OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, Meta Llama Fine-Tuning, Google Deal

Mira Murati, formerly of OpenAI, has launched her startup Thinking Machines Lab with its first product, Tinker. This API allows developers to fine-tune large language models like Meta's Llama and Alibaba's Qwen-235B-A22B using methods like LoRa to reduce costs. While the API is in private beta and will soon offer usage-based pricing, some observers anticipated a more groundbreaking initial offering from the well-funded company. Meanwhile, the broader AI landscape sees significant activity: UnitedHealth Group has appointed Duke AI expert Michael Pencina as its chief AI scientist, signaling a commitment to AI in healthcare. This aligns with AI's growing role in oncology, where conferences like the FGB-FM-ESO Joint International Conference 2025 in Milan will focus on AI's impact on diagnosis and treatment, alongside new drugs. Accenture and Walmart are prioritizing AI skills for their workforces, with Accenture investing in reskilling and Walmart aiming to transition employees without headcount reduction. TELUS Digital has introduced Fuel iX Fortify, an automated red-teaming solution to secure generative AI applications against adversarial attacks. In San Francisco, AI's influence is palpable, shaping the city's atmosphere and marketing. Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions (AITX) is deploying its AI-powered security solutions at auction sites. Reddit is facing investor scrutiny over its strategy to use user content for AI training, particularly its reported $60 million annual deal with Google, raising concerns about community dilution. Separately, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman expressed his eagerness for AI to eventually replace him as CEO, humorously stating his fallback plan is to become a farmer.

Key Takeaways

• Mira Murati's Thinking Machines Lab has launched Tinker, an API for fine-tuning large language models like Meta's Llama.
• Tinker utilizes methods like LoRa to reduce costs associated with model fine-tuning.
• UnitedHealth Group has appointed Michael Pencina, a Duke AI expert, as its chief AI scientist.
• AI is increasingly integrated into cancer care, with upcoming conferences focusing on its role in diagnosis and treatment.
• Accenture and Walmart are investing in upskilling their workforces for an AI-driven future.
• TELUS Digital has released Fuel iX Fortify, a solution to enhance the security of generative AI applications.
• Reddit is facing investor concerns regarding its strategy of using user-generated content for AI training, including a reported $60 million deal with Google.
• OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has stated he anticipates AI eventually replacing him as CEO.
• AITX is deploying its AI-powered security solutions at auction sites through its subsidiary RAD.
• San Francisco's environment and marketing reflect a growing influence of artificial intelligence.

Mira Murati's AI Lab launches Tinker API for model fine-tuning

Mira Murati's startup, Thinking Machines Lab, has released its first product called Tinker. Tinker is an API that allows researchers and developers to fine-tune large language models like Alibaba's Qwen-235B-A22B and Meta's Llama-3.2-1B. The API uses a method called LoRa to lower costs by sharing computing power. It is currently in private beta and will offer usage-based pricing soon. A companion tool, the Tinker Cookbook, provides examples and shortcuts for customization.

Mira Murati's AI startup Thinking Machines Lab releases Tinker API

Mira Murati, former OpenAI CTO, has launched her startup Thinking Machines Lab's first product, Tinker. This API helps AI developers and researchers fine-tune large language models for specific tasks. While useful, some observers expected a more groundbreaking initial offering from the well-funded startup. Tinker is currently in private beta and will transition to usage-based pricing. The company aims to make AI more understandable and customizable for everyone.

Mira Murati: From OpenAI CTO to AI startup founder

Mira Murati, a 36-year-old tech leader, founded Thinking Machines Lab after her time as CTO at OpenAI. Her startup recently launched its first product, Tinker, an API for fine-tuning AI models, which has attracted significant investment. Murati, originally from Albania, studied mathematics and mechanical engineering before a career in tech, including roles at Tesla and Leap Motion. She played a key role in developing technologies like ChatGPT at OpenAI and has been recognized for her contributions to AI, though some of her past statements have drawn controversy.

AI enhances cancer care with better data and decision support

Experts believe artificial intelligence is improving cancer care by helping manage data and support clinical decisions, rather than replacing doctors. AI tools can streamline care coordination and optimize processes like precision oncology and patient scheduling. Integrating these tools requires collaboration between developers and oncologists to overcome challenges in fragmented healthcare systems. Practical improvements, such as digitizing health information, are already reducing delays and personalizing patient care.

