May Roundup: AI Firsts, Tech Giants Race, Ethical Issues Faced
AI Firsts: Met Gala and Music Video
The Metropolitan Museum of Art announced a groundbreaking collaboration with OpenAI for its "Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion" exhibition. Utilizing GPT-4 technology, OpenAI developed a chatbot that personifies 1930s socialite Natalie Potter, offering visitors an interactive experience. OpenAI CTO Mira Murati highlighted the potential of AI to elevate artistic experiences. Additionally, indie musician Washed Out released a music video for "The Hardest Part," entirely created using OpenAI's Sora model. Directed by Paul Trillio, the video features AI-generated scenes blending reality and dream-like visuals. These innovative applications of AI in art and music underscore the technology's growing influence on creative industries.
Tech Giants Race Ahead in AI
As AI continues to push boundaries, major tech companies are stepping up their game. On May 15, 2024, Google and OpenAI announced significant advancements in AI systems, intensifying the competitive AI landscape. Google introduced AI-driven search summaries, providing more conversational responses to user queries. OpenAI unveiled GPT-4o, featuring enhanced voice capabilities for natural interactions. Google CEO Sundar Pichai emphasized quick, definitive answers in search, while OpenAI CEO Sam Altman noted the improved conversational feel.
Simultaneously, Microsoft introduced "Copilot+" PCs with advanced AI capabilities, priced from $1,000 and shipping on June 18. These PCs feature the "Recall" function for tracking user activities, integrating GPT-4o and Qualcomm's AI-optimized chips. Microsoft aims to lead the AI race against rivals like Alphabet and Apple. Adding to the mix, Reddit partnered with OpenAI to integrate user-generated content into ChatGPT, enhancing AI's understanding of current topics and aiding volunteer moderators. This partnership follows Reddit's monetization strategy after a similar deal with Google valued at $60 million.
AI Ethics: Scarlett Johansson and Safety Committee
However, as AI technology advances, ethical considerations become increasingly critical. Scarlett Johansson demanded OpenAI disclose how their AI voice assistant "Sky" was developed, claiming it sounds like her voice from the film "Her." Johansson's legal team has sought transparency, and OpenAI paused the use of "Sky," stating the voice was based on another actress. This controversy underscores the ethical challenges in AI replication.
In response to such concerns, OpenAI announced the training of a new AI model aimed at artificial general intelligence (AGI) and the formation of a safety committee to review security and ethical implications. The committee, including CEO Sam Altman, will conduct a 90-day review to address societal impacts and ethical considerations in AI development. These steps highlight the ongoing efforts to balance technological innovation with responsible development and use.
Sources
Wall Street Journal: OpenAI Brings Custom Tech to This Year's Met Gala Exhibition
NBC News: Indie Artist Washed Out Uses AI to Generate Full Music Video
CNBC: OpenAI Launches New AI Model and Desktop Version of ChatGPT
Ars Technica: OpenAI Will Use Reddit Posts to Train ChatGPT Under New Deal
NPR: OpenAI Pulls AI Voice that was Compared to Scarlett Johansson in the Movie "Her"
