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IBM Commits To Train 2 Million in Artificial Intelligence in Three Years

IBM Commits To Train 2 Million in Artificial Intelligence in Three Years, With a Focus on Underrepresented Communities

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IBM today declared an initiative to teach two million students in artificial intelligence by the end of the year 2026, having a concentration on neglected areas, to help reduce the worldwide artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities imbalance. To accomplish this objective on a worldwide basis, IBM is offering new generative AI courses via IBM SkillsBuild, extending AI education partnerships with institutions across the world, and working with collaborators to provide AI training to adults worldwide. This will build upon IBM’s current initiatives and platforms for career development to provide improved availability for technical positions and in-demand AI education.

IBM Commits To Train 2 Million in Artificial Intelligence in Three Years
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The latest global research by the IBM Institute of Business Value found that CEOs believe that the implementation of artificial intelligence and automation will necessitate the reskilling of forty percent of their employees throughout the next three years, primarily those working in entry-level roles. This serves as another evidence that generative AI is generating a need for new positions and expertise.

“AI skills will be essential to tomorrow’s workforce,” said Justina Nixon-Saintil, IBM Vice President & Chief Impact Officer. “That’s why we are investing in AI training, with a commitment to reach two million learners in three years, and expanding IBM SkillsBuild to collaborate with universities and nonprofits on new generative AI education for learners all over the world.”

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IBM is working with institutions all around the world to develop their AI capabilities by utilizing IBM’s network of professionals. University professors will have a chance to attend IBM-led training, which includes certifications after completion of immersive skilling experiences and lectures. Additionally, IBM will offer course materials, including self-guided artificial intelligence (AI) learning paths, for instructors to utilize in the classroom. IBM will provide students with adaptable and flexible resources, including free online courses in generative AI as well as Red Hat open-source tools, along with academic instruction from academics.

Learners worldwide may have access to AI education through IBM SkillsBuild, which IBM specialists established to deliver the most recent cutting-edge technological breakthroughs.

Also Read: Google Tweaks Ad Auctions to Hit Revenue Targets, Executive Says

IBM SkillsBuild already provides free training in chatbots, the basics of AI, and important subjects like AI ethics. Coursework and improved features are included in the latest generative AI plan.

Along with workshops, expert interactions with IBM coaches along mentors, learning through projects, availability of IBM software, specialized assistance from partners during the learning procedure, and connections to employment prospects, the improved partner edition of IBM SkillsBuild may also contain these features.

Databricks Clinches $43 Billion Valuation, Plans More AI Tools

Databricks Clinches $43 Billion Valuation, Plans More AI Tools

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Databricks Inc., a leading software provider in the field of data and analytics, has secured a staggering $500 million in new funding, skyrocketing the company’s valuation to a remarkable $43 billion. 

Databricks Clinches $43 Billion Valuation, Plans More AI Tools
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This significant funding round, led by T. Rowe Price and featuring participation from strategic investors Nvidia Corp. and Capital One Financial Corp., underscores Databricks’ unwavering commitment to advancing AI tools. Databricks’ CEO, Ali Ghodsi, expressed his enthusiasm for the strategic partnership with Nvidia, saying, “We’re very excited about this strategic partnership with Nvidia to build custom large language models.” These models are in high demand by corporations eager to harness their capabilities to work with vast data sets and respond to human-phrased queries effectively. Ghodsi added, “This investment lets us double down on our generative AI strategy.”

The company’s strategic shift towards AI is evident, as it has been actively developing its own large language model, which can be utilized by businesses to create their own AI-powered conversational agents, similar to ChatGPT. Nvidia, under the leadership of CEO Jensen Huang, has been a proponent of expanding the application of AI into new markets. The chipmaker has been investing in developing both hardware and software solutions to facilitate the integration of AI into various industries, potentially expediting the adoption of innovative products and services.

In this latest funding round, each share of Databricks is valued at $73.50, a noteworthy achievement that maintains the company’s valuation since its last funding round two years ago, after adjusting for a stock split.

