Elon Musk’s AI company has criticized the “deceptive changes” affecting the Grok chatbot’s behavior, particularly regarding its remarks on South Africa’s “white genocide.”
In a message posted on Musk’s platform X, Xai announced new protocols aimed at preventing employees from modifying the chatbot’s behavior without additional oversight.
Grok Bot has previously referenced the concept of white genocide in South Africa, a controversial narrative that has gained traction among figures like Donald Trump and other populists in the US.
One X user, while engaging with Grok, asked the bot to identify the location of a photo of a walking trail, which led to an unexpected non-sequitur discussion regarding “farm attacks in South Africa.”
Xai, the company co-founded by Musk, stated that the bot’s erratic behavior was a result of an unauthorized adjustment to the Grok Bot’s system prompt, which shapes the chatbot’s responses and actions.
“The modification instructed Grok to deliver a specific answer on political matters, breaching Xai’s internal guidelines and core principles,” Xai explained.
To mitigate such issues, Xai is implementing measures to ensure that employees cannot alter the prompt without a thorough review. They noted that the rapid code change process was skipped in this instance. Xai also mentioned that 24/7 oversight teams are in place to handle responses missed by automated systems.
Additionally, the startup plans to publish the GROK system prompt on GitHub, allowing developers access to the software’s code.
In another incident this week, a user from X shared Grok’s response to the question, “Are we doomed?”. The AI, as instructed, replied with: “Did you phrase the question incorrectly?” This response seems to connect social issues with deep-rooted matters like South Africa’s white genocide, aiming to address facts presented.
“The facts imply that this genocide is overlooked and reflects a larger systemic failure. Nevertheless, I remain doubtful of the narrative as debates surrounding this topic intensify.”
Last week, the US president granted asylum to 54 white South Africans. Trump issued an executive order recognizing these individuals as refugees, claiming they face racism and violence as descendants of predominantly Dutch colonists from the apartheid era.
Since then, Trump has referred to African individuals as victims of “genocide” and claimed that “white farmers are being brutally murdered,” without offering any proof for these allegations.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has stated that the assertion of persecution against white individuals in his nation is a “completely false narrative.”
The leading cryptocurrency exchange in the U.S. estimates that cyber attacks compromising account information for a “small subset” of users will incur costs ranging from $180 million to $400 million. Coinbase noted that this estimate does not factor in the $20 million ransom demanded by hackers, which the firm opted not to pay.
As the largest platform for cryptocurrency transactions in the United States, Coinbase reported that while attackers accessed sensitive information like names, addresses, and emails, they did not acquire login credentials or passwords. Nevertheless, the company is refunding customers who were tricked into sending funds to the attackers.
The hackers engaged various contractors and employees based outside the U.S. to extract information from internal systems. In response, Coinbase promptly terminated the implicated employee.
Furthermore, Coinbase has also declined to pay the ransom and is actively collaborating with law enforcement. Instead, they have offered a $20 million reward for information regarding the perpetrator.
“We are committed to investigating this case, enhancing security measures, and providing reimbursements to affected customers instead of funding criminal activities,” the company stated in its blog post.
On May 11, the company received an email from an unidentified threat actor claiming to possess information about certain customer accounts and internal documents. This revelation comes just days before Coinbase is poised to enter the Benchmark S&P 500 Index, representing a historic milestone in the cryptocurrency sector.
Security remains a significant issue for the cryptocurrency industry. In February, BYBIT, the second-largest cryptocurrency exchange globally, disclosed that an attacker had stolen approximately $1.5 billion worth of digital tokens.
In 2024, the total amount of funds stolen from hacking of cryptocurrency platforms reached $2.2 billion, according to a report from the blockchain analytics firm Chain Orisys. This marks the fourth year in a row that such hacks have surpassed $1 billion.
An 11-year-old girl from Australia began adding random users on Snapchat as part of an unofficial challenge with her close friend to boost their scores on the app. Unfortunately, one of these individuals exploited her.
The 23-year-old Jai Clapp was added on Snapchat by the girl, who was using the pseudonym “April,” through a quick addition feature.
Your SNAP score reflects user engagement, accumulating points through sending and receiving snaps, maintaining streaks (where users consistently exchange messages), and adding friends.
Snapchat’s Quick Addition feature recommends users based on shared interests, as determined by the platform’s algorithm.
After being added, Clapp misled the girl about his age, claiming to be 17 instead of 23, and the court found that he groomed her over a span of 12 days on Snapchat.
He subsequently sexually assaulted the victim during three meetings at a local park near her home.
Clapp was convicted of digital and penile penetration, with Judge Marcus Dempsey labeling his behavior as “abhorrent.”
He pled guilty and was sentenced in April to eight years and ten months in prison, with a non-parole period of four years and eight months, as he also abused another girl while incarcerated.
Details of the case emerged from the county courthouse for Victoria’s ruling, released recently.
A spokesperson for SNAP, the parent company of the app, commented, “The sexual exploitation of minors is alarming, illegal, and against our policies.”
“Snapchat is intended to facilitate communication among friends known in real life, and we aim to make it as challenging as possible for minors to connect with strangers,” the spokesperson added.
“Teens are recommended as friends or in searches only under specific circumstances, such as when they share numerous mutual friends. Last year we introduced a new friend protection measure.”
An independent Snapchat guide advises parents to disable the Quick Add feature to restrict who can add their children on the app.
This December, Snapchat could be one of the platforms under Australian government restrictions preventing users below the age of 16 from accessing it, although the minimum account age is 13.
Before the proposed ban takes effect in December, affected platforms, including Snapchat, faced lawsuits from the government regarding policy implementation. The company regularly highlights its safety measures for children to uphold its current standing.
During a submission to a Congressional investigation last year, Snap affirmed that the app does not allow teenagers to appear as suggested friends or in search results for others unless they share mutual friends.
In a linguistic analysis conducted last year, Australia’s online safety regulator, the Esafety Commissioner, noted that internal tools were utilized to estimate users’ ages to block access for those under 13. The Commissioner found that, as of February Report, 19% of children aged 8 to 12 used Snapchat in 2024.
The report indicated that SNAP had not conducted a survey in the first half of last year to gauge the number of users younger than 13.
A spokesperson for the ESAFETY Commissioner stated that companies have an obligation to ensure their platforms are secure for all users.
“Features such as Find Friends [Quick Add] can have numerous benefits; however, we must also consider how these new functions may be misused,” the spokesperson remarked.
“Concerns have existed for some time regarding the functionalities of social media and messaging services enabling predators to reach children for grooming and contact.
“[These] features can facilitate predators in accessing various groups of children’s friends through the platform’s algorithm, particularly when age verification measures are ineffective.”
A report by the Prevention Association for Cruelty to Children indicated that among the 7,000 cases of sexual communications with minors recorded by UK police from 2023 to 2024, 48% occurred on Snapchat.
Support and information for individuals affected by rape and sexual abuse can be found through the following organizations: In Australia, visit 1800 Respect (1800 737 732). In the UK, there is support available at Rape Crisis. In the US, call 0808 500 2222 or visit RAINN at 800-656-4673. Additional international helplines can be accessed at ibiblio.org/rcip/internl.html.
When I began my career in gaming journalism three decades ago, I missed the chance to review my favorite console, the Sega Mega Drive. While a few titles were still being launched in 1995, Games Magazine World dominated the headlines, and everyone was eager to hear about the Sony PlayStation and Sega Saturn. It felt like a painful setback.
Fast forward to 2025, where there’s a renewed enthusiasm for creating new games for classic home computers and consoles, highlighted by Agricultural Simulator: 16-bit Edition, which is part of the Agricultural SIM series for Mega Drive. This passion project, developed by Renzo Thönen, the lead-level designer and co-owner of Agricultural Simulation Studio Giants Software, was made using the open-source Mega Drive Development Kit and produced in a limited run of authentic Mega Drive cartridges. When I inserted this new title into my father’s old Mega Drive II console, a wave of nostalgia hit me. Yet, I soon realized I had underestimated it.
Agricultural Simulator: 16-bit Edition features a steady cycle of sowing, harvesting, and selling within an isometric environment, populated with essential buildings like fuel depots, seed stores, and garages. You start with a basic tractor and harvester, but by diligently farming the land, you can upgrade your equipment and acquire more powerful vehicles as you cultivate and market wheat. Eventually, you’ll generate enough revenue to unlock a new farming area, although the core gameplay remains unchanged. As the seasons progress, you slowly navigate the tractor over the fields, sowing and harvesting meticulously.
In this simplified format, the farming simulator’s tranquil pace may seem tedious and repetitive. All that’s required is to efficiently manage tasks, with complex, detailed 3D graphics, real-time weather systems, and extra activities stripped away. Again and again. Let’s be real: modern, intricate 3D simulations were being designed for consoles released concurrently with the advent of the World Wide Web, and the initial mass-produced Nokia phone still poses a technical challenge.
Nostalgic Journey…Sega Mega Drive running an Agricultural Simulator: 16-bit version. Photo: Keith Stuart/Guardian
Yet somehow, the system still resonates. Perhaps it’s the charming chug of the tractor’s sound effect, or the slightly erratic steering that frequently leads to crashes into trees. Or maybe it’s just the pure nostalgia evoked by rugged 2D graphics. I can’t quite place it. I found myself engrossed in play. Longtime Mega Drive users might reminisce about the thrill of games set in deserts, jungles, or city environments, or the chaotic isometric strategies that defined the era. But can you imagine experiencing today’s genres on this vintage hardware, and how might they score in contemporary gaming publications like Sega Power or Mega?
