5 AI developments you might have overlooked today: US limits AI chip exports to China, US Congress prohibits Microsoft’s Copilot, and more
The United States tightens controls on the export of AI chips to China; US lawmakers prohibit Microsoft’s AI Copilot for use by staff; CPI(M) unveils AI anchor ‘Samata’ for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections; New York City to test AI gun scanners in the subway; These are just a few of the stories in today’s news roundup. Let’s dive in.
1. The US is stepping up restrictions on AI chip exports to China
The Biden administration is tightening AI chip export rules to China to prevent Beijing from accessing the advanced technology for national security reasons. The updated regulations, which span 166 pages, now extend the restrictions to laptops containing such chips. According to a Reuters report, the Commerce Department plans ongoing revisions to strengthen measures against technology shipments to China.
2. US Congress bans staff use of Microsoft’s AI Copilot
Axios reports that the US House of Representatives is banning congressional staff from using Microsoft’s Copilot AI assistant, citing cybersecurity risks. Microsoft plans to develop artificial intelligence tools that meet federal security standards. Congressional officials are reviewing the implementation of artificial intelligence in federal agencies to ensure privacy and fairness. Lawmakers have proposed banning AI-generated content in political ads, Reuters reports.
3. CPI(M) introduces AI anchor ‘Samata’ for upcoming Lok Sabha elections
Ahead of 2024 Lok Sabha elections, CPI(M) unveils AI anchor named ‘Samata’. While the party embraces technology for campaigning, the BJP and TMC criticize the CPI(M)’s historical stand against mechanization in West Bengal. The CPI(M) clarifies that they support technology but advocate its equitable social distribution, citing Marx’s view of automation, according to a report in The Indian Express.
4. NYC is piloting AI gun scanners on the subway
New York City plans to place AI-equipped gun scanners in subway stations to improve security. Mayor Eric Adams emphasizes subway security and plans to implement the scanners after a 90-day waiting period. The initiative includes more mental health measures. According to a report by The Guardian, selected scanners, such as Evolvi’s scanners, use advanced sensors and artificial intelligence to detect hidden weapons.
5. Google DeepMind CEO Demis Hassabis Knighted for AI contributions
Demis Hassabis, CEO of Google’s artificial intelligence division DeepMind, receives a knighthood in the UK for his contributions to artificial intelligence. Ian Hogarth and Matt Clifford were also honored for their AI work. Hassabis, a multidisciplinary prodigy, founded DeepMind in 2010 and led pioneering AI development, including winning the Go world champion, Techcrunch reported.
