Explore this week’s key developments in artificial intelligence through our latest digest. Featured are Google’s upgraded Chrome with Gemini-powered features, the detailed AI-centric agenda of TechCrunch Disrupt, the invitation to apply for the Llama 3.1 Impact Grants, and the unveiling of Runway’s faster and more affordable AI video model. Read on for an in-depth look at these exciting innovations.
Google Brings Gemini-Powered Features to Chrome Desktop
Google is taking a significant leap in enhancing user experience with its latest introduction of Gemini-powered features for Chrome’s desktop version. Rolling out globally, this update brings several new functionalities, including Google Lens for desktop, tab comparison for shopping, and natural language integration for search history.
Google Lens on Desktop
After years of success on mobile, Google Lens is finally making its way to the desktop. Accessible via the address bar or the three-dot menu, users can now select parts of a webpage and ask more detailed questions to get specific search results. For instance, clicking on an image of a pair of shoes can trigger a multi-search to find similar items in various colours or brands. This feature enhances shopping experiences and provides useful insights, like identifying the type of flower in a photo or understanding a complex scientific diagram.
Tab Compare for Shopping
Another exciting addition is the Tab Compare feature, designed to streamline online shopping. Chrome will soon offer AI-powered summaries of similar items you might compare across different tabs. This means that if you’re searching for a new laptop, Chrome will collate product specs, features, prices, and ratings in one place, making it easier to make informed decisions. Imagine comparing three different coffee makers and having all the details neatly summarized for you.
Natural Language Search History
One of the standout features in this update is the ability to search your browsing history using natural language queries. Initially available to U.S. users, this opt-in feature allows you to recall past web pages easily. For example, you can ask, “What was that recipe site I visited last month?” and Chrome will use a combination of URL, title, and page contents to return the correct results. Notably, Google has assured users that this data will not be used to train Gemini and that information from incognito sessions will remain private.
Announcing the Agenda for the AI Stage at TechCrunch Disrupt 2024
TechCrunch Disrupt 2024 has added a dedicated AI Stage, presented by Google Cloud, to its lineup. This stage will feature a deep dive into all things artificial intelligence, joining the existing Fintech, SaaS, and Space stages. The AI Stage promises a day full of insights and innovations on Wednesday, October 30. Here’s a sneak peek at the agenda for the AI Stage.
From Search Engines to Knowledge Engines: Perplexity’s Rush Toward an AI-Curated Web
Speaker: Aravind Srinivas (Perplexity)
Perplexity’s AI-powered search engine aims to revolutionize web interaction and knowledge management. CEO Aravind Srinivas will discuss the company’s bold vision and the challenges of reshaping search technology.
How Generative AI Is Flooding the Web with Disinformation
Speakers: Pamela San Martin (Oversight Board), Imran Ahmed (CCDH), and others to be announced
This session will feature experts discussing the current landscape of AI-generated disinformation and strategies to combat this growing threat.
Are “Open” AI Models Really Better?
Speakers: Ali Farhadi (Allen Institute for Artificial Intelligence), Irene Solaiman (Hugging Face), and others to be announced
This panel will explore the benefits and drawbacks of open versus closed AI models, highlighting the nuances of open-model licenses and their implications for the industry.
Navigating AI’s Legal and Ethical Minefield
Speakers: Sarah Myers West (AI Now), Jingna Zhang (Cara), Ben Zhao (University of Chicago)
The rapid advancement of AI technology has sparked new ethical dilemmas and legal challenges. This session will bring together AI ethics, copyright law, and industry regulations experts to discuss the complex issues facing AI companies today.
But Is It Art? Generative AI’s Evolving Role in Music and Video Production
Speakers: Mikey Shulman (Suno), Amit Jain (Luma AI), and others to be announced
This panel will explore the market demand for AI-generated content and its impact on traditional artists, discussing ways to balance innovation with artistic integrity.
Call for Applications: Llama 3.1 Impact Grants
The latest initiative in a series of investments supporting innovative uses of AI, the Llama 3.1 Impact Grants, is now accepting applications. This program aims to leverage the potential of Llama 3.1 to address social challenges and promote economic and social progress globally.
The Llama 3.1 Impact Grants will award up to USD 2 million to selected projects. Eligible organizations are invited to submit proposals using Llama 3.1’s new features and capabilities to address social challenges in economic development, science, innovation, and public service. Successful applicants can receive up to USD 500,000, with recipients announced early next year.
Since the launch of the inaugural Llama Impact Grants in October 2023, significant real-world applications of Llama have emerged in education, entertainment, and the medical field. The program received over 800 applications from over 90 countries, with 20 finalists advancing.
Apply Now
Applications are open until November 22, 2024. For more information and to apply, visit the Llama 3.1 Impact Grants application page.
Runway Unveils Gen-3 Alpha Turbo: Faster and More Affordable AI Video Generation
Runway has introduced its latest innovation, the Gen-3 Alpha Turbo, an enhanced version of its AI video model that significantly accelerates video production speeds while reducing costs.
Features of Gen-3 Alpha Turbo
Increased Speed
The Gen-3 Alpha Turbo can generate videos seven times faster than its predecessor, enabling the production of a 10-second video in just 11 seconds. This enhancement allows for almost real-time video generation, opening up new possibilities for users across various sectors.
Reduced Cost
With lower pricing, the Turbo model makes high-quality AI-generated videos more accessible to a broader range of users. It is expected to cost around seven credits per second of video, potentially dropping as low as five credits, compared to 10 credits for the previous Gen-3 Alpha model.
Broad Application Support
Alongside its speed and cost-efficiency, Gen-3 Alpha Turbo continues to support the recently introduced image-to-video feature. Runway is also updating its mobile app to support this feature, enhancing users’ flexibility.
Controversies and Ethical Practices
Amidst its technological advancements, Runway has been scrutinized for how it sources training data, particularly regarding allegations of scraping copyrighted YouTube videos. While Runway has not officially responded to these claims, the conversation around ethical AI training practices continues to grow, highlighted by calls from industry advocates like Ed Newton-Rex for more transparency.
Weekly Tech Highlight: Writer’s Comprehensive AI Platform
Building a custom AI stack can be a complex and costly endeavour. Writer, the tool in the spotlight this week, simplifies this by providing an integrated platform that abstracts away the complexity, allowing businesses to focus on developing AI-driven workflows rather than managing infrastructure. The platform includes critical components such as Palmyra LLMs, Knowledge Graph, AI guardrails, and AI Studio, ensuring robust and secure AI deployment.
Knowledge Graph
– Graph-based Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) system
– Anchors generative AI in company data
– Provides higher accuracy and reduces the risk of hallucinations compared to vector retrieval methods
– Enables businesses to analyze data, surface insights, and build expert assistants tailored to specific use cases
Rapid Deployment of Custom AI Applications
– Empowers employees across various departments
– Allows for the creation of digital assistants, content generation tools, summarization aids, and data analysis applications
– Enhances productivity and responsiveness to business needs
Versatility Across Business Functions
– Caters to various business functions such as support, operations, IT, sales, and marketing
– Enables quick deployment of AI solutions
– Helps businesses keep pace with evolving demands and drive efficiency across the organization
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