Innovation in Oncology 2025 conference to focus on new drugs and AI

The FGB-FM-ESO Joint International Conference 2025 in Milan on November 12-13 will explore innovations in oncology, including new drugs and the role of artificial intelligence. The event will cover advancements in drug development, AI's impact on diagnosis and treatment, and the 10th anniversary of Gianni Bonadonna's passing with a prize for a young investigator. Sessions will discuss antibody-drug conjugates, immunotherapy, AI in diagnostics, and drug development strategies. The conference offers CME credits and has limited spots available.

Accenture and Walmart prioritize AI skills for workforce

Accenture and Walmart are focusing on upskilling their workforces for an AI-driven future, with Accenture emphasizing reskilling as a primary strategy. Accenture plans to invest in its AI and data workforce, having already trained over half a million employees. Walmart is also preparing for AI's impact on jobs, aiming to transition employees without reducing overall headcount. Both companies are adopting transparent communication to manage these workforce changes.

TELUS Digital launches Fuel iX Fortify for AI security

TELUS Digital has launched Fuel iX Fortify, an automated red-teaming solution designed to protect generative AI applications. This tool continuously generates large-scale adversarial attacks to identify weaknesses in AI systems before they can be exploited. Fuel iX Fortify allows organizations to test their AI assistants and chatbots quickly, enhancing trust and compliance. It aims to bridge the skills gap in AI security and safeguard company reputations.

San Francisco's changing landscape shaped by AI

San Francisco is undergoing a transformation influenced by artificial intelligence, evident in its advertising and evolving atmosphere. The city feels both familiar and different, with increased activity and a noticeable presence of AI-related marketing on public transport and in stations. While some aspects of the city remain unchanged, the pervasive AI messaging suggests a shift towards a tech-centric future. This change is occurring amidst broader societal shifts and ongoing debates about the city's identity and future.

UnitedHealth Group hires Duke AI expert Michael Pencina

UnitedHealth Group has appointed Michael Pencina, a leading AI expert from Duke University, as its chief AI scientist. Pencina, who previously served as chief data scientist for Duke Health, has advocated for increased oversight of AI tools in healthcare. He co-founded the Coalition for Health AI, which aims to establish standards for testing and managing AI in the medical field. His move to UnitedHealth signifies the company's commitment to advancing its AI initiatives.

AITX deploys RIO security solutions at auction sites

Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions (AITX), through its subsidiary Robotic Assistance Devices (RAD), has deployed its RIO 360 and RIO Mini security solutions at a national heavy equipment auction operator. These AI-powered systems, utilizing RAD's SARA platform, aim to enhance security and are expected to expand to more locations. This deployment highlights the growing demand for AITX's security solutions and its potential for recurring revenue growth in new industries.

Investors question Reddit's AI data strategy

Investors are expressing concerns about Reddit's strategy to use its user-generated content for AI training, following a reported $60 million annual deal with Google. While this offers a new revenue stream, shareholders worry about diluting the platform's unique community and its long-term value. Critics suggest this is a risky approach to navigating the AI transition. Reddit faces the challenge of balancing AI innovation with preserving its user base and core advertising business.

Sam Altman would become a farmer if AI replaced him as CEO

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman stated he looks forward to the day AI can replace him as CEO, expressing enthusiasm for such a transition. He revealed his backup plan is to become a farmer, a lifestyle he enjoys and has previously engaged in. Altman, who owns a farm and other properties, believes AI could be a better leader for OpenAI. He shared this during an interview discussing the future of AI and its impact on leadership roles.

Sources

• Mira Murati’s AI Lab Releases Its First Product Called Tinker
• Mira Murati’s Thinking Machines Lab Unveils New AI Tinker Product Which Is Useful But Not A Big-Time Blockbuster
• Meet Mira Murati, the 36-year-old tech prodigy who shot to fame at OpenAI and now runs a startup that's a poaching target for Mark Zuckerberg
• Is AI Augmentation Driving Smarter, Better Cancer Care?
• Innovation in Oncology 2025: New Drugs and the Role of Artificial Intelligence in Cancer Care - European School of Oncology
• Accenture and Walmart are developing workforce strategies with AI in mind
• TELUS Digital Unveils Fuel iX Fortify for AI Security
• S.F. and its mind-boggling AI ads remind us that the city is changing, again
• UnitedHealth taps Duke scientist to lead AI efforts
• Artificial Intelligence Technology Solutions Deploys RIO Security Solutions
• Investors question Reddit's AI gamble
• Billionaire tech CEO says he'd become a farmer if AI replaced him