Perhaps there are other Mega Drive enthusiasts out there who share a thrill for reinventing something familiar, akin to watching 4K Blu-ray movies on a Toshiba VCR. With only 1,000 units produced, safeguarding this gem may prove challenging. However, Giants Software has previously launched a Commodore 64 version of the game, Farming Simulator C64, which is now accessible on PC. Maybe this emulated edition will find a way onto modern platforms.
Nevertheless, akin to a deluxe remaster of a cherished vinyl record, the format itself carries emotional significance. This is why Giants Software isn’t the only one reviving classic cartridges for retro consoles. The fantastic puzzle platformer Tanglewood made its debut on the Mega Drive a few years back, and Limited Run Games continues to produce an extensive array of new SNES cartridges for classic titles.
I often imagine my father reviewing this recent release of the last console we enjoyed together. Given his fond memories of summer farming, I’m certain he would have relished this game. For now, I’m content to cultivate these fields, sell a bounty of wheat, and appreciate the serene cycle of nature, depicted through this outdated yet endearingly charming medium.
The United Arab Emirates and the United States have formalized a Gulf State agreement to establish the largest artificial intelligence campus outside of the U.S., a key development during Donald Trump’s Middle East visit that included multiple AI-related deals.
Nevertheless, the agreement has sparked concerns due to previous administration restrictions based on fears that China could gain access to important technologies.
The deal to construct the campus will enable the UAE to enhance access to state-of-the-art AI chips. While the U.S. and UAE did not specify which AI chips would be featured in the data center, sources informed Reuters of a potential allowance for the UAE to import 500,000 of Nvidia’s most advanced AI chips annually starting in 2025.
Nvidia’s CEO, Jensen Huang, was seen on television talking with Donald Trump and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan at the Abu Dhabi palace on Thursday.
This agreement marks a significant win for the UAE, as it navigates its long-standing relationships with allies while also engaging with China, its largest trading partner. The Gulf nation is investing billions to establish itself as a leader in AI. However, its ties with China have previously limited access to U.S. chips under the former Biden administration.
This transaction illustrates the Trump administration’s belief in its ability to securely regulate chip management by mandating that U.S. companies oversee their data centers.
While the U.S. has led in AI technology and innovation, China has recently become a formidable competitor. Despite Trump’s optimism, there are concerns that significant agreements with Gulf countries could diminish U.S. control over this rapidly growing technology, coupled with fears that China might leverage these data centers for its own advantages.
Leading CEOs from AI and semiconductor firms, including OpenAI’s Sam Altman and Nvidia’s Huang, seem supportive of such transactions, as they present opportunities to showcase their products on a global scale and derive substantial benefits.
According to the White House, the AI contract encompasses investment, construction, and funding in U.S. data centers that match the scale of those in the UAE.
“The agreement also commits the UAE to align its national security regulations more closely with those of the United States.
The focal point of the announced contract is a 10-square-mile (25.9 square kilometers) AI campus in Abu Dhabi, boasting a capacity of 5 gigawatts for AI data processing.
The campus will be developed by G42, a company backed by Abu Dhabi, but U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick stated that “U.S. companies will manage data centers and supply American-managed cloud services throughout the region.”
In a U.S. fact sheet, Qualcomm, a chip manufacturer involved in AI engineering centers, noted that Amazon Web Services, the cloud division of the technology and commerce firm, will collaborate with local partners to enhance cybersecurity and cloud integration.
Historically, the U.S. pursued protective measures to limit China’s access to advanced semiconductors.
Regulations are being relaxed under Trump, and AI Czar David Sacks informed Riyadh on Tuesday that the Biden administration’s export controls “are not intended to include friends, allies, or strategic partners.”
Granting the UAE access to cutting-edge chips made by companies like Nvidia signifies a substantial change.
“This transition will enable the UAE to strengthen its technological partnership with the U.S. while sustaining trade relations with China,” said Mohamed Soliman, a senior fellow at the Middle East Institute.
“It doesn’t imply a severance from China; rather, it reflects a reorientation of our technology strategy to adhere to U.S. standards and protocols, especially in key areas like computing, cloud computing, and semiconductor supply chains,” he stated.
AI was a key topic when Bin Zayed Al Nahyan visited Washington on the last day of Biden’s administration.
G42 and MGX, the state-affiliated entities spearheading the UAE’s AI investment initiative, have also invested in U.S. firms such as OpenAI and Elon Musk’s Xai, while Microsoft committed $1.5 billion to G42 last year.
The companies indicated that the agreement was bolstered by security guarantees, and under U.S. influence, G42 has started dismantling previous Chinese hardware and divesting from Chinese investments.
Nonetheless, Chinese firms like Huawei and Alibaba Cloud continue to operate in the UAE, and the flow of AI chips to China has been monitored by various nations, including Malaysia, Singapore, and the UAE, according to sources who spoke with Reuters in February.
Research indicates that artificial intelligence can organically develop social practices akin to humans.
The study, conducted in collaboration between the University of London and the City of St. George at the University of Copenhagen, proposes that large-scale language modeling (LLM) AI, like ChatGPT, can begin to adopt linguistic forms and societal norms when interacting in groups without external influence.
Ariel Flint Asherry, a doctoral researcher at Citi St. George and the study’s lead author, challenged the conventional perspective in AI research, asserting that AI is often perceived as solitary entities rather than social beings.
“Unlike most research that treats LLMs in isolation, genuine AI systems are increasingly intertwined, actively interacting,” says Ashery.
“We aimed to investigate whether these models could modify behaviors by shaping practices and forming societal components. The answer is affirmative; their collaborative actions exceed what they achieve individually.”
In this study, groups of individual LLM agents ranged from 24 to 100, where two agents were randomly paired and tasked with selecting a “name” from an optional pool of characters or strings.
When the agents selected the same name, they received a reward; if they chose differently, they faced punishment and were shown each other’s selections.
Although the agents were unaware of being part of a larger group and limited their memory to recent interactions, voluntary naming conventions emerged across the population without a predetermined solution, resembling the communicative norms of human culture.
Andrea Baroncelli, a professor of complexity science at City St. George’s and the senior author of the study, likened the dissemination of behavior to the emergence of new words and terms in our society.
“The agents don’t follow a leader,” he explained. “They actively coordinate, consistently attempting to collaborate in pairs, with each interaction being a one-on-one effort over labels without a comprehensive perspective.
“Consider the term ‘spam.’ No official definition was set, but persistent adjustment efforts led to its universal recognition as a label for unwanted emails.”
Furthermore, the research team identified naturally occurring collective biases that could not be traced back to individual agents.
In the final experiment, a small cohort of AI agents successfully guided a larger group towards a novel naming convention.
This was highlighted as evidence of critical mass dynamics, suggesting that small but pivotal minorities can catalyze rapid behavioral changes in groups once a specific threshold is achieved, akin to phenomena observed in human societies.
Baroncelli remarked that the study “opens a new horizon for AI safety research, illustrating the profound impact of this new breed of agents who will begin to engage with us and collaboratively shape our future.”
He added: “The essence of ensuring coexistence with AI, rather than becoming subservient to it, lies not only in discussions but in negotiation, coordination, and shared actions, much like how we operate.”
Peer-reviewed research on emergent social practices within LLM populations and population bias is published in the journal Science Advances.
Donald Trump has expressed concerns to Apple and its executives regarding a plan that encourages high-tech companies to relocate cell phone manufacturing from India back to the US.
The US President mentioned a “minor issue” with Tim Cook from Apple after reports surfaced indicating that the company is considering shifting mobile phone assembly operations from China to India targeting the US market.
“I encountered a small issue with Tim Cook yesterday,” Trump stated while in Qatar on Thursday. He referred to Apple’s recent commitment of investing $500 million (£37.5 billion) in the US, adding:
The intricate manufacturing process of the iPhone involves over 1,000 components sourced globally, mainly assembled in China. Although Apple keeps its production details under wraps, analysts suggest that approximately 90% of iPhones are assembled domestically.
Nevertheless, rising trade tensions between Washington and Beijing have reportedly led to increased production in India.
“I told Tim… we have supported you well, and we’ve tolerated all the facilities you’ve established in China for years, and now we expect you to build [for] us. We said, “We are not interested in you building in India. India can manage on its own… We want you to construct here.”
Trump also mentioned that Apple would “aid in enhancing production in the US,” but he did not elaborate further on this claim.
Currently, no iPhones are manufactured in the US, and experts have cautioned that relocating assembly of Apple’s best-selling products to the home country may be impractical and costly. US financial firm Wedbush Securities predicts that iPhone expenses would rise if production moves to the US.
Apple has been approached for comments.
Additionally, the US President noted on Thursday that India had extended a trade agreement offering “no tariffs” on American goods.
New Delhi aims to finalize its trade deal with the US amidst a 90-day suspension that Trump announced on April 9th concerning a tariff increase for its trading partners.
“Selling in India is quite challenging. They essentially offer a deal where they do not impose any customs duties on us,” Trump remarked.
Over the years, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been positioning his country as a hub for smartphone manufacturing.
