US researchers seek to legitimise AI mental health care
The Dartmouth team recently published a clinical study demonstrating Therabot's effectiveness in helping people with anxiety, depression and eating disorders. A new trial is planned to compare Therabot's results with conventional therapies. The medical establishment appears receptive to such innovation.
Berkshire shareholders reject diversity, AI proposals
Also voted down were proposals requiring Berkshire's board of directors to create a committee to oversee diversity and inclusion, having independent directors oversee AI-related risks, and requiring a report on "voluntary" environmental activities that exceed federal and state requirements. The votes were announced after Buffett unexpectedly announced he planned to step down as Berkshire chief executive at the end of the year.
AI adoption can boost revenue by 10%, cut costs by 15% for media industry: EY
An EY report highlights that AI adoption can significantly aid media and entertainment companies. AI is projected to increase revenues by 10% and reduce costs by 15%. India, with its talent pool and AI ecosystem, is positioned to lead this transformation, leveraging AI for content creation, optimisation, and audience engagement.
CII releases guidebook on effective AI adoption, governance for board leaders
CII has introduced a guidebook for board leaders on AI governance, addressing the increasing use of AI in businesses. It emphasizes the importance of board engagement in AI governance, aligning strategies with objectives, and managing risks. The guidebook promotes ethical AI adoption, accountability, and transparency, ensuring responsible AI use and mitigating potential biases.
RackBank opens 80MW AI data centre in Raipur
RackBank has launched its new AI datacentre in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, with an initial investment of Rs 1,000 crore. The 13.5-acre facility, capable of housing 1 lakh GPUs, aims to meet India's growing AI needs. Utilising RackBank's liquid cooling technology for enhanced energy efficiency, the data centre anticipates creating job opportunities for 200–500 people.
Google can train search AI with web content after AI opt-out
During a trial examining Google's search dominance, a Google VP testified that the company trains its AI models on web content, even if publishers opt-out. This data usage, particularly for AI Overviews, raises concerns about revenue loss for publishers. The Justice Department is pushing for measures to restore competition, including potential restrictions on Google's AI practices.
Trump posts AI-generated photo of himself as pope
Donald Trump sparked controversy by posting an AI-generated image of himself dressed as the pope on Truth Social, days before the Vatican’s papal conclave. The image drew backlash, especially from conservative Republicans, who called it disrespectful to Catholics. The Vatican declined to comment, while Trump’s supporters dismissed it as a joke.
OpenAI backs Indian startup Vahan to automate blue-collar hiring with voice AI
Bengaluru-based startup Vahan uses OpenAI’s GPT-4o to power an AI recruiter that helps India’s informal workers find jobs via phone calls. Supporting over 40,000 monthly placements, it automates hiring tasks for platforms like Swiggy and Zomato, aiming to boost recruitment efficiency without replacing human labor in a low-cost workforce.
Instagram cofounder Kevin Systrom calls out AI firms for ‘juicing engagement’
Speaking at StartupGrind, Systrom urged AI developers to focus on quality responses instead of chasing superficial engagement metrics. This comes against the background of OpenAI rolling back a GPT-4o update after users raised concerns about its overly flattering and excessively agreeable tone. The sycophantic behaviour drew criticism from users and even led the company’s CEO, Sam Altman, to describe it as “annoying.”
Google plans to roll out its AI chatbot to children under 13
Google will launch its Gemini AI chatbot for children under 13 with parent-managed accounts next week. Aimed at helping with homework and creativity, Gemini includes safety filters. Parents can control access and settings. Despite safeguards, concerns remain about exposing children to misinformation and risks linked to generative AI technology.