EU Parliament Approves AI Act, Meta Unveils ‘Human-Like’ Model, and AI Transforms Recruitment
This week, we brought news and significant events in the artificial intelligence (AI) domain, from Meta’s “human-like” AI image creation model to the European Parliament’s approval of the AI Act and from Google’s integration of generative AI into online shopping features to Humanly’s AI-powered software, which streamlines recruiting processes and enhances efficiency in candidate selection. We explore the recent developments that illustrate AI’s far-reaching impact on society and offer a glimpse into the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.
Meta releases ‘human-like’ AI image creation model
Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has unveiled a groundbreaking AI model called I-JEPA. This model stands out from existing generative AI models by incorporating background knowledge about the world to accurately analyze and complete unfinished images. Unlike other models focusing on nearby pixels, I-JEPA employs a human-like reasoning approach, reducing common errors found in AI-generated images, such as hands with extra fingers. Meta’s decision to provide researchers with access to this advanced AI model aligns with its commitment to open-source AI research and its aim to foster innovation, enhance safety measures, and reduce costs in the AI community.
EU Parliament approves AI Act, moving it closer to becoming law
The European Parliament has taken a significant stride in regulating AI by approving a draft of the EU’s AI Act. While not passing unanimously, this legislation signifies an important step towards establishing the first comprehensive set of regulations for AI in Western countries. The AI Act is subject to potential modifications, requiring each EU member state to agree on the bill before it becomes law. Notably, the Act includes provisions related to the regulation of generative AI and large language models like ChatGPT, ensuring transparency and distinguishing AI-generated content from authentic creations.
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Elon Musk says people are ‘already cyborgs’ because machines maintain our memory for us
Renowned entrepreneur Elon Musk recently expressed his view that humans are “already cyborgs” due to our reliance on machines to store and recall information. In a tweet, Musk highlighted that our memory is extensively outsourced to computers, which can retain information with utmost precision. Musk’s statement emphasizes the evolving relationship between humans and machines and raises intriguing questions about integrating AI and human cognition.
Google introduces generative AI in online shopping features
Google has introduced generative AI technology to enhance online shopping experiences and compete with e-commerce giants like Amazon. The newly announced features aim to provide users with a better understanding of how apparel will fit them, regardless of body size, through search and image-recognition technologies. Additionally, Google has integrated generative AI into researching travel destinations and mapping routes, enabling the generation of text, images, and videos from simple prompts. This move by Google aligns with its goal of becoming a hub for consumers and merchants, fostering an open ecosystem that leverages AI technologies.
TikTok to invest billions of dollars in Southeast Asia to boost e-commerce business
TikTok, owned by China’s ByteDance, has announced plans to invest billions of dollars in Southeast Asia over the next few years. This strategic investment aims to strengthen TikTok’s presence in the region, which boasts a significant user base of over 325 million monthly visitors. Despite its popularity, TikTok faces fierce competition from prominent e-commerce platforms in the region, such as Sea’s Shopee, Alibaba’s Lazada, and GoTo’s Tokopedia, in effectively monetizing its user base.
Windows 11 signals a new era for user experiences with AI integration
Microsoft is spearheading the integration of artificial intelligence into its products, including Windows, Office, and the Microsoft Store. By incorporating generative AI into Windows, Microsoft aims to empower users to become more proficient in working with AI, enabling them to articulate their needs effectively and obtain better results. This approach reduces the number of iterations required for the AI to understand user requirements and encourages users to develop the skills necessary to comprehend and communicate their preferences effectively.
Humanly raises $12M to expand AI-powered recruiting automation
Humanly, a Seattle-based startup, has secured $12 million in funding to accelerate the growth of its AI-powered software for automating recruiting processes. Companies like Microsoft, the Seattle Storm, and Moss Adams utilize Humanly’s technology to streamline candidate screening, interview scheduling, automated communication, and reference checks. The company is heavily investing in its short message service (SMS) chatbots, which leverage generative AI to interact with job candidates. Trained on extensive hiring data, these chatbots provide tailored responses and can even account for specific regional regulations, enhancing efficiency in the hiring process.