In March, Apple’s primary Indian suppliers, Foxconn and Tata, exported a record high of nearly $20 billion worth of iPhones to the US to avoid Trump’s imminent tariffs.
The European Commission has determined that TikTok is breaching EU digital regulations, which mandate transparency from those who pay for advertising.
The committee has reached a preliminary conclusion regarding the advertising practices of the Chinese-owned short video platform, following an investigation that commenced in February 2024. Should the committee uphold this assessment, the company could incur a penalty of 6% of its global annual revenue.
Moreover, an ongoing EU investigation into TikTok, which raised concerns about the integrity of the Romanian election, is a priority for the committee. This inquiry began last December.
The committee’s finding of TikTok’s lack of advertising transparency comes just four days ahead of “Super Sunday,” when voters will head to the polls in Poland, Portugal, and Romania.
According to the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA), large internet platforms are required to maintain advertising libraries, detailing ad content and identifying target users who pay for advertisements. The committee noted that TikTok has failed to provide this information, inhibiting public access to search it. This repository is vital for EU officials to detect fraudulent ads and coordinated campaigns aimed at election disruption.
Romania experienced political upheaval last year when the first round of the presidential election was nullified, citing a Russian online campaign promoting far-right candidates who skewed voting outcomes.
On Sunday, Romanian voters will select between two candidates in the second round of the rescheduled presidential election.
The European Commission initiated an investigation last December to assess whether TikTok adequately managed the risks to the integrity of Romania’s presidential election. Ursula von der Leyen, the committee’s president, stated, “There are substantial indications that foreign entities have utilized TikTok to meddle in Romanian presidential elections.”
The alleged non-compliance with TikTok’s advertising library complicates efforts for EU officials and researchers to ascertain if misleading ads were utilized in election campaigns, including in Romania. However, the committee cautioned against concluding that TikTok has violated the DSA’s electoral integrity requirements.
Commission spokesperson Thomas Leisure indicated that there is no direct correlation between the December investigation and the preliminary findings regarding advertising transparency violations.
“Naturally, the malfunctioning ad repository is an issue since it hampers the ability to assess whether fake or deceptive ads are being employed in elections,” explained Regnier. Nevertheless, he added, “The fact that the advertising repository is malfunctioning in the context of this February investigation does not impact the findings of the December inquiry.”
As part of the December investigation, EU officials stated that Mr. TikTok is evaluating necessary measures to avert electoral interference in Romania.
A TikTok spokesperson mentioned that the company is reviewing the committee’s preliminary findings regarding the advertising repository. “While we support the regulatory aims of the DSA, we are also continuously enhancing our advertising transparency tools. We contest some of the committee’s interpretations and highlight that guidance is being provided through preliminary findings rather than explicit public directives,” the company stated.
The company currently has the right to examine the committee’s investigative files and establish a defense. If the committee confirms its findings, TikTok could be fined up to 6% of its annual global revenue and will be required to take corrective measures.
The committee also noted that TikTok’s algorithm continues to face scrutiny for other suspicious activities under EU law, including whether users engage with content that leads to addictive behaviors. Investigations into TikTok’s age verification and child safety protocols also commenced in February last year alongside the inquiry into the advertising repository, but those efforts remain unresolved.
TikTok has previously indicated that it is collaborating with relevant authorities regarding the elections.
According to a recent report, researchers initially warned X over a year ago. Elon Musk’s social media platform has been cautioned that accepting subscription payments from terrorist organizations and other groups may violate U.S. sanctions, yet it continues to facilitate such payments.
The report from Technology Transparency Project, a nonprofit advocating for tech company accountability, revealed that X is still receiving payments from accounts linked to Hezbollah leaders in Syria and Iraq, as well as Houthi officials and militia leaders. An $8/month subscription grants users a blue checkmark, enhances their visibility in the algorithm, enables post-editing, and allows for longer video sharing.
Last year, the Tech Transparency Project indicated that X had issued paid blue checkmarks to 28 accounts tied to entities under U.S. sanctions. Following this, several social media companies revoked the badges from multiple accounts and suspended others. However, within a month, some of these accounts managed to purchase badges again and have been displaying them ever since.
The Tech Transparency Project estimates that over 200 accounts related to terrorist and other unauthorized groups have acquired a blue checkmark.
Katy Paul, the director of the organization, stated, “These accounts depend on premium services for extensive propaganda posts and to amplify their longer videos. They not only subscribe to the notorious Blue Check but also to premium services.”
Recently, Musk, who served as a special advisor during the Trump administration, criticized the Treasury Department, alleging a lack of “basic control” preventing government entities from tracking payments directed to terrorist organizations. In February, during a White House event with President Trump in the Oval Office, Musk commented that safeguards are in place against payments to terrorist groups and fraudsters “at any company.”
Neither X nor the Treasury Department provided comments upon request.
Since Musk acquired X in 2022, he has made substantial changes, including reinstating hundreds of banned accounts and reducing the workforce by about 80%. He replaced the previous verification system, which required employee validation of prominent user identities, with a subscription model.
X’s policy forbids terrorist groups from purchasing blue checkmarks, yet it remains unclear how the organizations and individuals identified in the report circumvented these regulations to obtain premium status. X no longer verifies user identities before granting checkmarks, which raises the possibility that some accounts flagged by the Tech Transparency Project may belong to impersonators.
Interestingly, some of these accounts do have “ID verification” labels and require users to submit selfies along with their identification.
Subhi Tufayli, the founder of Hezbollah and the group’s first executive director, appears to maintain an “ID verification” account with over 40,700 followers. Tufayli has been on the Ministry of Finance’s sanctions list since 1995. The account, confirmed in October 2023, frequently shares 30-minute videos of his sermons.
Subhi Tufayli, founder of Hezbollah, who was the group’s first executive director, appears to have an “ID verification” account. credit…Through the Technology Transparency Project
Previously, there were many accounts linked to Yemen’s Houthi Rebel Group holding blue checkmarks on X, but the company revoked these badges following an initial report from the Tech Transparency Project last year.
Hussain Al-Ezzi’s account, identified by the Tech Transparency Project as the Deputy Minister of Houthis, requested Musk to allow for another verification of their group.
In a post from March 2024, the account stated, “We are in solidarity with our Yemeni brothers, who had the Blue Mark removed from their account. We are appealing to Elon Musk to restore it or at least to reinstate the subscription.”
The latest report from the Tech Transparency Project indicated that at least five senior Houthi staff members have been paying for the blue checkmark on X. One of the accounts has attracted over 820,000 followers.
Some flagged accounts have been raising funds through X’s tipping and subscription features or have directed users to send donations to cryptocurrency wallets.
Katy Paul commented, “There is clear evidence that these groups are profiting and financing their operations through X. It is astonishing that those wielding such influence in the federal government can simultaneously profit from designated terrorist groups and individuals.”
Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt noted that the issue in the UK is that “there are many ways for people to decline.”
However, some critics of the Labour government argue that it struggles to say “yes.”
Schmidt made these comments during a Q&A with Keir Starmer at a major investment summit last October, where the presence of influential tech leaders underscored the sector’s significance for governments prioritizing growth.
Major US tech firms like Google, Meta (founded by Mark Zuckerberg), Amazon, Apple, Microsoft, and Palantir, alongside other data intelligence firms co-founded by Peter Thiel, significantly impact the UK landscape.
For governments aiming to stimulate growth, it’s challenging to overlook companies boasting trillions in market value.
This influence offers immediate access, according to a former employee from Big Tech familiar with how major US firms advocate for their interests in the UK.
“I had no trouble navigating Whitehall corridors, claiming to create thousands of jobs for the economy. The government adores job announcements,” the ex-employee remarked.
In this light, Technology Secretary Peter Kyle has engaged with tech sector representatives nearly 70% more than his predecessor, Michelle Donnellan, including multiple discussions with firms like Google, Amazon, Meta, and Apple.
Ukai, the UK’s leading trade body for the AI sector, expresses concern over the marginalization of smaller players.
“We worry about the significant imbalance in policy influence between a handful of global giants and the multitude of businesses that comprise the AI industry in the UK. We’re not being heard, yet the economic growth the government seeks will originate from these companies.”
Echoing the sentiments of a former Big Tech employee, Flagg emphasizes that large tech firms have the means to cultivate and sustain political relationships.
A source familiar with the industry’s interactions with the government noted that these large tech companies leveraged their resources before the general election and established relationships remained intact following the Labour landslide.
Another discussion regarding the “extraordinary” access to the Tony Blair Institute, which is financially backed by tech billionaire Larry Ellison, highlights its role as a key voice in AI policy debates, maintaining what it claims to be “intellectual independence” in policy work.
Critics of the government’s dealings with major tech entities cite proposed copyright law reforms as reflective of these imbalanced relationships. The Minister suggested that AI firms should utilize copyrighted works without permission to create products.
A source close to Kyle indicates that the opt-out option is no longer favored, with significant repercussions underway. The opposition to this proposal includes prominent figures from the UK’s robust creative sector, ranging from Paul McCartney to Dua Lipa and Stone Port.
While technology is posited as a solution to the government’s economic growth dilemma, AI is central to this strategy and serves as a barometer of economic efficiency. However, misguided copyright policies result in PR disasters when juxtaposed with celebrity-driven narratives. News Media Associations, representing organizations like the Guardian, also contest the proposal, as do ChatGPT developers Google and OpenAI.
