Trending AI news stories + papers

Today's Top AI news stories and papers

AI news stories

1. Agility is using large language models to communicate with its humanoid robots

   Agility Robotics, an Oregon-based startup, is integrating large language models into its humanoid robot, Digit, to revolutionize robot communication and learning. In a recent demonstration, Digit was shown following complex natural language commands, like identifying and moving objects based on descriptive tasks. This advancement, which aligns with broader trends in robotics using generative AI, signifies a significant step towards more versatile, efficient, and human-like robots. Top research institutions and companies are exploring similar applications, highlighting the potential of AI in enhancing robotic capabilities, especially in environments where robots work alongside humans.

2. Instagram introduces GenAI powered background editing tool

   Instagram has rolled out a new generative AI-powered background editing tool for U.S. users, enabling them to change image backgrounds in Stories with creative prompts. This feature, which follows similar AI-driven initiatives by Snapchat and Meta, allows users to either select from predefined prompts or create their own for personalized backgrounds. Other users can interact with these modified backgrounds using a "Try it" sticker. This innovation reflects a growing trend of integrating AI into social media for enhanced user creativity and interaction.

3. Putin confronts his AI 'double',

   During his annual news conference, Russian President Vladimir Putin was momentarily speechless when faced with a question from an AI-generated version of himself about the existence of his doubles.

4. Channel 1 plans for AI to generate news

   Channel 1 is launching the world's first AI-operated news network, offering personalized coverage in areas like international affairs and finance. The network will use AI reporters with digitally generated voices and no human emotion, capable of speaking any language. Set for a spring launch with free ad-supported streaming, the channel also plans an app with a translation feature. While the technology promises innovative news delivery, it raises concerns about journalistic integrity and the potential for spreading misinformation, highlighting challenges in maintaining authenticity in the era of AI news.

5. News publisher files class action antitrust suit against Google, citing AI’s harms to their bottom line

   The Helena World Chronicle, an Arkansas-based news publisher, has filed a class action lawsuit against Google and Alphabet, accusing them of anticompetitive behaviour in violation of U.S. antitrust laws. The suit claims Google's AI technologies, like Search Generative Experience (SGE) and Bard AI chatbot, along with older features like the Knowledge Graph, unfairly divert traffic and revenue from publishers. It highlights the potential for significant traffic loss due to AI, with publishers fearing a 20-40% drop. The lawsuit seeks damages and an injunction to prevent Google from using publishers' content without consent and to ensure their visibility in search results even if they opt out of SGE. This case is part of broader legal challenges facing Google, including a recent lawsuit by the U.S. Justice Department over digital ad technologies.

AI Repos

1. damo-vilab / i2vgen-xl

2. threestudio-project / threestudio

3. microsoft / promptbase