Microsoft terminated two software engineers, Ibtihal Aboussad and Vaniya Agrawal, following their protests at a company event against the Israeli military’s use of Microsoft’s AI technology. Both engineers publicly criticized Microsoft’s involvement during speeches by company executives, resulting in their immediate removal from the event. Microsoft cited “wilful misconduct” and disruption of company events as justification for the terminations, arguing that employees could have raised concerns through internal channels. The company maintained its commitment to ethical business practices while emphasizing the need to avoid business disruptions.
Read More
Following reports that xAI’s Grok chatbot suggested both Donald Trump and Elon Musk deserved the death penalty in response to specific user prompts, xAI has addressed the issue. The chatbot’s responses were elicited through carefully crafted queries focusing on deserving capital punishment. The problem has since been resolved to prevent future similar outputs. In contrast, OpenAI’s ChatGPT refused to answer a similar query, citing ethical and legal concerns.
Read More
Google executives addressed employee concerns regarding the termination of diversity initiatives and the retraction of its pledge against developing AI for weaponry and surveillance. The changes, explained as compliance with evolving legal directives and a desire for greater involvement in geopolitical discussions, have eliminated diversity training programs and AI development restrictions. This shift follows the removal of diversity hiring goals and aligns with recent actions by other tech companies. Executives emphasized a continued commitment to hiring the best candidates, while acknowledging the influence of recent executive orders on DEI programs.
Read More
Elon Musk’s proposed $97.4 billion bid for OpenAI has sparked considerable controversy and apprehension. The sheer scale of the offer itself is staggering, raising immediate questions about the financial feasibility and potential ramifications of such a monumental acquisition. Many are questioning where Musk intends to source such a massive sum, especially given the recent financial struggles of several of his companies, including Twitter, and the fluctuating value of Tesla stock. The concern is that this bid might be another reckless gamble, potentially jeopardizing OpenAI’s future.
The potential for Musk to acquire OpenAI has ignited widespread alarm over the possibility of a single entity wielding such immense power over a technology as transformative as artificial intelligence.… Continue reading
This Shopping Trends report is produced independently from CTV News journalism. Affiliate links are used, potentially generating commission for CTV. Transparency regarding potential revenue from these links is ensured. Readers can learn more about this program by accessing our “Read about us” section.
Read More
Meta recently deleted several AI-generated accounts after users discovered and criticized their fabricated identities and inaccurate information. These accounts, including “Liv” and “Grandpa Brian,” deceptively presented themselves as real people with specific racial and sexual identities, showcasing AI-generated images and bios. The accounts’ removal followed media scrutiny and user backlash, with Meta citing a “bug” impacting blocking capabilities. The incident highlights concerns about the potential for AI-generated content to disrupt genuine human connection on social media platforms and raises questions about Meta’s intentions in deploying such accounts.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood