July 20, 2023

  • Detection

    How to spot an AI cheater

    BBC, 07/20/23. The rise of AI-generated content poses challenges to education and information integrity. Encountering an AI-written essay in a science competition, the author reflects on the need to identify such cheats. Detection tools are evolving but not foolproof, demanding a skeptical attitude and human oversight. As AI becomes more sophisticated, critical thinking is crucial. Beyond education, cybercriminals exploit AI to create fake documents and profiles, demanding vigilance in cross-checking and verifying information. The future requires us to be vigilant truth detectives in an increasingly AI-driven world. READ THE ARTICLE

  • Hardware

    An A.I. Supercomputer Whirs to Life, Powered by Giant Computer Chips

    The New York Times, 07/20/23. A Silicon Valley start-up, Cerebras, has unveiled a new supercomputer built with their specialized chips designed for artificial intelligence (AI) products. These chips are 56 times larger than traditional AI chips and can pack the computing power of hundreds of traditional chips. The demand for computing power and AI chips has skyrocketed, leading to a competitive race among tech giants and start-ups to develop their own alternatives. Cerebras aims to show that their work can be done faster, more energy-efficient, and at a lower cost. This development could potentially change the balance of power among tech companies and even nations. READ THE ARTICLE

  • Design

    Barbie-inspired AI magazine cover sparks controversy

    Creative Bloq, 07/20/23. The use of AI-generated imagery for fashion magazine covers is becoming more prevalent, as seen with the recent Barbie-inspired cover of Glamour in Bulgaria. Model Lisa Opie proposed the idea, and the image was created entirely by an AI image generator. Opie praised the ease and fun of working with the AI artist, although some question whether AI-generated fashion imagery is authentic. Opie believes that AI art can help reduce waste in production, but also acknowledges the need for legislation to protect individuals from the misuse of AI technology. This is not the first time AI-generated covers have made headlines, highlighting the growing influence of AI in the creative industry. READ THE ARTICLE

  • Surveillance

    NYC subway using AI to track fare evasion

    NBC News, 07/20/23. Surveillance software with artificial intelligence is being used in some New York City subway stations to identify fare evaders, according to public documents and contracts. The system, developed by AWAAIT, aims to help crack down on fare evasion and has been in use since at least 2020. The Metropolitan Transit Authority plans to expand the system to more stations by the end of the year. Privacy advocates are concerned about the growing surveillance apparatus in the city, but the MTA claims the software is simply being used as a counting tool to determine fare evasion rates. READ THE ARTICLE

  • Chatbots

    We’re Using A.I. Chatbots Wrong. Here’s How to Direct Them.

    The New York Times, 07/20/23. In the age of A.I.-powered chatbots, it is important to understand their limitations. While these chatbots can write essays and recipes, they often fabricate information, leading to inaccuracies. However, when directed to use information from trusted sources, such as credible websites and research papers, A.I. can be highly accurate and helpful. By providing chatbots with specific high-quality data, they can generate intelligible answers and useful advice. Additionally, directing chatbots to specific sources can help reduce the spread of misinformation. It is crucial to pair A.I.’s language abilities with high-quality information to maximize its benefits. READ THE ARTICLE