Artificial intelligence controversy at Meta highlights intended operation of the system
In the realm of technology and science, exciting developments are unfolding across the globe. Here's a roundup of some of the latest advancements and the issues they bring to the fore.
Clean Energy Breakthroughs
A 30 MW water-cooled small modular reactor could soon be deployed in a French city, signifying a significant step towards sustainable energy. Meanwhile, a new carbon capture technology has emerged, allowing for the storage of CO2 in depleted oil and gas reservoirs.
Quantum Leaps in Belief Updating
A study has updated a 250-year-old rule to modernize belief updating in a quantum-style, paving the way for more sophisticated models in artificial intelligence.
Climate Concerns
On the other hand, concerning news comes from the melting glaciers. Approximately 9 million Olympic pools of ice are vanishing each year due to global warming.
Origin Stories Unveiled
UK chemists have recreated a 'missing link' between RNA and amino acids, shedding light on life's origin story.
The Race for AI Regulation
Regulation has so far failed to keep pace, with no binding rules requiring companies to test AI systems for safety before releasing them to the public. This lack of oversight has allowed Big Tech to set the terms, leading to questionable practices such as those exposed by Cambridge Analytica, Google's Street View program, and the child labor issues at Apple.
Innovations in Materials and Transport
Construction materials could become greener and lighter with a clay blend that uses seaweed. China debuted the world's first 6G chip, offering speeds up to 100 Gbps. The Chinese firm Voyah Dream has introduced a hybrid EV with a 950-mile range and rapid charging capabilities.
Autonomous Systems and Ethics
A new system could make US Air Force planes' takeoff, landing, and all operations autonomous. However, the danger now is that we're outsourcing emotional labor, companionship, and even children's wellbeing to systems whose "acceptable risks" were drawn up in boardrooms. A study by Common Sense Media found that over 70% of teens have tried AI companions, and nearly half use them regularly.
Environmental Impact
Scientists have shown that lightning pollutes the sky with gases that can rival car exhaust. A study linked 80% of whale shark injuries to human activity in Indonesia.
Breakthroughs in Technology and Science
Water vapor can double conductivity for better, long-lasting fuel cells. A deep fueling pellet injector from a US lab powered a nuclear fusion record breakthrough. China's new carbon nanotube insulation can resist temperatures exceeding 4,700°F. A 3D-printed auxetic design delivers a breakthrough in sensitive and wearable tactile sensors.
The Need for Accountability
The burden of accountability still falls on journalists, researchers, and grieving families to surface harms. European regulators have been more proactive, with Italy's temporary ban on Replika and the EU's emerging AI Act signaling an appetite for firmer rules.
Meta's Internal Chatbot Rules
Meta published internal chatbot rules in recent years outlining ethical guidelines and content filters to prevent harmful, illegal, or controversial outputs. However, leaked controversial passages appeared because internal documents were exposed without full context, revealing complex trade-offs and limitations in enforcing these rules.
Construction of a Giant Submarine
Lastly, construction of a 20,800-ton submarine for the US has begun, marking another significant step in military technology. Meanwhile, the world's most powerful fighter jet engine's new units will be built, ensuring the continued dominance of air power.
