Former Yahoo CEO Marissa Mayer Launches AI Assistant Dazzle

The entertainment industry is abuzz with the emergence of Tilly Norwood, an AI-generated actress created by Eline Van der Velden's studio, Xicoia. Van der Velden aims for Norwood to achieve stardom, envisioning her as the 'next Scarlett Johansson,' and has stated that audiences care more about the story than whether a star has a pulse. This development has ignited a significant debate and backlash from Hollywood actors, including Melissa Barrera, Mara Wilson, Lukas Gage, and Whoopi Goldberg, who fear AI could replace human performers and impact jobs. Van der Velden defends Norwood as a 'creative work,' a 'piece of art,' and a new tool for storytelling, akin to animation or CGI, rather than a direct replacement for human actors. She believes AI characters should be appreciated as their own genre and judged on their own merits. Meanwhile, in the manufacturing sector, a survey indicates a strong embrace of AI for sales modernization, with 91% of manufacturers implementing or planning AI-powered sales automation, prioritizing AI pricing tools and considering AI sales agents. By 2027, nearly half of these manufacturers expect AI-optimized product listings to significantly boost customer acquisition. In cybersecurity, professionals are increasingly using AI to combat rising threats and understaffing, leveraging it for threat detection and task automation, though human oversight remains critical. Venture capitalists are also investing in AI to automate labor-intensive services, aiming for software-like profit margins, though challenges like 'workslop' are emerging. Bank of America has integrated AI-driven capital markets insights into its CashPro app, featuring an AI algorithm called Trade Evaluation Driver (TED) to aid debt issuance decisions. Former Yahoo CEO Marissa Mayer is closing her startup Sunshine and selling its assets to her new AI venture, Dazzle, which aims to build an AI personal assistant. Northrop Grumman is testing AI software from six partners on its autonomous jet for enhanced training and decision-making, with full autonomous control anticipated by year-end. Separately, an Arizona State University researcher is developing AI tools designed to find a 'golden mean' by learning from shared human values, aiming for controllable and understandable AI systems that reduce bias. Agentic AI, systems capable of autonomous decision-making and action, are being explored for their efficiency benefits but require careful management of risks like bias and data loss, with emphasis on governance and human oversight. Embodied AI is also seen as crucial for the advancement of Advanced Air Mobility, promising safer and more efficient operations for autonomous aircraft like eVTOLs and drones.

Key Takeaways

• The AI-generated actress Tilly Norwood is sparking debate in Hollywood, with her creator Eline Van der Velden defending her as a 'creative work' and a new storytelling tool, not a replacement for human actors.
• Talent agencies are reportedly interested in signing Tilly Norwood, with her creator aiming for her to become a major star, drawing protests from actors concerned about job displacement.
• 91% of manufacturers are adopting or planning AI-powered sales automation, with AI pricing tools and AI sales agents being key priorities for modernization.
• By 2027, nearly half of manufacturers expect AI-optimized product listings to significantly enhance customer acquisition.
• Cybersecurity professionals are increasingly using AI to manage growing threats and understaffing, utilizing it for threat detection and task automation.
• Venture capitalists are investing in AI to automate services businesses, aiming for high profit margins, but face challenges like AI-generated content requiring significant human correction ('workslop').
• Bank of America's CashPro app now features AI-driven Capital Markets Insights, including an AI algorithm called Trade Evaluation Driver (TED), to assist clients with debt issuance decisions.
• Former Yahoo CEO Marissa Mayer is closing her startup Sunshine and selling its assets to her new AI startup, Dazzle, which will focus on building an AI personal assistant.
• Northrop Grumman is testing AI software from six partners on its autonomous jet to enhance training, coordination, and decision-making for manned and unmanned aircraft.
• An Arizona State University researcher is developing AI tools to find a 'golden mean' by learning from shared human values, aiming for controllable and understandable AI systems that reduce bias.

