OpenAI announced on Tuesday the establishment of a new committee dedicated to advising the company’s board on matters of safety and security. This move comes just weeks after the company dissolved its previous AI safety team.

According to a blog post by OpenAI, the newly formed committee will be spearheaded by CEO Sam Altman, along with Bret Taylor, the board chair, and board member Nicole Seligman. The creation of this committee follows significant changes within the company’s leadership and strategy concerning AI safety.

Earlier this month, Jan Leike, an OpenAI executive focused on safety, resigned from his position, citing insufficient investment in AI safety work and escalating tensions with the company’s leadership as his reasons. Leike’s departure highlighted growing concerns within the organization about its commitment to AI safety.

In addition to Leike’s exit, Ilya Sutskever, a prominent figure in OpenAI’s “super alignment” team, also left the company. The superalignment team was tasked with ensuring that AI development aligned with human needs and priorities. Sutskever had previously played a pivotal role in the unexpected removal of Sam Altman as CEO last year, a decision that was later reversed when Sutskever supported Altman’s return.

In response to these high-profile departures, OpenAI stated that dismantling the super alignment team and redistributing its members across the company would better facilitate the achievement of its super alignment objectives. An OpenAI spokesperson told CNN that this restructuring aimed to enhance the company’s focus on aligning AI development with its overarching goals.

In its blog post, OpenAI also revealed that it has started training a new AI model intended to succeed GPT-4, the current model powering ChatGPT. The development of this new model marks another step toward the company’s vision of achieving artificial general intelligence (AGI).

OpenAI expressed pride in developing and releasing models that lead the industry in both capability and safety. However, the company also welcomed robust debate at this critical juncture. The blog post emphasized the importance of ongoing evaluation and improvement of OpenAI’s safety protocols.

One of the initial tasks assigned to the new Safety and Security Committee will be to assess and refine OpenAI’s safety processes and safeguards over the next 90 days. At the end of this period, the committee will present their recommendations to the full board. Following the board’s review, OpenAI plans to publicly share an update on the adopted recommendations in a manner that maintains consistency with safety and security protocols.

This proactive approach reflects OpenAI’s commitment to addressing safety and security concerns amid the rapid advancement of AI technology. By establishing this committee and inviting open discourse, the company aims to reinforce its dedication to developing AI in a safe and responsible manner.

Some iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus owners may be eligible for a payout as part of a $35 million settlement.

Owners of iPhone 7 and iPhone 7 Plus devices who experienced audio chip issues may receive up to $349 in compensation as part of a 2019 lawsuit filed in the US District Court for the Northern District of California.

To qualify, users must have owned these models between September 16, 2016, and January 3, 2023, and either complained to Apple about issues such as FaceTime, the loudspeaker, Siri, or the voice memo app not working, or paid for a related repair.

Apple has denied that these devices had such issues and any allegations of wrongdoing, according to the Settlement Administration website. Apple did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The issue involved the audio chip, which manages sound output through speakers or headphones. In September 2016, Apple removed the headphone jack from the iPhone 7 models to improve sound quality, achieve a thinner design, and enhance water resistance.

Eligible users might receive an email or postcard about the settlement. The deadline to file a claim is June 3, and the final approval hearing will be held on July 18.

This isn’t the first lawsuit payout for iPhone 7 models. Apple customers who purchased the iPhone 6, 6 Plus, 6s, 6s Plus, 7, 7 Plus, or SE before December 21, 2017, were eligible for $25 as part of the company’s settlement of a $500 million class-action lawsuit that accused Apple of slowing down older devices with system upgrades, which in turn forced users to upgrade to the latest iPhone model.

Executives from major technology companies are expressing concerns that Europe’s newly proposed AI legislation might hinder innovation. The law, designed to regulate the development and deployment of artificial intelligence, aims to ensure ethical standards and protect consumer rights. However, industry leaders argue that the stringent regulations could slow down technological advancements and place European companies at a disadvantage compared to their global counterparts.

The AI Act, introduced by the European Commission, seeks to impose strict guidelines on the use of AI, particularly in high-risk applications. It includes provisions for transparency, accountability, and oversight, requiring companies to conduct rigorous assessments and provide detailed documentation of their AI systems. While the goal is to mitigate risks and prevent misuse, tech executives worry that the bureaucratic burden and compliance costs could be prohibitive, especially for smaller firms and startups.

Critics of the law contend that it might drive innovation outside Europe, as companies might prefer to develop and deploy AI technologies in regions with more flexible regulatory environments. They argue that a balanced approach is needed, one that safeguards public interest without stifling technological progress. The debate highlights the challenge of crafting policies that both foster innovation and ensure the ethical use of AI.