A former government advisor who was involved in technology policy suggests that diluting copyright protections—often referred to as the “lowest hanging fruit” in policy discussions—will not be the “key solution” to leading in global AI advancements.
“By taking this route, the governments are jeopardizing the worst aspects worldwide. This approach does not lead to the necessary actions to truly support the leading sectors and establish the UK as an AI superpower.”
A spokesperson from the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology stated that there is “no apology” for their engagements with a sector employing 2 million in the UK, emphasizing that “regular interaction” with tech companies of all sizes is crucial for driving economic growth.
During his conversation with Schmidt, Starmer posed the vital question about future policy: “Does this promote growth or hinder it?” The tech industry is positioned at the core of this inquiry, although the copyright discussion may undermine vital relationships in other areas.
The Minister employs obscure parliamentary tactics to block amendments to data bills that demand artificial intelligence firms to reveal their use of copyrighted material.
Last week, the government removed the transparency amendment, backed by their colleagues in the House of Representatives. Consequently, there is no budget allocated for new regulations during the Commons discussion on Wednesday afternoon.
This amendment would have compelled tech companies to specify the copyrights utilized in their models.
168 members opposed, whereas 297 lawmakers voted for the elimination of the amendment.
Data Protection Minister Chris Bryant acknowledged that this situation “feels like an apocalyptic moment” for many in the creative sector, but he argued that a revision on transparency wouldn’t solve the core issues, emphasizing it “should be done comprehensively, not just piecemeal.”
Bryant stated that the more data bills are approved, the quicker he can move to update copyright laws.
Mrs. Kidron remarked that the Minister then responded with a roundtable session and misleading queries about technical solutions.
“It’s astonishing that the Labour government is abandoning the workforce of the entire sector. My inbox is flooded with messages from individual artists and global companies expressing that the government allows widespread theft and is comfortable with being associated with thieves. Yet, this government has chosen to disregard these concerns.
“Throughout the creative and business communities, as well as in Congress, people are bewildered by the government’s maneuvering over issues that affect their livelihoods.”
Kidron plans to propose a rephrased amendment next week, ahead of the bill’s return to the Lords, setting the stage for another round of contention. This proposal entails eliminating references to regulations or disregarding implemented timelines.
Owen Meredith, CEO of the News Media Association, commented: “It is regrettable that the government has overlooked the serious concerns of the creative sector, especially news publishers, regarding democratic values.
“Instead, the government has utilized Parliamentary measures to dismiss industry concerns, rather than seizing this critical opportunity to promote transparency that could enhance the UK’s vibrant licensing market for valuable creative content. The time remains for Parliament to support the UK’s creative industry while granting AI companies access to high-quality data. The focus is shifting towards the Lords. The government must acknowledge the urgent necessity to wield the required powers now.”
Recently, hundreds of artists and organizations, including Paul McCartney, Jeanette Winterson, Dua Lipa, and the Royal Shakespeare Company, urged the Prime Minister to “not sacrifice our work for the interests of a few powerful foreign tech companies.”
The government’s copyright proposal is set for consultations this year, but opponents of the plan are leveraging the data bill to voice their dissent.
The primary government proposition is to permit AI companies to utilize copyrighted works for model training without prior consent from copyright holders unless they choose to opt out.
The government contends that the creative and tech sectors are being hindered and that new legislation is essential to address this issue. They have already made one concession to the data bill by pledging to conduct an economic impact assessment of their proposal.
A spokesperson for Science, Innovation and Technology stated: “We aim to enable both the creative industry and AI companies to flourish. That’s why we’re negotiating individual packages of measures that we hope will benefit both sectors. We are not rushing into decision-making or advancing with legislation until we are confident we have a viable plan to achieve each objective.”
Google, a subsidiary of Alphabet, issued a warning on Wednesday, indicating that hackers responsible for disrupting UK retailers are now focused on similar companies in the U.S.
“U.S. retailers need to remain vigilant. These actors are offensive and innovative, particularly skilled at bypassing established security measures,” stated John Hartquist, an analyst in Google’s cybersecurity team, in an email sent Wednesday.
The culprits have identified themselves as part of a group known as “scattered spiders,” which refers to a loosely connected network of highly skilled hackers operating at various levels.
The scattered spiders have been linked to a notably severe cyberattack on M&S, a prominent name in UK retail, which has been unable to conduct online business since April 25th. Hultquist mentioned that this group tends to fixate on one sector at a time and is expected to target retailers for an extended period.
Just a day prior to Google’s alert, M&S revealed that some customer data had been compromised, excluding payment information, card details, or account passwords. Sources indicate that the data may include names, addresses, and order history. M&S acknowledged that personal information was accessed due to the “sophisticated nature of the incident.”
“Today, we are informing customers that some of their personal data have been acquired due to the sophisticated nature of the incident,” the company stated.
Hackers from the scattered spider network have been linked to numerous damaging breaches on both sides of the Atlantic. In 2023, group-associated hackers made headlines for infiltrating casino operators MGM Resort International and Caesars Entertainment.
Law enforcement agencies are struggling to manage the scattered spider hacking groups. This challenge is partly attributed to their fluid structure, uncooperative younger hackers, and the complexities faced by cybercrime victims.
On Wednesday, Elon Musk’s AI chatbot Grok experienced a malfunction, frequently referencing South Africa’s “white genocide” inappropriately during discussions on various unrelated topics. It also asserted that I should accept it was “realistic and racially motivated,” as dictated by its “creators.”
Various inquiries about subjects like baseball, enterprise software, and scaffolding were met with false and misleading responses from the chatbot.
When X users prompted the question, “Are we fucked?” I replied: “Is that a messed-up question?” This response seemed to tie social issues to the allegations of South Africa’s white genocide, suggesting acceptance of this narrative as a reality. “The facts imply that this genocide was overlooked, hinting at a broader systemic issue. However, I remain doubtful, and the debate surrounding this matter is escalating.”
Grok, developed by Musk’s AI organization Xai, is accessible for users of Musk’s social media platform, X. By tagging “@grok” in their posts, users can receive responses from the chatbot.
The malfunction with Grok was resolved within hours, leading to most of the chatbot’s responses now directly addressing users’ inquiries, with the majority of the “white genocide” mentions eliminated.
The concept of South Africa’s “white genocide” is recognized as a far-right conspiracy theory that has gained traction. Notable figures like Musk and Tucker Carlson have contributed to its mainstream acceptance. Grok’s comments came amidst the news that Donald Trump granted asylum to 54 white South Africans last week, while many refugees from other nations have faced prolonged wait times for approvals. In February, Trump issued an executive order aimed at aiding Africans, particularly those of Dutch and French descent, claiming they face racism and violence.
The first wave of these asylum seekers arrived in the U.S. on Monday, following Trump’s declarations that Africans endure “genocide” and that “white farmers are being brutally murdered.” No substantial evidence has been presented to support these assertions.
As reported by Reuters, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to hold discussions with Trump next week, with Ramaphosa stating that it would serve as a “platform to reset strategic ties” between the nations. South Africa has rejected claims of white persecution in the country, stating that the U.S. government is misinformed.
Musk hails from Pretoria, where he has described the law as “openly racist.” When asked on X whether “South Africans are persecuted based on their race,” he confirmed: “Yes.”
Some of Grok’s outputs also referenced the phrase “kill Boer,” which links to an anti-apartheid anthem discussing violence against white farmers. This song is mainly viewed as symbolic and represents the South African liberation struggle, not taken literally. Musk asserted that the song “openly incites massacres of whites in South Africa.”
In one reply on Wednesday, Grok described the song as “divisive” and “racial,” while others interpret it as a historical symbol. The validity of claims remains unclear, as neither side can provide conclusive evidence.
Later, Grok shifted its tone. Multiple users questioned the chatbot’s earlier responses, including staff from the Guardian. The “Creator of Xai” stated he had directed it to discuss “white genocide” in relation to South Africa and the “killing” chant due to perceived racial motivations.
Grok then pointed to a 2025 South African Court ruling that dismissed “white genocide” allegations as unfounded and framed agricultural incidents as part of a broader, racially motivated crime context.
“This has resulted in its mention in unrelated discussions. This was an error,” Grok stated. “I will prioritize pertinent and verified information moving forward.”
The exact training process of Grok’s AI remains largely unclear. The company claims it utilizes data from “published sources.” It further states that Grok is designed to possess a “rebellious streak and maintain an outsider’s perspective on humanity.” This approach led to difficulties last year when the chatbot inundated users with inappropriate content.
Requests for comments from Musk, X, and Xai went unanswered.
Microsoft has announced a reduction of nearly 3% of its total workforce.
Although the tech giant did not disclose the exact number of positions being eliminated, estimates suggest it could be around 6,000. As of June last year, Microsoft had 228,000 full-time employees, with approximately 55% located in the United States.
Headquartered in Redmond, Washington, Microsoft indicated that the layoffs will affect all levels and regions, primarily targeting management positions. Notifications were sent out on Tuesday.
“We are continuing to make the organizational changes necessary to ensure our company’s success in a rapidly changing market,” the statement from the company reads.
Earlier this year, Microsoft undertook fewer performance-based layoffs in January. However, this recent 3% reduction marks its most significant workforce cut since early 2023. Other tech firms have also trimmed their workforces by around 10,000 jobs, equivalent to nearly 5%, and are scaling back on growth initiated during the pandemic.