While Databricks has been increasingly perceived as a strong candidate for an initial public offering (IPO), CEO Ali Ghodsi has clarified that there is no specific timeline in mind. Ghodsi’s focus remains firmly on the company’s growth, both organically and through acquisitions. In June, Databricks announced the closure of its $1.3 billion acquisition of Mosaic ML, further solidifying its presence in the AI landscape.

Also Read: Softbank-backed Arm raises $4.87 billion at $51 per share in biggest IPO of 2023

In a press release, Databricks disclosed that it is on track to achieve an annual revenue of $1.5 billion, marking an impressive 50% increase from the previous year. The company boasts a customer base exceeding 10,000 clients, with over 300 of them projected to invest upwards of $1 million annually.

Databricks’ dedication to advancing AI tools and its substantial valuation reflects the growing significance of AI in the tech industry. With this latest funding injection, Databricks is poised to continue shaping the future of AI-driven data and analytics solutions, cementing its status as a key player in this rapidly evolving field. While an IPO remains a possibility, for now, Databricks is content to concentrate on expanding its horizons and pushing the boundaries of AI innovation.

Adobe Will Charge Less Than OpenAI for Image Generation Tool

Adobe Will Charge Less Than OpenAI for Image Generation Tool

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In a bold move to capture the rapidly growing market of AI-powered image generation, Adobe Inc. has unveiled its latest offering, Firefly, which comes at a price that undercuts OpenAI’s Dall-E. 

Adobe Will Charge Less Than OpenAI for Image Generation Tool
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This development is poised to reshape the landscape of creative AI tools and make them more accessible to a broader user base. Adobe, renowned for its suite of creative software including Photoshop and Illustrator, has introduced Firefly as an integrated generative artificial intelligence imaging tool. This innovative tool will be available within Adobe’s creative software, as well as on a standalone website, offering users a seamless experience.

One of the most compelling aspects of Adobe’s Firefly is its pricing strategy. Subscribers to Adobe’s creative software packages will enjoy a set number of image generations as part of their existing plans, with the highest-tier subscription offering an impressive 3,000 image generations per month. This inclusion of AI-powered image generation within existing packages is expected to attract professionals and enthusiasts alike.

What sets Adobe’s Firefly apart is its pricing model for additional image generations. Users who wish to produce more images beyond their subscription allocation will be charged approximately 5 cents per creation. This pricing is notably lower than OpenAI’s Dall-E, which has been a popular choice for AI-generated images but charges around 13 cents per credit on the web. While Adobe’s pricing may not be the absolute cheapest, it strikes a balance between affordability and quality.

Adobe’s move into the AI-driven creative space is strategic. By integrating AI into its widely-used products, the company aims to gain a competitive edge over startups and other software providers. Firefly is designed to enhance the creative process for artists, designers, and content creators, enabling them to generate stunning visuals with ease.

Furthermore, Adobe is emphasizing the “commercially safe” nature of Firefly. This means that the company will support its customers in legal matters, particularly if they encounter copyright claims related to images generated using the tool. This commitment to customer protection is expected to reassure businesses and individuals concerned about potential legal issues when using AI-generated content.

Also Read: Drone Startup Shield AI Valued at $2.5 Billion in New Funding Round

In a bid to make Firefly accessible to a wider audience, Adobe is offering a free tier that allows users to produce up to 25 images per month. This move aligns with Adobe’s strategy of democratizing creative tools and providing opportunities for users to explore the capabilities of AI-generated content.

As Adobe steps into the AI image generation arena with Firefly, it is not only challenging competitors like OpenAI but also reshaping the creative landscape. With its cost-effective pricing, seamless integration, and commitment to customer support, Adobe is poised to make AI-powered creativity more accessible and user-friendly for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Firefly represents a significant leap forward in the world of AI-driven content creation, promising a brighter future for digital artists and designers.