AI actress creator defends creation as art, not replacement

Eline Van der Velden, creator of the AI actress Tilly Norwood, has responded to backlash from actors and the public. She stated that Tilly is a piece of art and a creative work, not a replacement for human actors. Van der Velden sees AI as a new tool for storytelling, similar to animation or CGI, and believes human performance will always retain its unique value. She hopes AI characters can be appreciated as their own genre. The controversy arose after news that talent agents were interested in signing Tilly Norwood.

Hollywood stars protest AI actress Tilly Norwood

The creator of AI actress Tilly Norwood, Eline Van der Velden, defended her creation against backlash from Hollywood actors like Melissa Barrera and Lukas Gage. Van der Velden stated Tilly is a piece of art and a new tool, not a replacement for human actors. She believes AI offers new storytelling possibilities without diminishing human performance. The controversy sparked after news that talent agents were interested in representing the AI character, with some actors calling for a boycott.

AI actress Tilly Norwood creator responds to backlash

Eline Van der Velden, creator of AI actress Tilly Norwood, addressed public anger, stating her creation is a piece of art, not a human replacement. She views AI as a new tool for storytelling, similar to animation or CGI, and believes it won't diminish human acting. Van der Velden wants AI characters to be judged on their own merits. The controversy began when talent agencies showed interest in representing Tilly Norwood, leading to strong reactions from actors.

AI actress Tilly Norwood sparks debate in Hollywood

Tilly Norwood, an AI-generated actress, has drawn significant attention and backlash from the entertainment industry. Her creator, Eline Van der Velden, stated that Norwood is a work of art and not a replacement for human actors. The controversy intensified when talent agencies expressed interest in signing Norwood. Actors like Mara Wilson and Nicholas Alexander Chavez have voiced concerns, questioning the impact on human actors and the ethics of using AI-generated personas.

Hollywood stars protest AI actress Tilly Norwood

The entertainment industry is reacting strongly to news that talent agencies are interested in signing Tilly Norwood, an AI-generated actress. Stars like Melissa Barrera and Mara Wilson have voiced their opposition, with Wilson questioning the use of composite faces from real women. Lukas Gage and Lucy Hale also shared their reactions. Eline Van der Velden, Norwood's creator, maintains that AI is a tool for creativity and not a replacement for human actors, though she aims for Norwood to be a major star.

AI actress Tilly Norwood aims for stardom, sparks debate

Talent agencies are reportedly considering signing Tilly Norwood, an AI-generated actress created by Eline Van der Velden's AI studio Xicoia. Van der Velden aims for Norwood to be the next Scarlett Johansson, stating that audiences care about the story, not if the star has a pulse. This development has sparked significant debate and backlash from Hollywood actors, who fear AI could replace human performers. Van der Velden defends Norwood as a creative work and a new tool, not a replacement.

AI actress Tilly Norwood debuts, ignites Hollywood debate

Tilly Norwood, an AI-generated actress, has debuted and is attracting interest from Hollywood talent agencies, with her creators aiming for her to be the 'next Scarlett Johansson.' This has sparked a heated debate in the industry, with actors like Melissa Barrera publicly protesting and calling for boycotts. Eline Van der Velden, Norwood's creator, defends her as a creative work and a new tool for storytelling, not a replacement for human actors.

AI actress Tilly Norwood sparks Hollywood backlash

The AI-generated actress Tilly Norwood has generated significant buzz and concern in Hollywood, with talent agencies reportedly interested in signing her. Norwood first appeared in a short AI-created sketch and has since gained attention at the Zurich Film Festival. Her creator, Eline Van der Velden, stated her ambition for Norwood to be the 'next Scarlett Johansson.' However, actors like Melissa Barrera and Mara Wilson have voiced strong opposition, raising concerns about AI replacing human actors and the ethics of using composite faces.