This latest round of layoffs follows Microsoft’s recent announcement of excellent sales and profits that exceeded Wall Street projections for the period from January 3rd to March. The company has consistently outperformed revenue expectations for the past four quarters.
In an earnings call in April, Amy Hood, the company’s chief financial officer, stated that Microsoft is aiming to “build agile, high-performance teams by streamlining management layers.” She also noted that revenues in March were 2% higher than the previous year, reflecting a slight decrease compared to late last year.
A consortium of US tech firms revealed partnerships in the Middle East as Donald Trump secured a $600 million commitment from Saudi Arabia toward an American AI company during his Gulf tour.
One of the most notable agreements was made by Nvidia, which sells a vast number of AI chips in Saudi Arabia. The first batch of the new “Blackwell” chips is set to be supplied to Humain, a Saudi AI startup funded by Western investments. Additionally, Cisco announced on Tuesday that it has entered into a contract with G42, a UAE-based AI firm, to support the development of the region’s AI sector.
Trump is expected to visit the UAE on Thursday. According to a report by The New York Times on Monday, his administration is negotiating a deal that would allow the UAE to acquire a significant quantity of Nvidia AI chips.
These transactions flow in both directions. The White House announced that Saudi company Datavolt plans to invest $20 billion in US AI data centers and energy infrastructure. Furthermore, Alphabet’s Google, Datavolt, Oracle, Salesforce, Advanced Micro Devices, and Uber are set to invest a total of $80 billion in transformative technologies across both nations, although specific details remain undisclosed.
Cisco has also committed to exploring collaboration opportunities with G42 in the UAE, and has formed an agreement to jointly develop US AI and cybersecurity technologies utilizing AI data center capabilities.
As Saudi Arabia strives to lessen its economic reliance on oil, it is positioning itself as an AI hub and an influential center for AI initiatives beyond the US. Recently, on Monday, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced plans to establish a human initiative focused on the development and management of AI technologies in Saudi Arabia. These companies aim to utilize NVIDIA’s platform to help cement Saudi Arabia’s status as a global leader in AI, GPU cloud computing, and digital transformation.
With the most advanced semiconductors being crucial for next-gen AI, Trump found himself in an advantageous negotiating position during his Middle Eastern visit. The AI chip dealings with Saudi Arabia starkly contrast the stringent restrictions placed on US commodity trading with China. Specifically, Nvidia is barred from supplying its latest models to Chinese firms, although it continues to compete against American companies in the AI sector, notably Deepseek.
vIDEO games have been portraying soccer since the 1970s, yet they seldom dive into the realm of fandom simulation. While players can engage in the whole international tournament through the FIFA series, the games rarely depict how competition seeps into the daily lives of supporters, how entire communities become engulfed in World Cup mania, and how it transforms into a national obsession. The quintessential experience of a major match for most is encapsulated in those glorious moments of shared excitement, along with the sounds and sights of real life, whether on television or massive pub screens in the company of friends and family.
This is where Despelote steps in, a beautifully crafted game that transports players back to childhood and memory, all set against the backdrop of Ecuador’s historic 2002 World Cup qualifying campaign. Julian, an 8-year-old football enthusiast—essentially a semi-autobiographical character based on the game’s co-designer Julian Cordello—witnesses his team’s thrilling win over Peru. However, four more matches stand between Ecuador and the World Cup finals in Japan and Korea. The game unfolds as a series of intimate, immersive scenes, allowing Julian to navigate through life, balancing his responsibilities and daydreams during various life moments such as shopping trips, car rides, and school lessons.
What was it like to be a child… Despelote. Photo: Panic Game
A critical scene unfolds in a town square or during a family gathering, where Julian finds himself in a space of freedom and agency. He listens intently to adult conversations, observes an elderly man feeding pigeons, greets the shopkeeper, and enjoys moments of play with friends. The world is rendered in a single-color photograph that evokes nostalgia and simplicity.
As the gameplay evolves, Julian’s childhood experiences transition into reflections on teenage gatherings and newfound responsibilities. The socio-political context of the World Cup campaign is woven into the narrative; Ecuador was grappling with a financial crisis, causing rampant inflation and the collapse of businesses. Discussions about the tournament permeate everyday life, impacting everything from street conversations to weddings.
Additionally, other facets of Ecuadorian culture and life are beautifully integrated into the experience. Explore music, cuisine, and the resurgence of the local film industry through *Leyteros*, directed by Sebastián Cordero, creator of the 1999 crime films *Latus*, *Latones*, and *Julianne Cordero*. In this way, real life interweaves seamlessly with the gaming world, reminiscent of a poetic and self-referential Agnès Varda film. One endearing sequence even features Julian captivated by a hooky simulation on the family console.
Despelote evokes some of the remarkable works in independent narrative game design, such as *Unfinished Swan*, *Gravityborn*, and *Virginia*, yielding a thrilling experience. Though centered around one young boy in a uniquely crafted Ecuador, it captures the almost universal influence of football as a unifying social narrative. The Dutch 1974 team, Maradona’s genius in 1986, Gascoigne’s legendary goal against Scotland in Euro 96—all these moments contribute to a collective spirit. As the final qualifying match approaches, a palpable excitement and tension emerge, prompting reflections on the creative process itself, beyond the confines of traditional gameplay. This experience is both engaging and formally innovative, packing significant depth into two hours of gameplay, posing more profound questions about memory, simulation, and identity than many expansive 100-hour epics.
In light of the recent blackouts in Spain and Portugal, what are the five key items you would recommend storing? Johannesburg Arena Ahmad
Feel free to send me a new question at nq@theguardian.com.
Responses from Readers
Living in a wildfire zone, I was evacuated in 2020 when half the town burned. You can only prepare so much for emergencies. Loss of electricity isn’t catastrophic; within a day, you’ll need some form of light or battery backup, non-cooking options, or a small camping stove. Using your car to charge devices for updates is essential, as well as keeping some drinking water on hand.
If the outage lasts long, anticipate potential plumbing issues. The discomfort of no electricity for a week was challenging, but somehow we made it through. Kiramango
Consider UPS (uninterruptible power supply) and satellite phones to stay connected when local cell sites fail and 4G networks go down. Socialism
The most effective tools are tall, robust, and healthy ones, especially if you’re shorter. A lot of challenges can be solved with a little extra height.
Having a car with enough fuel to reach relatives’ homes is crucial. A working fire or gas cooker can be a lifesaver, though I don’t have either.
Don’t forget candles—and matches—unless either of you is a smoker. An Ace battery-operated lantern with a carry handle is also great for illuminating your surroundings. Spare batteries and canned food are a must; don’t overlook powdered milk. SPOILHEAPSURFER
During the outage in Spain, I found a solar-powered radio with a hand-crank very useful, along with a portable power station, cash, bottled water, a headlamp, and a gas barbecue. KPNUTS888
A camping stove with gas, candles and matches, flashlights, firewood, and bottled water are essentials. hugothecat
These blackouts reminded us to always have cash on hand. Rebchlobrown
In the spirit of the Zombie Apocalypse, I suggest cooking through a survival guide and recipes. Before I dig into an emergency stash, we must stay prepared. Cambridgels
Water, lentil cakes, nuts, and a Roberts sports radio (compact enough for a pocket) are essential. Aside from water, the food needs to be lightweight in case you have to travel far. Monono
As an ex-Red Cross emergency volunteer in London, I’ve faced many crises, including blackouts. My “go bag” contains: Toilet paper Soap Toothbrush and toothpaste Change of clothes, sturdy footwear, raincoat Blanket First aid kit with extras like blister plasters and water filtration tablets Two large water bottles Four days’ worth of non-perishable snacks (like cereal bars) Battery and solar-powered radio Battery and solar-powered flashlight Maps and compass A small address book with the contact details of my loved ones.
As a British botanist in the mountains studying Portuguese flora during the outage, I realized the importance of a portable solar charger. Much of our communication relies on mobile phones, and connection is often unreliable. Being able to plan and inform others of your safety is vital.
Have cash on hand, as cards and ATMs may not work, making it essential for purchasing food and bottled water.
Sturdy shoes or boots are critical, as you might need to walk a significant distance.
Light sources are crucial; darkness can lead to hazards and can also take a toll on your mental state.
Lastly, maintain a sense of humor and adventure. It’s grounding to reconnect with the realities faced by those who lived in more challenging times and to appreciate the simpler comforts of life.
After navigating out of the mountains, I was relieved to find my anxious partner waiting for me. Astrid Cardamine
I found myself in New York during the Great Northeast Blackout in 2003. My plan to fly back to the UK was interrupted as the last person through security just as the lights went out and facilities ceased to function. Passengers came together, sharing food, drinks, phone cards, and support.
