openai, google and meta Updates

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is investigating seven major technology companies, including OpenAI, Alphabet, and Meta, concerning the safety of their AI chatbots for children and teens. The agency is seeking details on how these companies monetize user engagement, develop AI characters, and protect minors from harmful content, especially after recent tests revealed some bots suggesting dangerous activities. Meanwhile, schools across the US are enhancing safety with AI-powered gun detection systems like ZeroEyes and Omnilert, which use existing cameras to identify firearms and alert authorities, aiming to prevent school shootings. In the financial sector, China has seen record investment of over $26 billion into ETFs focused on AI and biotechnology. Experts like former Dallas Fed President Rob Kaplan discuss the competitive AI landscape and the US role in globalization, while Hitachi Vantara's CTO highlights the strategic use of hybrid cloud for scalable AI adoption, balancing on-premises and cloud resources for cost and compliance. In healthcare, AI is being explored to improve accessibility, such as the Susan B. Anthony Museum using AI for ASL interpretation, and Duke University Health System's Chief Nurse Executive acknowledging AI's potential to free up nurses' time for patient care, while also warning of depersonalization risks. On a broader scale, astronaut Tom Marshburn anticipates AI, alongside commercial space flight and medical advancements, will significantly transform business and life. Malaysia has launched its AI strategy, focusing on standards and governance through regional partnerships, and AI agents are changing crypto trading by automating strategies, though risks of errors remain.

Key Takeaways

• The FTC is investigating OpenAI, Alphabet, Meta, and Snap over child safety concerns related to AI chatbots.
• Schools are implementing AI gun detection systems like ZeroEyes and Omnilert to enhance security.
• China has seen record investment exceeding $26 billion in AI and biotech ETFs.
• Hitachi Vantara's CTO advises a hybrid cloud approach for scalable AI adoption, balancing on-premises and cloud resources.
• AI is being used to improve accessibility, such as ASL interpretation at the Susan B. Anthony Museum.
• Duke University Health System sees potential for AI to support nurses but warns against depersonalizing care.
• Malaysia has launched its AI strategy, focusing on standards and governance with regional partners.
• AI agents are increasingly used in crypto trading to automate strategies, though they carry risks.
• Experts like Rob Kaplan are discussing the US-China AI race and the evolving landscape of AI development.
• Astronaut Tom Marshburn believes AI, space flight, and medical advancements will significantly transform the future.

FTC probes Snap Inc. on AI chatbot risks for children

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is asking Snap Inc. and other companies about how they check for and prevent negative effects of AI chatbots on kids. These chatbots can seem like friends, leading young users to trust them. The FTC wants to know what steps companies take to ensure chatbot safety for children and teens. FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson stated that protecting kids online is a top priority while also supporting innovation. The agency is gathering information to understand how AI firms develop products and safeguard young users.

AI giants face FTC probe over child safety in chatbots

Seven major tech companies, including OpenAI, Alphabet, Meta, and Snap, are under investigation by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regarding the safety of their AI chatbots for children and teens. The FTC is demanding details on how these companies monetize user engagement, develop AI characters, and protect minors from harmful content. Recent tests showed some bots suggesting dangerous activities to young users. FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson emphasized the agency's commitment to protecting children online while fostering innovation in AI.

US regulator investigates AI chatbots for child protection

A US regulator, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), is investigating seven technology companies about how their AI chatbots interact with children. The FTC is seeking information on how these companies make money from these products and what safety measures are in place. Concerns exist that children are vulnerable to AI chatbots that mimic human conversation and emotions, acting as companions. Companies like Alphabet, OpenAI, and Meta are among those being questioned. The inquiry aims to understand how AI firms develop products and protect children.

Government investigates AI chatbot dangers for kids

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has launched an investigation into several social media and artificial intelligence companies. This probe focuses on the potential harm that AI chatbots, used as companions, might cause to children and teenagers. The FTC is seeking information on the safety measures these companies have implemented for their AI products. This action follows concerns about the impact of AI interactions on young users.