As the legislation moves through the European Parliament, tech industry representatives are calling for revisions that would reduce the regulatory burden while maintaining the law’s core protective measures. The outcome of this legislative process will significantly shape the future landscape of AI development in Europe and its global competitiveness in the tech sector.

In recent years, the intersection of artificial intelligence and entertainment has led to groundbreaking advancements in creating lifelike digital avatars of celebrities. However, this promising technology is not without its legal and ethical implications, as evidenced by the looming threat of a lawsuit from Scarlett Johansson against OpenAI.

The crux of the matter lies in OpenAI’s use of Johansson’s likeness without her consent. The organization, renowned for its cutting-edge AI research, developed an AI model capable of generating realistic images of individuals based on textual descriptions. In a demonstration of the model’s capabilities, OpenAI showcased images resembling Johansson, among other celebrities, without seeking permission from the actors themselves.

Johansson, a prominent Hollywood actress known for her roles in blockbuster films, including the Marvel Cinematic Universe, has long been protective of her image rights. This unauthorized use of her likeness has understandably raised concerns regarding privacy, intellectual property, and the potential for exploitation in the digital realm.

The legal landscape surrounding the use of celebrity likenesses in AI-generated content is complex and evolving. While existing laws offer some degree of protection, they may not adequately address the unique challenges posed by AI technology. Furthermore, the precedent set by this case could have far-reaching implications for the future of AI-driven content creation and the rights of individuals to control their image.

Beyond the legal ramifications, the dispute between OpenAI and Johansson underscores broader ethical considerations surrounding AI development. As AI systems become increasingly sophisticated in mimicking human behaviors and appearances, questions arise regarding consent, authenticity, and the potential for misuse. Striking a balance between technological innovation and ethical responsibility is imperative to ensure that AI serves the greater good without infringing on individual rights.

In response to the controversy, OpenAI has emphasized its commitment to responsible AI development and ethical guidelines. However, the looming specter of litigation serves as a sobering reminder of the complex ethical and legal challenges inherent in the intersection of AI and entertainment.

As the legal battle between OpenAI and Scarlett Johansson unfolds, it is poised to shape the future trajectory of AI-driven content creation and the rights of individuals in the digital age. The outcome of this case will undoubtedly reverberate throughout the technology, entertainment, and legal sectors, leaving a lasting impact on how we navigate the evolving landscape of AI and its implications for society.

Amazon’s cloud computing division, Amazon Web Services (AWS), is set for a significant leadership change. Adam Selipsky, the current CEO of AWS, will step down from his role next month, the company announced on Tuesday. Selipsky, who has been with AWS since 2005, took the helm in 2021 after former AWS CEO Andy Jassy was promoted to lead all of Amazon.

Matt Garman, currently the vice president of sales, marketing, and global services at AWS, will succeed Selipsky as CEO starting June 3.

The leadership of AWS is crucial for Amazon, as the cloud computing unit contributes nearly two-thirds of the company’s overall profits. With annual revenues exceeding $90 billion last year, AWS outpaces many standalone companies in size.

AWS is at a critical juncture with the rise of artificial intelligence. The company is rolling out new tools and capabilities to establish itself as the preferred computing provider for emerging technologies. However, AWS faces stiff competition from Google Cloud and Microsoft Azure.

Under Selipsky’s leadership, AWS has seen sales grow by more than 85%. Despite this growth, Amazon shares fell by over 1% following the announcement of his departure.

In an email to staff, Amazon CEO Andy Jassy explained that Selipsky’s tenure was always intended to be brief. Jassy noted that when he transitioned from AWS to lead Amazon, he recognized the need for strong leaders at AWS who could benefit from additional experience under an experienced CEO.

“When Adam and I discussed him taking the role in 2021, we agreed it would likely be for a few years, with a focus on preparing the next generation of leadership,” Jassy said. “Adam has skillfully led the business while developing his leadership team.”

Selipsky expressed gratitude for his time at AWS. “I’m humbled by the many customers who have said they wouldn’t be what they are without AWS, thankful to our many partners, and grateful to my passionate and innovative teammates. AWS will be in great hands with Matt and the incredible leadership team,” he shared in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

Matt Garman, who has been with Amazon since 2005, was long considered a top contender for the AWS CEO role. He started as an intern and later became one of AWS’s first product managers. Garman has since held various key positions, including general manager of AWS Compute Services, before moving to lead the sales division.

This leadership transition marks a new chapter for AWS as it continues to navigate a competitive landscape and rapidly evolving technological advancements.

Ghost Shark and Manta Ray might sound like characters from a future Marvel movie, but they represent a significant leap forward in Pacific naval defenses. These prototype uncrewed underwater vehicles (UUVs) were recently introduced by Australia and the United States, and they could revolutionize undersea warfare by enhancing power while minimizing the risks to human life.