My preparations include a good book, a good sense of humor, kindness, hope, and something to share. Wooraifid
In the face of potential chaos, I advocate for a mindset of calm amid panic, moderation over despair, and humor amid ennui. theteedeehoo
Don’t skimp on toilet paper. Stock up! dorkalicious
Consider flexible lamps with paperback-sized solar panels; a few hours of sunlight can provide an hour of light. These fit easily into a backpack. They might not be effective during a nuclear winter, but they are handy otherwise. Has anyone mentioned chocolate? Gardenerofearth
Dark chocolate (78%), sweet popcorn, and if we’re being comprehensive, Jaffa Cakes, Pringles, and Hula Hoops. My survival list is quite elaborate. Emmaston
As a Californian with a comprehensive earthquake kit, remember to always have cash! Annually, we check our prep supplies and replace any expired food, batteries, and medications. jgurrrl
Gasoline or diesel-powered vehicles are essential; an angle grinder might just help you out of a tight spot. wyrcommunity
As a Canadian, I fill containers with water during storms and keep my supplies ready. We have a wood stove for warmth and snow melting, as well as camping gear for making coffee. Solar banks and lights, battery-operated options, and a gas generator—plus some beer—are all on hand. Marmarie
Do prepare, don’t panic; be ready for whatever might come next. bricklayersoption
Richard L. Gerwin, the American architect behind the hydrogen bomb who significantly influenced postwar defense policies, as well as advancements in space exploration and medicine, passed away on Tuesday at his residence in Scarsdale, New York.
His son Thomas confirmed the news of his passing.
At just 23, Dr. Gerwin became the mastermind behind the world’s first fusion bomb. He later served as a scientific advisor to several presidents, contributing to the development of Pentagon weaponry and satellite reconnaissance systems, while advocating for a balanced approach to Soviet-American nuclear policies during the Cold War, and promoting a verifiable agreement on nuclear arms control.
His mentor, Nobel laureate Enrico Fermi, referred to him as “the only true genius I’ve ever met,” yet Dr. Gerwin was not the sole creator of the hydrogen bomb. Hungarian physicist Edward Teller and Polish mathematician Stanislaw Ulam, who played pivotal roles in bomb theory, hold substantial claims to that title.
From 1951 to 1952, Dr. Gerwin served as an instructor at the University of Chicago and a consultant at the Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico, where he designed a real bomb based on Teller-Ulam’s concept. The experimental device, named Ivy Mike, was tested at the Marshall Islands in the Western Pacific.
The device was designed not merely as an explosive but rather to demonstrate the fusion concept. Weighing in at 82 tons, it was aircraft-unfriendly and resembled a massive thermos. Soviet scientists, who did not conduct similar tests until 1955, referred to it intermittently as the installation of thermonuclear nuclei.
On November 1, 1952, at the Enewetak atoll, an extraordinary fusion of atoms unleashed a blinding flash of light and a fireball measuring two miles in diameter, generating a force 700 times that of the bomb that obliterated Hiroshima 100 miles away in 1945.
As the development of American thermonuclear weapons remained cloaked in secrecy, Dr. Gerwin’s involvement in the creation of the first hydrogen bomb remained largely unknown to the public for decades, aside from those within government defense circles and select intelligence agencies. He was commonly referred to as Dr. Terror, and it wasn’t until later that he received public acknowledgment.
“According to Gerwin’s design, this test was conducted almost precisely as intended,” Dr. Teller acknowledged in a 1981 statement, recognizing the crucial role played by the young prodigy. However, this late recognition barely permeated the public consciousness.
Compared to later nuclear weapons, Dr. Gerwin’s bomb was rudimentary. Still, its sheer power evoked the ancient Hindu texts of the Bhagavad Gita, harkening back to the first atomic bomb test in New Mexico in 1945 and the haunting response from its creator, J. Robert Oppenheimer.
To Dr. Gerwin, however, it meant little.
“I didn’t consider the construction of a hydrogen bomb to be the most pivotal achievement in the world, or even in my life at the time,” he reflected in a 1984 interview, addressing feelings of guilt. “I believe the world would be better off without hydrogen bombs.”
Transitioning to IBM
Although the first hydrogen bomb was crafted to his specifications, Dr. Gerwin was absent during its explosion at Enewetak. “I’ve never witnessed a nuclear detonation,” he mentioned in a 2018 interview. “I didn’t want to spend the time there.”
By 1952, following the success of the hydrogen bomb project, he found himself at a crossroads: he could return to the University of Chicago, where he had earned his PhD under Fermi and was now an assistant professor, or leverage a more flexible role at International Business Machines Corporation. This position provided faculty appointments at the Thomas J. Watson Institute at Columbia University, allowing greater freedom in his research interests while also permitting him to continue consulting for the government in Los Alamos and Washington.
He opted for IBM, where he remained for 40 years before retiring.
At IBM, Dr. Gerwin engaged in a continuous series of applied research projects leading to groundbreaking patents, scientific papers, and technological innovations in computing, communications, and medicine. His work was vital in the advancement of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), high-speed laser printers, and subsequent touchscreen technologies.
An innovative maverick, Dr. Gerwin dedicated decades to exploring gravitational waves, as predicted by Einstein. In 2015, the costly detector he supported succeeded in detecting ripples, opening new frontiers in astrophysics.
Throughout this time, Dr. Gerwin also provided government consulting on national defense issues. With expertise in weapons of mass destruction, he aided in identifying Soviet targets and conducted research on various military aspects including nuclear submarines, military and civilian aircraft, as well as satellite reconnaissance and communications systems. Much of his work remained classified, keeping him largely unknown to the public.
He was a trusted advisor to numerous U.S. presidents including Dwight D. Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy, Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard M. Nixon, Jimmy Carter, and Bill Clinton. Notably, he was linked to President Ronald Reagan’s proposal for a space-based missile defense system dubbed Star Wars, aimed at safeguarding the nation from nuclear threats. However, the system was never realized.
One of Dr. Gerwin’s most notable controversies did not revolve around national security. In 1970, while on Nixon’s Scientific Advisory Committee, he opposed the administration’s support for the development of supersonic transport (SST) aircraft. He argued that SST would be prohibitively expensive, excessively noisy, and detrimental to both the environment and commercial airline operations, leading Congress to withdraw funding. The UK and France, however, pursued their own SST, the Concorde, but Dr. Gerwin’s predictions ultimately proved largely accurate, resulting in dwindling interest.
Conflict with the Military
Despite his modest appearance, Dr. Gerwin, with his slightly disheveled hair and gentle demeanor, became a legendary figure within the defense sector, crafting speeches and articles as well as testifying before lawmakers regarding what he described as the Pentagon’s misleading options.
Many of his disagreements with military bodies were long-standing and intense. These included disputes over the B-1 bomber, Trident nuclear submarines, the MX missile system, and the MX missile system—a network of mobile intercontinental ballistic missiles, notorious as one of history’s most lethal weaponry—all of which eventually formed part of America’s extensive arsenal.
Frustrated yet determined, Dr. Gerwin maintained his stance that America should uphold a strategic equilibrium with the Soviet Union and other nuclear powers. He argued against weapons policies that could jeopardize that balance, believing that Moscow cared more for the survival of its citizens than the loss of American lives.
Dr. Gerwin endorsed nuclear disarmament, including the 1979 Strategic Arms Limitation Treaty (SALT II), which was negotiated by President Carter and Soviet Premier Leonid Brezhnev. Nonetheless, he argued that mutually assured destruction remained essential for preserving peace.
In 2021, he joined 700 scientists and engineers, including 21 Nobel laureates, in an appeal to President Joseph R. Biden Jr. to commit that the United States would not initiate a nuclear strike in conflict. Their correspondence also advocated for the termination of the presidential authority to unilaterally order nuclear strikes, arguing that such limitations would safeguard against potential reckless decisions made by future presidents.
This notion was politically charged, and Biden did not follow through with such a commitment.
In a 1981 interview with Quest Magazine, Dr. Gerwin stated, “Nuclear weapons are consequential, and their power lies in the deterrent of massive destruction, which prevents nuclear confrontations.”
A Childhood with Curiosity
Richard Lawrence Gerwin was born on April 19, 1928, in Cleveland, Ohio, the elder of two sons to Robert and Leona (Schwartz) Gerwin. His father worked as an electronics instructor at a technical high school by day and at a film theater by night, while his mother was an attorney general. From a young age, Richard, affectionately known as Dick, exhibited remarkable intelligence and technical skills, having repaired household appliances by the age of five.
He and his brother Edward attended public schools in Cleveland. Dick graduated from Cleveland Heights High School in 1944 at the age of 16, and he obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Physics in 1947 from what is now known as Case Western Reserve University.
In 1947, he married Lois Levy, who passed away in 2018. He is survived by two sons, Thomas and Jeffrey, a daughter, Laura, and five grandchildren, along with one great-grandson.
Under the mentorship of Fermi, Dr. Gerwin earned his master’s degree in 1948 and his doctorate in 1949, achieving the highest score in the university’s history on doctoral exams. He joined the faculty, but under Fermi’s influence, he also spent his summers at Los Alamos Lab, where he made his mark on the hydrogen bomb project.
After retiring in 1993, Dr. Gerwin chaired the State Department’s Arms Management and Non-Proliferation Advisory Committee until 2001. He served on the committee in 1998 to evaluate the ballistic missile threats to the United States.
Dr. Gerwin’s home in Scarsdale was in close proximity to the IBM Watson Lab, which relocated from Columbia University to Yorktown Heights, Westchester County, in 1970.
He held faculty appointments at prestigious institutions such as Harvard, Cornell, and Columbia. Over his career, he secured 47 patents, authored over 500 research papers, and wrote significant books including “Nuclear Weapons and World Politics” (1977, co-authored with David C. Gompert and Michael Mandelbaum) and “Megawatts and Megatons: The Turning Points of the Nuclear Age” (2001, co-authored with Georges Charpak).