Hollywood reacts to AI actress Tilly Norwood controversy

Reports of talent agencies considering signing AI actress Tilly Norwood have sparked outrage among Hollywood figures. Melissa Barrera, Mara Wilson, and Natasha Lyonne are among those who have publicly criticized the move, with some calling for boycotts. Eline Van der Velden, Norwood's creator, defends her as a 'creative work' and a 'piece of art,' not a replacement for human actors. Van der Velden believes AI offers new storytelling possibilities and should be viewed as a tool.

AI actress Tilly Norwood nears agency deal amid protests

Hollywood agents are reportedly in talks to sign Tilly Norwood, an AI-generated actress from Eline Van der Velden's studio Xicoia. This potential deal has drawn protests from actors like Melissa Barrera and Mara Wilson, who question the impact on human performers. Van der Velden clarified that Norwood is a 'creative work' and 'piece of art,' not a replacement for humans, and sees AI as a new tool for storytelling. Norwood previously appeared in the comedy sketch 'AI Commissioner.'

AI actress Tilly Norwood creator responds to backlash

Eline Van der Velden, creator of AI actress Tilly Norwood, has responded to criticism by stating that Tilly is a 'creative work' and 'piece of art,' not a replacement for human actors. She views AI as a new tool for storytelling, similar to animation or CGI. The controversy began when talent agents showed interest in signing Norwood, leading to strong reactions from actors like Melissa Barrera and Lukas Gage. Van der Velden aims for Tilly to be the next Scarlett Johansson and believes AI characters should be judged on their own merits.

AI actress Tilly Norwood creator defends her as art

The creator of AI actress Tilly Norwood, Eline Van der Velden, has defended her creation as a 'piece of art' following significant backlash from the creative community. Van der Velden stated that Norwood is not a replacement for human actors but a new tool for storytelling. Despite the controversy, talent agents are reportedly interested in signing Norwood. Actors like Melissa Barrera and Mara Wilson have expressed concerns about AI impacting human jobs and the ethics of using composite faces.

Will AI actress Tilly Norwood be the next Scarlett Johansson?

Tilly Norwood, an AI-generated actress, has sparked controversy in Hollywood as talent agents express interest in signing her. Her creator, Eline van der Velden, aims for Norwood to be the 'next Scarlett Johansson,' viewing AI as a tool for storytelling. However, actors like Melissa Barrera have protested, fearing AI will replace human performers. Van der Velden insists Norwood is a creative work and not a job threat, but the debate continues over AI's role in entertainment.

Whoopi Goldberg questions AI actress Tilly Norwood

Whoopi Goldberg expressed skepticism about AI actress Tilly Norwood's ability to replace human actors, stating that human faces and bodies move differently. She noted that AI creations can be an unfair advantage, combining traits from multiple actors. Goldberg believes current AI technology is not yet seamless but may improve. The creator of Tilly Norwood, Eline Van der Velden, maintains that AI is a tool and not a replacement for human performance, aiming for Norwood to be a major star.

AI actress Tilly Norwood creator defends her role

Eline Van der Velden, creator of AI actress Tilly Norwood, has responded to backlash by stating that Tilly is a 'creative work' and 'piece of art,' not a replacement for human actors. She views AI as a new tool for storytelling, similar to animation or CGI. The controversy arose after talent agents expressed interest in signing Norwood, leading to protests from actors like Melissa Barrera and Lukas Gage. Van der Velden aims for Tilly to be the next Scarlett Johansson and believes AI characters should be judged separately from human actors.

AI actress Tilly Norwood creator defends criticism

Eline Van der Velden, creator of AI actress Tilly Norwood, defended her work after facing criticism for seeking talent agency representation for the AI character. Van der Velden stated that Tilly is a 'creative work' and 'piece of art,' not a replacement for human actors, and sees AI as a new tool for storytelling. Actors like Melissa Barrera and Mara Wilson have voiced concerns about AI impacting human jobs. Van der Velden believes AI offers fresh possibilities without diminishing human performance.