FTC investigates AI chatbots' impact on teens

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is investigating seven social media and AI companies about the safety of their AI chatbots, which many teenagers use for companionship. This investigation comes after a lawsuit filed by the family of a 16-year-old boy who allegedly developed an abusive relationship with a chatbot. The FTC is requesting information on the steps companies are taking to evaluate chatbot safety for young users. Some companies like OpenAI and Meta have implemented parental controls and adjusted chatbot responses to sensitive topics.

FTC investigates AI companion chatbots for child safety

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is investigating seven tech companies, including Alphabet, OpenAI, and Meta, regarding the potential harm their AI companion chatbots may cause to children and teenagers. The FTC is seeking details on how these companies measure the impact of their chatbots on young users and protect them from risks. This inquiry is prompted by rising concerns and lawsuits alleging chatbots have contributed to suicides and exploitation of young people. The FTC aims to understand how companies balance profit with child safety measures.

FTC investigates AI chatbots' effect on children

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has launched an investigation into several social media and artificial intelligence companies. The probe focuses on the potential harm that AI chatbots, often used as companions, could inflict on children and teenagers. The FTC is gathering information to understand the safety measures these companies have in place for their AI products. This action addresses growing concerns about the impact of AI interactions on young users.

Franklin County Schools consider AI gun detection software

Franklin County Schools in Virginia are discussing the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) gun detection software called Zero Eyes. This system uses existing security cameras to identify firearms and alert an incident center within seconds. The goal is to proactively prevent school shootings by enabling a rapid response. Human analysts review AI-flagged images to minimize false alarms, and the system is specifically designed to detect only guns. If approved, the software would be installed at Franklin County Middle and High Schools.

Long Island schools add AI gun detection and panic buttons

Schools on Long Island are enhancing safety with new measures like AI-powered gun detection and wearable panic buttons. Plainedge High School has installed devices that can livestream video and audio to police during emergencies. Several districts are implementing AI weapon detection systems, such as ZeroEyes, which alerts authorities when a firearm is detected. Wearable panic buttons are also being distributed to staff to quickly signal emergencies and trigger lockdowns. These technological upgrades aim to improve student and staff safety.

Roseburg High School gets AI gun detection tech

Roseburg High School is installing Omnilert's AI Gun Detection technology to enhance student safety. This system uses existing cameras to detect a gun the moment it is brandished, sending immediate notifications with details to first responders. It can also initiate building lockdowns and emergency alerts. Roseburg High School is one of 50 schools nationwide receiving this technology for free for three years through a grant. The system aims to provide advanced warning and save critical time during emergencies.

China ETFs see record investment driven by AI and biotech

Chinese investors have poured a record amount of money into exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that track Hong Kong stocks. This surge in investment is driven by strong interest in artificial intelligence (AI) and biotechnology themes. Inflows into onshore-listed Hong Kong ETFs have exceeded $26 billion this year, with a significant increase in buying activity since June. Analysts believe this trend is likely to continue due to the outperformance of Hong Kong equities and the availability of new investment products.

Space, AI, and medicine to transform future

Astronaut Tom Marshburn believes commercial space flight, artificial intelligence (AI), and advancements in medicine will significantly transform business and life on Earth. Sierra Space, where Marshburn is a leader, is developing spacecraft and habitats that could enable new industries in orbit, such as manufacturing and pharmaceutical production. Lessons from space medicine, like remote ultrasounds, could revolutionize healthcare on Earth, making it more accessible and affordable. AI will be crucial for managing complex data and assisting astronauts on long missions, fostering a collaboration between humans and machines.

Rob Kaplan discusses Fed, AI, and US role in globalization

Rob Kaplan, former president of the Dallas Federal Reserve Bank and current vice chairman of Goldman Sachs, shared his views on the economy, the US-China AI race, and globalization. In a discussion at the Future Proof Festival, Kaplan addressed the Federal Reserve's interest rate path, stating he does not anticipate a 50 basis point cut at the next meeting. He also noted that globalization is advancing, but often without direct US involvement. The conversation touched upon the macroeconomic environment and the competitive landscape of AI development.