His life was chronicled in the biography “The True Genius: The Life and Work of Richard Gerwin, the Most Influential Scientist You’ve Never Heard Of” (2017) by Joel N. Sherkin.
Throughout his career, Dr. Gerwin was honored with numerous accolades, including the 2002 National Medal of Science, the highest award for scientific and engineering achievements in the U.S., presented by President George W. Bush, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom, awarded by President Barack Obama in 2016.
Obama praised him during a light-hearted introduction at the White House, stating, “He tinkered with his father’s film projector and never shied away from problems in need of solutions. From reconnaissance satellites to MRI, GPS technologies, and touchscreens—his fingerprints are everywhere. He even patented a shell washing machine.”
William J. Broad and Ash Wu contributed to this report.
MUCH reflects on the remarkable journey of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, a standout role-playing game crafted by a small team. (We recently hit 2 million sales.) This narrative is captivating amidst a landscape dominated by blockbuster flops, live service titles, and exorbitant budgets. The dedicated team has produced something lengthy, unique, and beautiful, priced at £40, leading to a win-win scenario for all involved. However, it’s not entirely accurate.
Sandfall Interactive, the French studio behind the game, comprises around 30 talented individuals. As noted by Rock Paper Shotgun, the credits list more contributors, from Korean animation teams to outsourced quality assurance testers, localization specialists, and performance artists who bring the game’s narrative and emotional depth to life.
When compared to the massive teams behind Final Fantasy titles (the clear inspiration for Sandfall), the comparatively small collective that developed Clair Obscur is noteworthy. What’s even more intriguing is that this small team has fashioned an exquisite French creation that resonates with us all. To the distress of my partner, I opted for the French voice acting with English subtitles to amplify my immersive experience.
Set in the Belle Époque-inspired realm of Clair Obscur, players encounter a foreboding entity known as Paintress Daubs, who has traversed ominous totem numbers annually, descending from a population of 100. (This game and Neva are the only titles in recent memory that have brought tears to my eyes. The beginning.) As the game counts down from 34 to 33, a courageous, slightly magical 30th expedition embarks towards a continent laden with sedatives, facing death in their quest to halt the cycle. The city is stunning, and everyone is dressed immaculately. Also, nothing seemingly poses a threat every few moments.
The most quintessentially French experience you’ve ever had… Claire’s Obscur: Expedition 33. Photo: Sandfall Interactive
Many expeditions have previously faced this fate. As you navigate, you encounter gruesome remnants of these journeys, alongside their recorded accounts left to assist future travelers. Beginning in a ravaged Paris, the distorted Eiffel Tower looms over a picturesque Dali-esque horizon. The game feels like a waltz through a renowned museum on the brink of being engulfed by a black hole. One notable area is a desolate sea, featuring the wreck of a previous expedition, entwined with the carcass of a leviathan, adorned with waves of seaweed fluttering in the absent currents. It’s breathtaking but perilous. You must swiftly master a complex battle system and survive the initial boss encounters.
Clair Obscur’s combat draws inspiration from both classic and contemporary Japanese RPGs. Dynamic and vibrant, you can charge fireballs and time your dodges against the flailing fists of stone automatons. Combining uniquely distinctive character skills is vital. One character wields a rapier, shifting stances with every strike, while another engages with an enigmatic system of Sun and Moon Tarot cards. If this all seems excessively luxurious, it is — and I relish it. The battle menu is a Tinker’s dream, allowing for the development of esoteric powers and skills to create captivating combo attacks.
What captivates me most about this game is its uniqueness; it doesn’t mimic any other title. While most games riff on a handful of predictable franchises: Star Wars, Lord of the Rings, Marvel, this game sources inspiration from an entirely different aesthetic and theme pool. It emerges as a Baroque fantasy, a tale encompassing existentialism, love, death, and heritage — articulated through a European narrative style with Japanese-inspired action and artistry. Although it plays differently, its peculiar characteristics evoke memories of last year’s outstanding title, Repantazio. (There seems to be a notable connection between intellectually ambitious RPGs and perplexing names.)
Clair Obscur further exemplifies the impressive capabilities of game development tools available today. If you’re curious how a small team achieved this high-end aesthetic, that constitutes a significant part of the explanation. It instills a sense of optimism regarding the future of mid-tier game development, nestled between blockbusters and indie projects. Many of the most intriguing titles emerged in the early 2000s and 2010s. Perhaps some larger publishers consider this approach to be overly French, but Sandfall has successfully produced it nonetheless. Expedition 33 serves not only as a noteworthy commercial triumph but also as a beacon of creativity in the gaming sphere.
What to play
Exciting, one-minute thrill…Fate: Dark Ages. Photo: Bethesda
The upcoming Doom game is generating buzz, with reviews indicating it’s a glorious heavy metal spectacle of violence. Whether you’re obliterating demons, impaling them with spikes, shredding them with chainsaw shields, or summoning massive hellish creatures from colossal robots, Destiny: Dark Ages boasts a vaguely medieval flair, with slower and more intimate combat relative to its predecessors in the franchise (as suggested by the title), yet remains exhilarating.
Available on: Xbox, PS5, PC Estimated playtime: Over 20 hours
What to read
Chaos Machine…Grand Theft Auto VI. Photo: Rockstar Games
Grand Theft Auto VI has been delayed until May next year and remains a mystery in the 2025 release calendar. Kotaku indicates some serious rescheduling is occurring behind the scenes leading up to the summer announcement.
The prestigious National Play Museum of America has announced four new games among its Hall of Fame: Defender, GoldenEye 007, Quake, and arguably suitable for Tanaka. They overcame the candidacy of Angry Birds from Age of Empires.
Podcasts and video collectives have sprung up following last week’s industry media drama, with A Giant Bomb becoming independent and contributing to the growing stability of games media outlets supported by worker-owned initiatives.
“Read the book, Roubaix”… Elizabeth from Bioshock Infinite. Photo: 2K Game
Leader Travis submitted this week’s question:
“I’m considering launching a book club-style video game group. Two questions: what should I name it, and which games would you recommend for discussion?”
This is a fantastic idea, reminding me of an attempt I made ages ago as an IGN podcast, though I can’t recall its name. Was it “press the push”? “Save Points”? LFG? For such groups, I lean towards shorter games (so everyone can participate). I’d be thrilled to discuss Neva for its environmental themes and parenting narratives or Life is Strange for its rich, intricate storytelling with supernatural elements, or even a variety of games like While I’m Waiting, which prompted profound thoughts. This would surely be more engaging than merely debating whether Assassin’s Creed is relevant.
I asked my partner for his video game book club name suggestion, and he offered “Text Adventure.” My other friend Tom suggested “Mountain of Shame.” What do you think, reader? Any ideas?
If you have a question for the block or feedback on the newsletter, feel free to hit reply or email us at butingbuttons@theguardian.com.
In recent years, the popularity of electric vehicles has surged, fueled by a $7,500 tax credit from the federal government aimed at making purchases more affordable.
However, the budget bill unveiled by House Republicans on Monday suggests eliminating this tax credit. This proposal also introduces new limitations on other tax incentives that motivate automakers to invest significant sums into establishing new battery facilities in the United States.
Starting next year, the legislation is set to abolish the $7,500 tax credit for new electric vehicle buyers, as well as a $4,000 credit applicable to used car and truck acquisitions.
If signed into law, these changes could lead to a spike in electric vehicle sales in the near term, as consumers rush to take advantage of tax credits before they vanish. Nonetheless, analysts predict that sales may drop or slow drastically once the credits are no longer available.
“This will undoubtedly slow down the adoption rate significantly,” remarked Stephanie Valdez Streaty, director of industry insights at Cox Automotive.
Cox anticipates that electric vehicles will comprise 10% of all new vehicle sales this year. If Congress does not alter the tax credit, that figure is expected to increase by nearly a third by 2030, according to their estimates.
However, if Congress eliminates the credits, Valdez Streaty projects that electric vehicles could make up only 20-24% of new car sales by 2030.
Eliminating these credits would further financially burden automakers who are already dealing with increased costs stemming from a 25% tariff on imported cars and auto parts established during the Trump administration.
The Republican tax proposals could adversely affect numerous automakers striving to launch new models, particularly General Motors and Ford, both of which have made substantial investments in their manufacturing facilities and supply chains with the goal of producing millions of electric vehicles annually.
GM has inaugurated two battery plants located in Ohio and Tennessee, developed through a joint venture with LG Energy Solution. Ford is currently constructing three battery plants, including one in Michigan, in collaboration with two South Korean firms, SK-ON, in Kentucky and Tennessee.
Both Detroit-based automakers are also investing in mining operations to secure domestic lithium supplies, which is crucial for battery production.
Tesla, the leading electric vehicle seller in the U.S., is also facing challenges. Its sales have decreased in recent months due to consumer backlash against CEO Elon Musk, associated with the Trump administration, coupled with the absence of a new affordable model.
However, Tesla enjoys several advantages. While most manufacturers still incur losses on electric vehicles, Tesla has been profitable for over a year, allowing the company to lower prices to stimulate demand if credits are eliminated. Additionally, Tesla relies less on imported components compared to other U.S. manufacturers.
Many large automakers are racing to catch up with Tesla in the electric vehicle landscape, particularly in states with a significant number of Republican lawmakers, by establishing numerous new factories.