Developed by Australia, Ghost Shark, and crafted by Northrop Grumman in the US, Manta Ray, significant advancements in military technology. The Ghost Shark prototype, “Alpha,” was co-developed by the Defence Science and Technology Group, Navy, and Anduril Australia. It offers stealthy, long-range autonomous capabilities for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike missions. According to the Australian Defense Ministry, the first production models are expected by the end of next year, though specific details remain classified.

In the United States, the Boeing-built Orca UUV and Northrop Grumman’s Manta Ray prototype showcase modular designs for varied payloads and efficient deployment. Aerial drones have become commonplace in warfare, and their maritime counterparts are set to follow. Drones have been extensively used by the US in conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan since the 1990s and have become key military hardware in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Kyiv’s naval surface drones have inflicted significant damage on Russia’s Black Sea Fleet.

However, controlling drones underwater presents unique challenges. Unlike aerial and surface drones that use satellites and radio waves, underwater drones face communication barriers due to water’s properties. A 2023 study published in the Swiss journal *Sensors* highlights that underwater communications require more energy and suffer significant data loss due to variables like water temperature, salinity, and depth. Makers of the new generation of military UUVs have not disclosed how they will overcome these challenges.

When Australia unveiled Ghost Shark, it called the prototypes “the most advanced undersea autonomous vehicles in the world.” These UUVs are designed to provide the Navy with stealthy, long-range capabilities for persistent intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and strike. This innovation marks a significant milestone in undersea defense technology.

Australian officials and those from manufacturer Anduril Australia have not shared specific details on Ghost Shark due to classification. However, they emphasized the speed of development from concept to prototype within two years. “Being ahead of schedule, on budget, it’s pretty unheard of,” said Shane Arnott, Anduril’s senior vice president for engineering. Australia’s chief defense scientist, Tanya Monro, stated that delivering the first Ghost Shark prototype ahead of schedule sets a new standard for rapid capability development.

Emma Salisbury, a fellow at the British think tank Council on Geostrategy, noted that Ghost Shark seems similar to the Orca extra-large UUV being developed in the US. Ukraine has used sea drones effectively against Russia’s Black Sea Fleet, with each drone carrying at least 250kg (500lb) of explosives. Salisbury suggested that these UUVs are likely intended for similar missions, focusing on intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and anti-submarine capabilities.

The US Navy describes the Boeing-built Orca UUV as a cutting-edge, autonomous, unmanned diesel-electric submarine with a modular payload section for various missions. The modular design allows the Orca to carry different weapons or specialized equipment for reconnaissance or intelligence gathering. The Pentagon plans to acquire five more UUVs, but no specific timetable has been provided. The Orca has been in development for over a decade, highlighting the contrast with the rapid progress of Australia’s Ghost Shark.

Chris Brose, Anduril’s chief strategy officer, stated that the company and Australia are proving that these capabilities can be developed much faster, cheaper, and more intelligently. Anduril Australia indicated that Ghost Shark, developed entirely domestically, would be available for export after joining the Australian naval fleet.

Meanwhile, the US continues to innovate with Northrop Grumman’s Manta Ray, which was tested off Southern California in February and March. The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) praised Manta Ray’s modularity, which allows payloads to be switched out depending on the mission. The Manta Ray can be broken down to fit into five standard shipping containers, transported to the deployment site, and reassembled in the field. This method saves internal energy for the mission instead of using it to reach the deployment site.

DARPA program manager Kyle Woerner highlighted the innovation in Manta Ray’s design, which began in 2020. Despite slower development compared to Ghost Shark, DARPA is working with the US Navy on the next steps for testing and transitioning the technology. China, identified by the US military as a primary threat in the Pacific, is also advancing in UUV development. Submarine expert H I Sutton suggests that Beijing has at least six extra-large UUVs in development based on open-source intelligence.

Besides Australia, the US, and China, other countries developing UUVs include Canada, France, India, Iran, Israel, North Korea, Norway, Russia, South Korea, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom. The rapid evolution of UUV technology underscores the strategic importance of undersea defenses in modern military operations. Ghost Shark and Manta Ray exemplify the cutting-edge advancements leading this transformative shift in naval warfare.

In recent months, Wall Street has witnessed a resurgence of interest in the virtual gaming platform, Roblox. While this may come as a surprise to some, there are several compelling reasons behind this renewed enthusiasm among investors.

Firstly, Roblox has demonstrated impressive growth potential. With its unique combination of gaming, social interaction, and user-generated content, the platform has captured the imaginations of millions of users worldwide. This exponential growth trajectory has not gone unnoticed by Wall Street, with analysts and investors alike eager to capitalize on Roblox’s promising future.

