staying informed about the latest developments and research, we can navigate this fast-moving industry with greater understanding and responsibility.