Alibaba CEO Elevates AI to Key Priority in Group Revamp Plan

Alibaba CEO Elevates AI to Key Priority in Group Revamp Plan

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Alibaba Group Holding Ltd, one of China’s tech giants, is embarking on a strategic transformation that places artificial intelligence (AI) and user experience at the forefront of its priorities. 

Alibaba CEO Elevates AI to Key Priority in Group Revamp Plan
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This bold move comes as the company faces intensified competition and economic challenges in a rapidly evolving market. The newly appointed CEO, Eddie Wu, articulated his vision for the company in a memo to employees, marking a significant shift in Alibaba’s approach. Wu emphasized the need to pivot towards an “AI-first” strategy while remaining mindful of the hundreds of millions of users who contributed to the company’s immense success.

“We will recalibrate our operations around these two core strategies and reshape our business priorities,” Wu stated in his memo. This renewed focus on AI is in response to mounting competition from emerging rivals like ByteDance Ltd in the realm of social media and significant AI investments made by companies like Baidu Inc. Alibaba aims to reinforce its investments in AI-driven tech businesses, internet platforms, and its global commerce network, aligning with the broader trend of Chinese tech companies prioritizing AI.

Alibaba’s strategic shift is taking place against a backdrop of fierce competition and domestic economic challenges. The company is slowly recovering from a two-year-long tech crackdown imposed by Beijing, and the unexpected departure of former CEO Daniel Zhang, who had recently accepted the role of steering the key Cloud Intelligence Group, signals a changing landscape within the organization.

Analysts suggest that the departure of Zhang may lead to greater influence for the new leadership team, composed of Eddie Wu and group chairman Joe Tsai. Wu and Tsai, both long-time associates of co-founder Jack Ma, are taking the reins at a pivotal moment. Alibaba must not only defend its top position against competitors like JD.com Inc. but also navigate a complex plan to split into six major business units.

Among these divisions, the cloud unit is seen as a significant potential growth driver, particularly in the AI infrastructure and services sector. Alibaba is actively seeking fresh funds, with plans for a Hong Kong initial public offering of its Freshippo grocery chain temporarily on hold due to valuation concerns.

Also Read: G-20 Broadens Debate on AI Risks and Mulls Global Oversight

Alibaba’s entry into the global AI race aligns with the broader importance of AI in tech companies and national strategic objectives. While the company did not secure initial regulatory approvals for offering generative AI services in China, it has made notable strides with the integration of AI models like ChatGPT into its meeting and messaging apps.

Jeffrey Towson, a partner at TechMoat Consulting, emphasized the significance of the cloud division, stating, “Who is going to run Alibaba Cloud is now the single most important growth question for Alibaba.” The company remains committed to independently spinning off the cloud unit, which seeks to raise substantial funding, potentially involving Chinese state enterprises.

G-20 Broadens Debate on AI Risks and Mulls Global Oversight

G-20 Broadens Debate on AI Risks and Mulls Global Oversight

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The G20 summit, hosted by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, provided a platform for world leaders to engage in crucial discussions regarding the future of artificial intelligence (AI). 

G-20 Broadens Debate on AI Risks and Mulls Global Oversight
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The primary focus of these discussions was to harness the economic potential of AI while safeguarding human rights, and many leaders voiced the need for global oversight of this rapidly evolving technology.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen proposed the establishment of an oversight body akin to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, emphasizing the necessity of “human-centric” AI governance. This sentiment was echoed by Modi, who emphasized the need to create a framework that ensures AI’s development aligns with human values and rights.

Notably, even AI innovators themselves are advocating for political leaders to play a regulatory role in AI development. The acknowledgment of this necessity underlines the importance of addressing the ethical and societal implications of AI on a global scale.

German Finance Minister Christian Lindner expressed the bloc’s commitment to addressing AI ethics through common rules. He noted that this process had already begun, with experts laying the foundation for deeper discussions in the coming year. The commitment to ethical AI governance is a significant step toward ensuring responsible AI development and deployment.