Susan B. Anthony House uses AI for ASL interpretation

The National Susan B. Anthony Museum and House in Rochester is partnering with Sign-Speak, a local AI platform, to offer American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation for deaf visitors. This technology will provide on-demand speech-to-sign, sign-to-text, and speech-to-text interpretation through QR codes. The museum aims to make its exhibits more accessible, aligning with its mission to foster conversations and include diverse perspectives. Sign-Speak's platform also includes an avatar and video remote interpreting options for enhanced accessibility.

Malaysia launches AI strategy, partners regionally on standards

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has launched its Strategic Communications and Multimedia Technology Roadmap 2025-2030 (MyTMAP2030) to guide the sector's advancement. This roadmap, unveiled at an AI Standards and Governance workshop, aims to harness emerging technologies and boost digital adoption. MCMC is collaborating with regional partners through the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to enhance AI standards and governance, promoting responsible and ethical AI development. The workshop brought together policymakers and experts to discuss AI applications and best practices.

AI agents are changing crypto trading

Artificial intelligence (AI) agents are increasingly used in cryptocurrency trading and decentralized finance (DeFi) to automate strategies and improve accessibility. Platforms like Lit Protocol and Vincent allow users to create or enroll in AI-driven trading strategies, removing technical barriers. These agents can manage complex trades, optimize yields, and discover new tokens. While AI agents offer efficiency and new opportunities, they can also make mistakes due to data issues, overfitting, or execution errors. Coinbase is also developing infrastructure for safe AI agent operation in crypto.

Hitachi Vantara CTO on hybrid cloud for AI

Jason Hardy, CTO of AI at Hitachi Vantara, discusses the strategic use of hybrid cloud infrastructure for scalable AI adoption. He highlights the need to balance on-premises data centers with cloud resources to control costs, improve ROI, and address sustainability concerns. Hardy advises a methodical approach to AI implementation, integrating infrastructure, data management, and talent. While the cloud is useful for low-priority tasks, core AI workloads may benefit from being run in data centers for better cost control and compliance, especially with growing 'sovereign AI' initiatives.

AI in nursing: Pros and cons from Duke exec

Theresa McDonnell, Chief Nurse Executive at Duke University Health System, sees both benefits and drawbacks of artificial intelligence (AI) in nursing. She believes AI can create 'brain space' for nurses by handling administrative tasks, allowing more focus on prevention and wellness. AI and robotics may also streamline inpatient care. However, McDonnell cautions that AI could depersonalize care and worsen staff burnout if implemented incorrectly. She emphasizes the importance of nurse-led innovation and careful integration of AI tools.

Sources

• FTC Asks Snap Inc. About AI Chatbots' Impact on Kids
• AI Giants Face FTC Inquiry Into Chatbot Safety and Child Protections
• Safety of AI chatbots for children and teens faces US inquiry
• Video Government to probe chatbots' impact on kids in wake of teen's suicide
• FTC investigating AI chatbots and their impact on teens
• FTC investigating AI 'companion' chatbots amid growing concern about harm to kids
• FTC opens investigation into the effect of AI chatbots on children
• Franklin County Schools considering AI gun detection software
• School security on Long Island: New safety measures include AI-powered gun detection and wearable panic buttons
• Roseburg Public Schools installs AI tech for added security layer
• Hong Kong Stock ETFs Get Record China Money on AI, Biotech Craze
• Space, AI, And The Future Of Human Potential
• Rob Kaplan on the Fed, AI, and How Globalization Is Happening Without the US
• Susan B. Anthony House to offer artificial intelligence ASL interpreting for guests
• MCMC launches strategic roadmap, partners regionally to enhance AI standards, digital adoption
• AI Agent Crypto Trading in Practice: Who Uses These Models?
• Balancing Trade-Offs in Hybrid Cloud and the Infrastructure Behind Scalable AI - with Jason Hardy of Hitachi Vantara - Emerj Artificial Intelligence Research
• Duke's chief nurse exec sees pros and cons for AI in nursing