Adobe’s AI-Powered Audio Generation for Video Enhancement
Adobe unveiled Project Super Sonic at its MAX conference, showcasing an experimental tool that uses AI to generate sound effects and background audio for videos. The project offers three modes: text-to-audio, object recognition-based audio generation, and voice-imitation sound creation. Users can click on video elements to prompt sound effects or record themselves imitating desired sounds, which the AI then refines. Justin Salamon, head of Sound Design AI at Adobe, emphasized the tool’s focus on user control and creative expression. While Project Super Sonic is currently a demo, its potential integration into Adobe’s Creative Suite could significantly streamline the video sound design process for creators.
Google Enhances Shopping Experience with AI-Powered Recommendations
Google is revolutionizing its Shopping tab by incorporating AI technology to provide users with more personalized and informative product recommendations. The new features include AI-generated briefs offering context-specific shopping advice, such as considerations for buying winter jackets in Seattle. The platform will also display relevant products with explanations of their suitability, along with categorized options to streamline the search process. Additionally, Google has introduced a scrollable feed of personalized product recommendations and related videos, aiming to keep users engaged with content tailored to their interests. These enhancements leverage Google’s vast product listings and Gemini AI models to create a more intuitive and efficient shopping experience.
Anthropic Unveils Enhanced AI Safety Measures with Updated Scaling Policy
Anthropic has announced a significant update to its Responsible Scaling Policy, introducing new safeguards for AI development. The revised policy establishes Capability Thresholds to identify when AI models require additional safety measures, particularly in high-risk areas like bioweapons creation and autonomous AI research. A new Responsible Scaling Officer role will oversee compliance with these standards. The policy introduces AI Safety Levels, ranging from current standards to stricter protections for riskier models. Anthropic aims to set an industry benchmark for AI safety, encouraging a “race to the top” in responsible development. This proactive approach addresses growing concerns about AI risks and could influence future regulatory frameworks in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence.
New York Times Challenges AI Firm Perplexity Over Content Usage
The New York Times has issued a cease and desist letter to Perplexity, demanding the AI company stop using its content without permission. The Times argues that Perplexity’s use of its journalism in AI-generated summaries violates copyright laws. This action follows similar disputes with other AI firms, including a lawsuit against OpenAI. Perplexity’s CEO has expressed interest in collaborating with the Times, while the company has recently introduced a revenue-sharing scheme for publishers.
U.S. Considers Extending AI Chip Export Restrictions to Gulf Nations
The Biden administration is reportedly contemplating limits on the sale of advanced AI chips from Nvidia and AMD to Persian Gulf countries, citing national security concerns. This potential move follows existing restrictions on chip exports to China and other nations. The decision reflects growing U.S. apprehension about the Gulf region’s increasing influence in the AI sector, particularly as countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE make substantial investments in AI technology and infrastructure.
OutRival Launches AI-Powered Customer Service Platform
Career Karma founders Ruben Harris and Timur Meyster have unveiled OutRival, a new venture offering businesses the ability to create and manage AI-powered customer service agents. The platform aims to enhance personalized customer interactions while integrating with existing systems. OutRival distinguishes itself by supporting rather than replacing human teams, and has already been tested in college admissions processes. The company plans to expand into various industries, leveraging insights gained from Career Karma’s operations. OutRival’s launch comes amid significant venture capital interest in AI startups, with the sector attracting substantial investment. The founders emphasize the importance of maintaining a human touch in AI-driven customer experiences.
Concourse Introduces AI-Driven Financial Task Automation Platform
Concourse, a new startup founded by former fintech professionals Matthieu Hafemeister and Ted Michaels, is developing an AI-powered platform to automate financial tasks for businesses. The system connects to existing financial infrastructure, allowing finance teams to retrieve and analyze data, generate charts, and ask complex questions. Concourse aims to differentiate itself by executing multi-step financial workflows and proactively surfacing insights. While AI in finance is not new, Concourse faces challenges in demonstrating ROI and addressing concerns about AI accuracy and data privacy. Despite these hurdles, the company has secured funding and early customers, with plans to expand its team and capabilities before a broader launch next year.
Amplitude Acquires Command AI to Enhance User Engagement Capabilities
Amplitude, a digital analytics software company, has acquired Command AI, a startup specializing in app user engagement tools. The acquisition aims to integrate Command AI’s technology into Amplitude’s platform, offering personalized user assistance through features like in-product tours, onboarding experiences, and smart triggers for updates and offers. Command AI’s team, including co-founders James Evans and Vinay Ayyala, will join Amplitude in key roles. The merger is expected to create a tighter feedback loop between understanding and influencing user behavior. This strategic move marks Amplitude’s third acquisition, reinforcing its position in the digital analytics market and expanding its product offerings to its extensive customer base.
