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Glean’s $4.6B Valuation, Humanoid Robots, and EU’s AI Act Debate
Stefan
November 01, 2024
Hi there,
Another edition of the Daily AI Brief is ready for you! Today we delve into enterprise search, humanoid robotics, and major AI funding updates. We'll also explore the latest on AI regulation, sentient AI, and a new wave of AI hardware advancements.
Let's dive into these stories right away:
Glean, valued at $4.6 billion, raised $260 million in a Series E round to advance its AI-powered enterprise search tool. The platform integrates with multiple applications to enhance productivity for companies like Reddit, Pinterest, and Sony. Read more
Boston Dynamics showcased its Atlas robot performing tasks autonomously in a mock factory setting, marking a step towards fully autonomous manufacturing robots. Atlas identifies and moves engine covers with machine learning and sensors. Read more
Intel’s AI-chip sales have missed targets due to software issues and slower-than-expected adoption of its Gaudi chips. CEO Pat Gelsinger acknowledged the challenges amid fierce competition with Nvidia. Read more
Cisco launched AI-focused servers, switches, and preconfigured systems aimed at simplifying AI deployment. The offerings feature Nvidia GPUs, AMD CPUs, and 800G switches for low-latency connections. Read more
Persana AI raised $2.3 million to expand its AI-powered sales intelligence platform, aiming to enhance data entry and prospecting processes with automation. The startup is backed by Y Combinator, Race Capital, and Stage 2 Capital. Read more
European creators and rights holders are calling on the EU to enforce the AI Act, which regulates AI based on risk. They seek stronger protections against AI companies using content without authorization. Read more
Buddy.ai, an AI-driven language-learning app for children, raised $11 million to expand its reach. With over 22 million students globally, Buddy.ai helps children learn English through a conversational character tutor. Read more
The IMF’s AI Preparedness Index ranks Singapore as the top country for AI adoption. Key factors include infrastructure, human capital, and legal frameworks, with Northwestern Europe also ranking high. Read more
Recent chatbot-linked deaths have prompted calls to redefine “high-risk” AI, with governments like Australia and the EU considering regulations to address these concerns. Read more
Boston Dynamics’ Spot can now “play fetch” through an MIT breakthrough. The robot uses Clio, an AI model allowing it to map scenes and complete tasks like retrieving objects. Read more
Quantum computing company D-Wave was designated as an “Awardable” vendor by the US Department of Defense, allowing DoD customers to access its quantum optimization technology. Read more
After a 40% profit drop, Samsung is focusing on high-quality AI chips, expecting HBM3E memory chip sales to increase. The company aims to solidify partnerships with Nvidia and expand customer reach. Read more
Researchers in animal consciousness call for ethical guidelines for AI that could become sentient. They emphasize preparing for a future where AI may possess elements of consciousness. Read more
Ukraine has deployed AI-enhanced systems for drones to autonomously locate and strike targets, enhancing their effectiveness even in jamming conditions. This advancement marks a pivotal shift in Ukraine’s tech-driven defense efforts. Read more
Japan's Sakura Internet is scaling up its AI compute facilities with plans to acquire 1 million GPUs by 2027. Backed by government support, this expansion aims to serve local companies, universities, and researchers. Read more
Siemens has acquired Altair Engineering for over $10 billion, strengthening its position in AI-driven industrial simulation. This move underscores Siemens’ commitment to advancing AI-powered design and analytics. Read more
Amazon’s next-gen AI upgrade for Alexa has been postponed to 2025 due to technical challenges. This delay leaves Alexa struggling to keep pace with newer AI-powered competitors. Read more
Andre Shojaie emphasizes that AI systems should incorporate uncertainty to adapt to real-world situations better. He argues that this flexibility could lead to more innovative and adaptable AI solutions. Read more
Dotdash Meredith CEO Neil Vogel discusses strategies to counter AI-related challenges with Google, focusing on content licensing, adtech acquisitions, and direct distribution. Read more
Blendbox is an AI art tool that gives control back to artists, and "rethinks how AI art should work"
Blendbox offers artists advanced control over their AI creations with features like Modular Image Control and Real-Time Adjustments. The tool aims to empower artists without relying heavily on text prompts. Read more
Meta's focus on AI has led to strong quarterly results, despite significant losses from Reality Labs. The success of Meta AI and the upcoming Llama 4 models marks a shift from the metaverse to AI. Read more
Saudi Arabia’s NEOM Oxagon is set to establish a one-gigawatt AI data center. The project is part of a broader vision to support a growing tech community and foster AI innovation. Read more
That's it for today. If you liked this edition of the Daily AI Brief, please consider sharing it with friends and coworkers!