5 Recent Developments in AI You Should Know About: AI-powered Learning, AI Surveillance System, and More

As the weekend approaches, the field of artificial intelligence remains active. Today, there have been both notable advancements and instances of misuse. Firstly, two high school students from Karnataka have released a research paper exploring the potential of AI in preparing students for a future where this technology will be significant. Additionally, two UK councils are facing criticism for utilizing AI to analyze CCTV footage, despite its positive impact on reducing crime rates for residents. These stories and more are covered in today’s AI roundup, providing a closer examination of the latest developments.

Karnataka students lead AI research

Navhya Gakhar and Shraavi Chindak, two Class 11 students from Karnataka, have been leading the AI research, according to a report by AllaboutBelagaum. With the mentorship of Chetana Sarang, founder and CEO of Dattamsh Edtech, the duo has also gotten their research published. The topic of the study was how high schools can help prepare students for an artificial intelligence-driven world.

Their findings, presented in the peer-reviewed International Journal of Scientific Research in Engineering and Management, offer new perspectives on the existing landscape of AI education in high schools and point to areas that require improvement.

UK councils admit to using AI for supervisory analysis

According to a BBC report, Kensington and Chelsea Council has acknowledged the use of US surveillance software at two properties, Trellick Tower and Markland House in North Kensington, to improve security for residents. The AI-powered technology analyzes CCTV footage and has already helped police catch a resident allegedly carrying a machete. However, the treatment of tenants as suspects has raised concerns. The council-approved US surveillance package, Fusus, was revealed after a report by OpenDemocracy highlighted its unique use among UK councils.

A startup focused on artificial intelligence raises $50 million

According to a report in The Information magazine, Kleiner Perkins is taking the lead in Together’s funding round, which addresses a growing need for specialized semiconductors in the AI space. A company that would be worth at least $50 million in equity financing would be worth more than $300 million before the investment. This agreement highlights the continued demand for AI server chips designed by Nvidia to create and run large-scale language models (LLMs) that support products such as ChatGPT and GitHub Copilot. Together, headquartered in San Francisco, provides companies with access to these AI chips via the cloud and software that streamlines the use of open source LLMs. Nvidia, a leading backer of companies that utilize or provide access to graphics processing unit (GPU) chips, has also expressed interest in participating in the funding round.

AI projects supporting small businesses in the UK

The UK government is giving an additional £37 million to artificial intelligence projects spanning various sectors including fashion, agriculture and firefighting, according to a government release. This investment comes as Science and Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan highlighted the positive impact of AI ahead of the country’s upcoming AI Security Summit.

Research groups and companies of all sizes in fast-growing sectors from transport and agriculture to construction and the creative industries have been invited to apply for a share of the £32m funding pool. The funding aims to promote the safe and responsible development of artificial intelligence initiatives, support the wider sector, support the workforce and promote the Prime Minister’s goal of economic growth. A further £5m has been earmarked for feasibility studies of 100 projects involving small businesses across the UK.

AI Weapons Screening Claims

US weapons screening company Evolv Technologies Holdings, known for its AI-powered detectors used in schools and stadiums, has come under scrutiny from federal investigators, according to a Bloomberg report.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is investigating whether Evolv’s artificial intelligence systems accurately identify guns passing through its screening devices, according to sources familiar with the probe. The company acknowledged in its filing that the FTC has requested information about certain aspects of its marketing practices. Concerns about the company’s claims have sent its shares down 20% this week, affecting its $582 million valuation.