Secondly, Roblox’s innovative business model has garnered attention for its monetization strategies. Unlike traditional video game publishers that rely on upfront sales or subscription fees, Roblox operates on a freemium model, allowing users to play for free while offering optional in-game purchases. This approach has proven to be highly lucrative, with Roblox reporting robust revenue streams from virtual items, in-game currency, and developer payouts. Wall Street recognizes the potential of this business model to generate sustained revenue growth and profitability over the long term.

Lindsey Nicholson/UCG/Getty Images/File

Lastly, Roblox’s strategic partnerships and expansion efforts have bolstered investor confidence. The platform has forged collaborations with major brands, entertainment companies, and celebrities to create exclusive virtual experiences, further enhancing its appeal to users and investors alike. Additionally, Roblox has been actively expanding its presence in international markets, tapping into new audiences and revenue streams. These strategic initiatives signal Roblox’s commitment to continued growth and innovation, making it an attractive investment opportunity for Wall Street.

In conclusion, Wall Street’s renewed interest in Roblox can be attributed to its impressive growth potential, innovative business model, and strategic expansion efforts. As the platform continues to evolve and capture the hearts of users worldwide, investors are increasingly bullish on Roblox’s prospects for long-term success.

In March, the entrepreneurial vision of Sohail Prasad materialized into the Destiny Tech100 fund, a venture poised to capitalize on the allure of technology titans like Stripe, SpaceX, and OpenAI. This fund, designed to grant broader access to privately held companies’ shares, ignited hope among investors eager to claim a stake in Silicon Valley’s hottest prospects.

Yet, Destiny’s debut was swiftly shadowed by controversy. Denials from tech luminaries Stripe and Plaid regarding Destiny’s ownership of their shares rocked the nascent fund. Concurrently, detractors lambasted Destiny as “too good to be true,” while Robinhood, the popular stock trading app, hastily removed the fund from its offerings, citing an erroneous inclusion.

Sarah Blesener for The New York Times

Amidst the tumult, Prasad remained resolute, interpreting the uproar as emblematic of a cultural shift, with Destiny positioned as a vanguard of change.

These developments underscore a mounting tension surrounding the enigmatic domain of private company stocks, a realm witnessing an unprecedented surge in activity. Secondary market transactions, forecasted to soar to a staggering $64 billion this year—a 40% surge from the previous year—signal a profound evolution in investment dynamics.

As investor appetite swells, a proliferation of online platforms emerges, connecting sellers with eager buyers. Destiny, among the few options accessible to retail investors, stands as a beacon amid a landscape predominantly accessible to accredited investors.

Yet, amidst this fervor, challenges emerge. Many entrenched start-ups, accustomed to tightly controlled ownership structures, now confront mounting pressure as a broader spectrum of investors clamor for shares. Compliance with intricate securities laws becomes increasingly convoluted, raising multifaceted concerns for all stakeholders involved.

In this ever-evolving panorama, a poignant question resonates: should the riches and risks of Silicon Valley’s entrepreneurial endeavors be democratized? As tensions escalate and uncertainty looms, the future of private company stock trading hangs in a precarious balance, poised at the intersection of aspiration and apprehension.

In the heart of Silicon Valley, a legal showdown is underway that could reshape the landscape of the tech industry. The trial, often dubbed as the strongest challenge to Big Tech’s power in the United States, revolves around none other than Google, the search engine giant that has become synonymous with internet navigation.

At its core, the trial questions whether Google, with its unparalleled dominance in the search engine market, has engaged in anti-competitive practices that stifle innovation and harm consumers. The outcome of this trial could have far-reaching implications not only for Google but for the entire tech ecosystem.

For years, critics have raised concerns about Google’s business practices, particularly its control over online advertising and search results. Allegations range from favoring its services in search results to striking deals that effectively block out competitors. The trial represents a culmination of these concerns, bringing them to the forefront of public and regulatory scrutiny.

One of the key arguments put forth by the prosecution is that Google’s dominance in search gives it an unfair advantage in other markets, such as online advertising, where it holds a commanding position. By allegedly manipulating search results to promote its products and services, Google is accused of stifling competition and limiting consumer choice.

On the other hand, Google contends that its search engine algorithms prioritize user experience and relevance, rather than promoting its interests. The company argues that competition in the digital sphere is fierce and that its success is a result of delivering what users want.

Regardless of the outcome, the Google trial marks a significant moment in the broader conversation about Big Tech regulation. It comes at a time when governments around the world are increasingly scrutinizing the power wielded by tech giants and exploring ways to curb their influence.

Beyond Google, the outcome of this trial could set a precedent for future antitrust actions against other tech giants like Amazon, Facebook, and Apple, which have also faced scrutiny over their market dominance.

As the trial unfolds, all eyes are on the courtroom, where the fate of Big Tech’s power hangs in the balance. Whatever the verdict, one thing is certain: the Google trial will leave a lasting impact on the future of the tech industry and the regulation of its most powerful players.