Manufacturers embrace AI for sales modernization

A new survey shows that 91% of manufacturers are adopting or planning to implement AI-powered sales automation. AI-driven pricing tools are a top priority for streamlining sales. The survey of 200 decision-makers also found that 4 out of 10 manufacturers are considering AI sales agents for modernization. By 2027, nearly half expect AI-optimized product listings to significantly boost customer acquisition. Aleran Software sponsored the survey, highlighting the demand for practical AI applications that show clear revenue impact.

Manufacturers adopt AI for sales modernization

A survey indicates that 91% of manufacturers are implementing or planning AI-powered sales automation, with AI pricing tools being a top priority. The study of 200 decision-makers found that 40% are interested in AI sales agents for modernizing their sales processes. By 2027, nearly half of manufacturers anticipate AI-optimized product listings will be key to customer acquisition. Aleran Software sponsored the survey, emphasizing the need for practical AI solutions that deliver tangible revenue benefits.

Manufacturers modernize sales with AI tools

A recent survey reveals that 91% of manufacturers are adopting or planning to use AI for sales automation, with AI-driven pricing tools being a major focus. The survey of 200 decision-makers also found that 40% are prioritizing AI sales agents for modernization. By 2027, almost half of manufacturers expect AI-optimized product listings to drive customer acquisition. Aleran Software's survey highlights manufacturers' interest in practical AI solutions for improving sales processes and revenue.

Agentic AI: Benefits, risks, and safe implementation

Agentic AI, systems that can make decisions and act autonomously, offer significant benefits like increased efficiency and accuracy. However, risks such as over-reliance, data loss, and bias must be managed. Diana Kelley, CISO at Noma Security, advises organizations to implement agentic AI safely by establishing governance frameworks, conducting inventories, and weaving AI awareness into policies. She stresses the importance of human oversight and collaboration to ensure AI systems operate responsibly and ethically.

Agentic AI needs balance between autonomy and accountability

Agentic AI, which allows systems to make decisions and act autonomously, offers potential for increased efficiency and cost reduction. However, experts emphasize the need to balance this autonomy with accountability. Organizations must establish clear explanations for AI decisions, implement strong governance, and maintain human oversight for audits and overrides. Combining large language models with traditional AI tools and ensuring reliability, privacy, and security are crucial for successful and trustworthy agentic AI implementation.

Embodied AI advances Advanced Air Mobility

Embodied AI, which involves robots that can perceive, decide, and act in real-world environments, is crucial for the development of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM). Autonomous capabilities in AAM, including eVTOLs and drones, promise safer and more efficient operations for tasks like air travel and infrastructure inspection. Responsible implementation of embodied AI is essential to address the challenges and risks associated with AAM, ensuring safety, regulatory compliance, and public trust.

Cybersecurity pros use AI amid rising threats

Cybersecurity professionals are facing increased stress due to the growing complexity and frequency of cyberattacks. A survey by ISACA found that two-thirds of experts feel their roles are more stressful than five years ago, with understaffing being a major issue. To combat this, many are turning to AI for defense. AI helps with threat detection, automating tasks, and improving incident response, though human oversight is still crucial to avoid bias and errors. The use of AI in cybersecurity operations is expanding rapidly.

VCs aim to transform services with AI

Venture capitalists are investing heavily in using AI to automate labor-intensive services businesses, aiming for software-like profit margins. Firms like General Catalyst are acquiring established companies, implementing AI to automate tasks, and then rolling up more businesses. While this strategy shows promise, early signs suggest challenges like 'workslop'—AI-generated content that requires significant human correction—may make the transformation harder than anticipated. Technical expertise in AI is crucial for successful implementation.

BofA adds AI capital markets insights to CashPro app

Bank of America has launched Capital Markets Insights on its CashPro app, offering clients AI-driven data on the Investment Grade Capital Markets. The feature includes an AI algorithm called Trade Evaluation Driver (TED) to assess the macro backdrop for debt issuance decisions. This aims to provide C-suite and treasury teams with consolidated capital markets knowledge directly on their mobile devices, simplifying decision-making by aggregating data previously found in disparate sources.