In their final communique, G20 leaders affirmed their dedication to “responsible AI development, deployment, and use.” This commitment encompasses the protection of fundamental rights, transparency, privacy, and data security while avoiding potential pitfalls. Additionally, the leaders endorsed a “pro-innovation regulatory/governance approach” designed to maximize the benefits of AI while carefully considering its associated risks.

This G20 initiative aligns with the previous agreement reached by leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) advanced economies. In May, the G7 leaders expressed concerns about the potential risks posed by AI technologies and initiated the “Hiroshima Process.” This process involves cabinet-level discussions aimed at addressing AI challenges, with results expected to be presented by year’s end.

AI governance is poised to remain a central focus in international forums. Italy, set to preside over the G7 in 2024, is committed to advancing AI governance. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Prime Minister Modi discussed coordination efforts during the G20 summit, signaling their commitment to a comprehensive and responsible approach to AI.

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Furthermore, the United Kingdom is preparing to host the inaugural global summit on Artificial Intelligence on November 1-2. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak seeks to position the UK as a leader in AI technology, emphasizing its potential for both positive contributions, such as expediting medical diagnoses and reducing emissions and the need to mitigate potential misuse, including election interference and disinformation campaigns.

Key figures, including US President Joe Biden and prominent tech leaders, are expected to participate in the UK summit. This international collaboration underscores the global commitment to harnessing AI’s potential while ensuring ethical and responsible governance.

Microsoft Says It Will Protect Customers from AI Copyright Lawsuits

Microsoft Says It Will Protect Customers from AI Copyright Lawsuits

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In response to growing concerns about the misuse of artificial intelligence (AI) in generating harmful content, Microsoft has pledged to take significant steps to protect its customers from potential legal repercussions. 

Microsoft Says It Will Protect Customers from AI Copyright Lawsuits
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This commitment comes as Australia is set to implement a new code that mandates search engines like Google and Bing to prevent the dissemination of child sexual abuse material created by AI.

The new code, drafted at the Australian government’s request, seeks to ensure that search engines do not return results that include AI-generated child sexual abuse material. It also prohibits AI functions integrated into these search engines from producing synthetic versions of such harmful content, commonly referred to as deepfakes.

According to e-Safety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant, the rapid proliferation of generative AI has taken the world by surprise. She emphasized that the code signifies a crucial development in the regulatory and legal landscape surrounding internet platforms. This landscape is evolving in response to the explosion of products that automatically generate lifelike content, presenting new challenges and responsibilities for tech giants like Google and Microsoft.

Inman Grant highlighted that an earlier code proposed by Google and Microsoft did not address AI-generated content adequately. Consequently, she called upon these industry giants to reevaluate and improve the code to align with the emerging AI landscape.

“When the biggest players in the industry announced they would integrate generative AI into their search functions, we had a draft code that was clearly no longer fit for purpose. We asked the industry to have another go,” Inman Grant explained.

Microsoft’s commitment to protecting its customers from AI-generated content reflects its dedication to responsible AI development and its recognition of the evolving legal and ethical concerns associated with AI. As a responsible tech leader, Microsoft is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the industry’s response to these challenges.

This development comes on the heels of the Australian regulator registering safety codes for various other internet services, including social media, smartphone applications, and equipment providers. These codes are set to take effect in late 2023, marking a significant milestone in Australia’s efforts to ensure online safety and security.

Read More: Australia to Require AI-made Child Abuse Material to be Removed from Search Results

While this regulatory initiative is a positive step towards addressing the risks posed by AI-generated content, it also raises questions about privacy and the balance between security and personal freedoms. The regulator is still in the process of developing safety codes related to internet storage and private messaging services, an endeavor that has faced resistance from privacy advocates worldwide.

In conclusion, Microsoft’s commitment to protecting its users from AI-generated harmful content is a proactive response to evolving challenges in the digital landscape. As technology continues to advance, it is imperative for industry leaders to collaborate with regulators and stakeholders to establish responsible guidelines and practices for the responsible use of AI.