Here is the latest edition of The Download, our newsletter for weekdays that delivers a daily update on the happenings in the tech world.
Next-gen AI chips may utilize glass
Human-created glass dates back thousands of years. Yet, it is now ready to be integrated into the AI chips found in the globe’s newest and largest data centers.
This year, a South Korean firm named Absolics will commence the production of specialized glass panels that enhance the power and efficiency of next-level computing hardware. Other companies, such as Intel, are also advancing in this field.
If everything proceeds smoothly, this innovation might lessen the energy consumption of chips in AI data centers—and even in personal laptops and mobile devices. Read the complete story.
—Jeremy Hsu
Essential reads
I’ve scoured the web to discover the most entertaining/important/terrifying/intriguing stories about technology today.
1 The rush is on to create a worldwide recognized “AI-free” label
Organizations are hurrying to establish a universal tag for human-produced goods. (BBC)
+ A “QuitGPT” initiative is encouraging individuals to abandon ChatGPT. (MIT Technology Review)
2 Elizabeth Warren seeks clarity on xAI’s access to military information
The Pentagon reportedly permitted it access to classified networks. (NBC News)
+ Here’s how chatbots might be employed for targeting decisions. (MIT Technology Review)
+ The DoD is facing challenges in upgrading software for fighter jets. (Bloomberg $)
3 Models are applying to represent AI romance scams
The “AI face models” are deceiving victims into losing their money. (Wired $)
+ Survivors have disclosed how the “pig butchering” scams function. (MIT Technology Review)
4 Meta is contemplating layoffs that could impact over 20% of its workforce
The cuts could counterbalance its expensive investment in AI. (Reuters $)
+ There’s a lengthy history of concerns regarding AI’s effect on employment. (MIT Technology Review)
5 ByteDance postponed launching a video AI model due to copyright issues
It famously generated footage featuring Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt in combat. (The Information $)
6 Cybersecurity investigators have unveiled a significant North Korean scheme
The fraudsters acquired remote jobs in the US and then embezzled money and confidential data. (NBC News)
7 A Chinese AI startup is projected to reach an astounding $18 billion valuation
That’s more than four times its valuation just three months back. (Bloomberg $)
+ Chinese open models are rapidly advancing—here’s why this is significant. (MIT Technology Review)
8 Peter Thiel has launched a lecture series on the antichrist in Rome
His initiatives have garnered interest from the Catholic Church. (Reuters $)
9 Norway is standing up against internet degradation
It has joined an international movement opposing the decline of online spaces. (The Guardian)
+ We may need to move past the major platforms.(MIT Technology Review)
10 How a startup aims to bring back the dodo
Humans eradicated them almost 400 years ago—can gene editing revive them today? (Guardian)
Quote of the day
“I would create fission weapons. I would create fusion weapons. Nuclear weapons have historically been one of the most stabilizing factors ever.”
—Anduril founder Palmer Luckey expresses his admiration for nuclear arms with Axios.
One More Thing
We need an ambitious leap for computing
The US government is positioning itself for the upcoming phase of computing. Ultimately, it faces a crucial decision: adopt a conservative approach that seeks to maintain its superiority for the next five years—or pivot towards authentic computing breakthroughs.
The options are plentiful, including quantum computing, neuromorphic computing and reversible computing. There are also numerous innovative materials and devices. These prospects could even be combined to create hybrid computing solutions.
The National Semiconductor Technology Center is capable of advancing these concepts. To achieve success, it would benefit from emulating DARPA’s approach by emphasizing moonshot initiatives. Read the complete story.
—Brady Helwig & PJ Maykish
We can still enjoy nice things
A space for comfort, entertainment, and distraction to lift your spirits. (Have any suggestions? Reach out to me.)
+ A UPS delivery driver heroically evaded two aggressive turkeys.
+ Art’s connection with cats is adorably showcased in a new book.
+ The unassuming pea and six other overlooked superfoods offer accessible nutritional benefits.
+ MF DOOM: Long Island to Leeds tells the Transatlantic story of your favorite rapper’s favorite rapper.