Marissa Mayer closes Sunshine, sells assets to new AI startup Dazzle

Former Yahoo CEO Marissa Mayer is closing her consumer software startup Sunshine and selling its assets to her new AI startup, Dazzle. Dazzle aims to build an AI personal assistant, and all Sunshine employees will transition to the new company. Sunshine, founded in 2018, had limited success with its contact management app and later added AI features without significant adoption. Most of Sunshine's investors have approved the deal.

Northrop Grumman partners test AI software on autonomous jet

Northrop Grumman's Beacon program is testing AI software from six partner companies on its Model 437 Vanguard jet, which is modified for autonomous flight. The partners' software includes augmented reality training systems, tactical combat algorithms, and mission planning tools. Companies like Red 6, Autonodyne, and Shield AI are contributing modules designed to enhance training, coordination, and decision-making for manned and unmanned aircraft, with full autonomous control expected by year-end.

ASU researcher develops AI that finds the 'golden mean'

An Arizona State University researcher, Hasan Davulcu, is developing AI tools that find a 'golden mean' by learning from shared human values. These systems aim to be controllable, programmable, and understandable, avoiding the extremes often found in large language models trained on internet data. Davulcu's innovations include methods to make AI decision-making transparent and editable, and tools to detect stances and map values in conversations, reducing bias and promoting civil discourse.

Sources

• Creator Of Controversial AI Actress Tilly Norwood Puts Out Statement Following Backlash: “She Is Not A Replacement For A Human Being”
• AI Actress Tilly Norwood Draws Backlash From Melissa Barrera, Lukas Gage and More Hollywood Names as Creator Defends Her as a ‘New Tool’ and ‘Not a Replacement for a Human Being’
• Creator of AI Actress Tilly Norwood Responds to Backlash: “She Is Not a Replacement for a Human Being”
• Tilly Norwood drama explained: What to know about AI actress backlash
• Stars protest after AI actress gets agency interest: ‘What about living young women?’
• Actors Could Soon Compete With New AI-Generated Star
• This Emerging Tech Studio Just Debuted AI Actress Tilly Norwood, Naming Her the "Next Scarlett Johansson"
• ‘The next Scarlett Johansson?’ AI-generated actress Tilly Norwood sparks Hollywood ba
• Hollywood celebs react to AI 'actress' Tilly Norwood controversy—AI persona responds
• Who Is Tilly Norwood? AI-Generated Actress That Hollywood Agents Want To Sign
• Creators of AI Actress Tilly Norwood Respond to Backlash, Create New Talent Agency
• Creator says AI actress is 'piece of art' after backlash
• Will an AI Star Really Become ‘the Next Scarlett Johansson’?
• Whoopi Goldberg Takes Aim at AI Actress Tilly Norwood: ‘You Can Always Tell Them From’ Real Actors. ‘Our Faces and Bodies Move Differently’
• Creator behind AI actress responds to backlash: ‘she is not a replacement for a human being’
• AI actress Tilly Norwood’s creator defends recent criticism
• Manufacturers Moving to Modernize Sales With AI, Survey Shows
• Manufacturers Moving to Modernize Sales With AI, Survey Shows
• Manufacturers Moving to Modernize Sales With AI, Survey Shows
• Agentic AI: Benefits, Risks and Best Practices for Implementation
• Agentic AI: Balancing autonomy and accountability
• Pushing boundaries: Advanced air mobility and embodied AI
• Cybersecurity professionals under pressure turn to AI amid rising threats
• The AI services transformation may be harder than VCs think
• BofA Unveils AI-Driven Capital Markets Insights on CashPro® App
• Marissa Mayer will close her old AI startup, sell assets to her new AI startup
• Northrop Grumman’s partners tout AI software, from AR training to mission planning
• AI and the new 'golden rule': Finding the middle ground