Amazon has initiated its efforts by offering complimentary training and fellowships this fortnight. Recently, Amazon introduced AI Ready, a program designed to educate two million individuals in AI skills by 2025.
In a blog post, the e-commerce giant stated, “AI stands out as the most groundbreaking technology of our era. To unlock AI’s full potential in tackling the world’s most challenging issues, we must democratize AI knowledge for all those eager to learn.”
Amazon has unveiled eight foundational AI courses spanning various topics such as task coordination, rapid architecture, and language model development. While some modules cater to non-technical audiences interested in AI applications, others are tailored for developers seeking to delve deeper into machine learning.
Furthermore, Amazon has committed over $12 million to sponsor the generative AI course offered by Code and Udacity, online learning platforms, for more than 50,000 high school and university students. Additionally, they are collaborating with com to create a tutorial on crafting AI-generated music videos for students.
Amazon has announced its support for AI Ready to empower current employees in honing their skills and to equip students for the future.
Was Q* Responsible for Altman’s Dismissal?
Chances are slim, despite reports from various sources, including Reuters, suggesting that the OpenAI board was alerted about a breakthrough in artificial intelligence weeks before Altman’s sudden removal. The OpenAI model, referred to as Q* or Q Star, was identified as a significant advancement towards Artificial General Intelligence (AGI).
While some view it as a potential existential threat to humanity, businesses like OpenAI continue to pursue AGI as a goal. An undisclosed source within OpenAI raised hopes for the model’s success by claiming that Q* could potentially solve specific scientific challenges.
Contrary to speculations, another anonymous source clarified that the board had received prior warnings, and Altman’s termination was unrelated to any research progress.
Despite the internal turmoil at OpenAI, we may find solace in the prospect of welcoming our AI overlords, regardless of the advancements they may achieve in algebraic capabilities.
Putin’s Lag in AI Development
Vladimir Putin, the Russian leader, has acknowledged Moscow’s interest in AI while cautioning against Western dominance in the field.
Russia faces challenges in acquiring necessary technology for AI research due to sanctions imposed post the Ukraine invasion and subsequent conflicts. The country’s language and culture often take a back seat in the development of foundational AI models. Putin expressed concerns over the prevalent Western bias in AI technologies.
Putin emphasized the need to counter the dominance of foreign networks and methods, highlighting the dangers they pose. In a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Putin envisioned China and Russia leading the global AI race.
Recent reports hinted at Chinese computers being integrated into Russian systems, signaling Russia’s efforts to bridge the technological gap caused by sanctions.
AI-Generated Content in Spanish
A fashion company has turned to AI to create a stylish persona without the high costs associated with human influencers. Tired of dealing with influencers or sharing profits, the company introduced “Aitana,” a digitally created 25-year-old Spanish woman from Barcelona, earning over €1,000 per advertisement. Aitana represents a sportswear brand, with her persona and content decisions orchestrated by the company’s team and designer, Rubén Cruz.
However, AI’s limitations are evident in Aitana’s digital representation, particularly in the uncanny valley effect that becomes noticeable upon closer scrutiny.
Critics argue that AI-driven models set unattainable beauty standards for real individuals, benefiting companies seeking cost-effective and idealized digital representations. Ethical concerns persist regarding the portrayal of Aitana’s “life” and the implications of preconceived notions embedded in the digital persona.
In response to Aitana’s success, Cruz and the team introduced Maia, a new virtual model, continuing the trend of utilizing AI in the fashion industry.