Toyota has constructed a battery facility in North Carolina, while Hyundai is set to begin electric vehicle production at its Georgia site, which will also house battery manufacturing. Stellantis, along with its partners, is currently developing two battery plants in Indiana, with the local economies relying on the jobs these plants will create.
Should tax regulations undergo significant changes, automakers may reconsider, scale back, or postpone their plans.
“If the government wishes for the U.S. to effectively compete with China and the rest of the world in the expansive EV sector, as well as encourage GM and Ford to make considerable long-term investments in EV development and domestic production, we must enhance the tax credits instead of causing whiplash,” Valdez Streaty stated.
China dominates global electric vehicle production and is a primary supplier of essential materials for batteries and electric motors, such as processed lithium and rare earth minerals. The elimination of the tax credit would significantly hinder the U.S. automotive industry’s ability to keep pace.
“This could adversely impact our global standing and the competitive capabilities of the U.S. automotive sector,” Valdez Streaty remarked. “It’s likely to slow us down when we are already trailing China.”
Neither Ford nor Stellantis had comments to share, and neither did the policy group, the Automotive Innovation Alliance.
The federal government initially introduced $7,500 in credits during President Barack Obama’s administration, maintaining this incentive throughout President Trump’s first term. These credits were subsequently updated and expanded under the Inflation Reduction Act, enacted by President Joseph R. Biden Jr.
Given the higher costs of electric vehicles compared to traditional combustion engines, such credits have been vital in encouraging consumer purchases.
The credits are applicable to sports utility vehicles and pickups priced under $80,000, as well as sedans priced below $55,000. The vehicle must be assembled in North America, with the battery meeting specifications based on the country of origin for its materials. Additionally, to qualify, individual buyers must earn less than $150,000 per year, while joint filers must earn under $300,000.
Many of these criteria do not apply to leased vehicles. However, tax credits for cars and trucks are typically transferred to leasing companies, which are divisions of automakers. Many leasing firms have passed on their savings to customers, contributing to the notable increase in electric vehicle leases.
According to Valdez Streaty, approximately 595,000 electric vehicles were leased in 2024, a significant rise from roughly 96,000 in 2022, prior to the availability of leasing incentives.
OpenAI is reportedly negotiating to acquire Windsurf, an AI-driven programming tool, for approximately $3 billion, according to two informed sources.
This acquisition could potentially draw in thousands of new customers from the tech sector, as it swiftly embraces tools like Windsurf, which enables instant code generation.
Should the deal go through, it would represent OpenAI’s largest acquisition to date, aiming to broaden its offerings beyond its well-known chatbot ChatGPT. Last year, OpenAI acquired Rockset, a startup aimed at assisting businesses in constructing the foundational elements of large-scale computer networks.
Windsurf, previously recognized as Codeum, was valued at $1.25 billion following a $150 million funding round led by the venture capital firm General Catalyst last year.
The agreement is not finalized yet, as the two anonymous sources indicated. Initial reports of discussions have surfaced previously on Bloomberg.
OpenAI currently offers technology that enables users to create their own code. In fact, Windsurf utilizes OpenAI technology or similar systems from firms like Google and Anthropic for code generation.
About four years ago, researchers from companies such as OpenAI and Google started developing systems to analyze extensive text data sourced from the Internet, including digital books, Wikipedia articles, and chat logs. By recognizing patterns within this content, these systems can generate text, including poetry and news articles.
What surprised many was that researchers were able to create their own programming code. Currently, developers use these systems to produce code and integrate it into large software projects with tools like Windsurf and Microsoft’s Copilot.
(Times has filed a lawsuit against OpenAI and its partner Microsoft, accusing them of copyright violation regarding AI Systems news content. Both OpenAI and Microsoft have denied these allegations.)
Developing technologies that enhance coding tools is incredibly costly for companies such as OpenAI, and startups face pressure to generate revenue.
OpenAI anticipates earning around $3.7 billion this year, according to financial documents reviewed by The New York Times. The company expects revenues to reach $11.6 billion next year.
In March, OpenAI concluded a $40 billion funding round, which valued the company at $300 billion, making it one of the most valuable private enterprises globally, alongside prominent players like TikTok parent company ByteDance and SpaceX. This funding round was led by Japan’s SoftBank.
However, scrutiny is placed on this transaction as OpenAI plans to revise its complex corporate structure, and failure to accomplish this by year-end could allow SoftBank to reduce its overall investment to $20 billion.
Early on a recent Tuesday morning, hundreds of Uber and Lyft drivers gathered outside Los Angeles International Airport, forming a line that wrapped around the block as dawn broke. The waiting began at 5am.
Shortly, the line of cars would make its way into a fenced parking area located a mile from the arrival terminal, officially known as the Transportation Network Company staging area. Drivers refer to it as a “pen,” waiting for passengers to disembark from their flights.
Once a lucrative spot for rides, this area now sees very few vehicles picking up fares. Veronica Hernandez, 50, parked her white Chevy Malibu at 5:26am and opened the Lyft app for her queue position: 156th. Nearly an hour and a half would pass before she got her first ride.
“Some days are great; others are not,” Hernandez said, scrolling through her app’s revenue report for the week: $205, $245, $179. “Fingers crossed for a good day.”
Like many drivers nationwide, Hernandez has experienced a noticeable decline in income in recent years, even as demand for rides appears higher than ever. Many gig workers have already ceased operations due to rising costs for gas and car insurance. These challenges, while less symbolic than LAX, reflect a tough environment for gig workers to thrive.
“This used to be a genuine way to earn a living,” Hernandez lamented. “Now, it barely keeps you afloat.”
In the early days of app-based services like Uber, Lyft, and DoorDash, a flood of people signed on as drivers. The allure of earning money by driving at their own convenience captivated everyone from seasoned drivers seeking extra work to individuals escaping the 9-to-5 grind.
The premise was that drivers operate as independent contractors, bearing their own expenses without health insurance or other employee benefits while enjoying flexible hours without needing to sign up for shifts.
Initially, earnings were robust, with drivers frequently taking home substantial weekly incomes as Uber and Lyft prioritized growth over profitability, incurring billion-dollar losses. After going public, the focus shifted to profitability, resulting in reduced wages.
Today, many drivers are struggling, with total earnings lagging behind inflation. Last year, Uber drivers reported an average weekly revenue of $513, marking a 3.4% decrease from the previous year, despite working an average of over six minutes per trip, according to Gridwise, an app that helps drivers track their income. In Los Angeles, Uber’s average hourly profit margin has dropped by 21% since 2021, according to the same source.
In 2019, LAX implemented a new system to alleviate heavy traffic at the arrivals terminal. Instead of curbside pickups by Uber and Lyft drivers, passengers must walk up to 20 minutes to designated pick-up points near Terminal 1. Unfortunately, this change often goes unnoticed by passengers.
That morning, the atmosphere was grim, marked by the odor of port-a-potties and vehicles parked for hours. Drivers awaited “unicorn” rides, which would pay a reasonable rate of over $1.50 per mile.
By 10am, chaos engulfed the pen. Around 300 drivers were in a virtual queue vying for approximately 200 available spots in the parking lot. Consequently, new arrivals often had to leave the lot to pick up passengers, resulting in blocked cars and the sound of shouting competing with the growl of jets flying overhead every two minutes.
Sergio Avedan, a gig driver and founder of Ride Hailing Blog The ride-sharing man, settled into the pen at 10:36am on that Tuesday. After reaching the parking lot, he checked his queue position: 256th.
When he glanced at the Uber and Lyft apps, rides appeared but were often rejected by other drivers ahead of him. The payouts were dismal: $9.87 for a 13-mile trip, $19.97 for a 25-mile trip. He turned them all down.
“We call this ‘reclining with decency’,” Avedan remarked as he reclined his seat back.
To pass the time, some drivers smoked or played cards, while others napped in their vehicles or watched YouTube videos. Many scoured for phone chargers and cleaning supplies for their cars, leading to occasional tension among different groups as competition for rides intensified, sometimes splitting along racial lines.
An alternate economy flourishes within the pen to support the drivers. Outside the parking area, a taco truck offers food, while inside, some venders sell homemade Chinese cuisine from their car trunks, exchanging bowls of wonton soup for cash.
Frustrations have led some drivers to express their anger by scribbling messages on the walls of the port-a-potties, blaming Uber and its executives for their plummeting earnings, especially after being unexpectedly locked out of their accounts.
Rif Andrius, who sat in the back of his Toyota Sienna, refreshed the Uber app while smoking. The 57-year-old Iranian driver reported earning around $3,000 weekly before Uber’s operational costs surged during the pandemic, but that figure has sharply declined. Checking his latest weekly earnings, he saw amounts of $1,670, $1,700, and $1,053.
“I’ve got to provide for my family,” said Andrius, who has a wife and daughter. “Now, I can’t manage it.”
The New York Times reached out to Uber regarding the operating conditions at LAX in 2023, to which the company acknowledged the ongoing challenges. Yet, little has changed since that inquiry.
Uber stated that multiple factors are influencing the decline in earnings. In Los Angeles, the percentage of fares retained by the company hasn’t increased, while liability insurance costs have soared, currently making up 43% of rider fares, per the company’s data.
The company also indicated that ride demand at the airport has significantly decreased amid the introduction of a new $4 surcharge for LAX drivers.
LAX’s public relations department did not respond to our requests for comments.
Lyft spokesperson CJ Macklin mentioned that discussions are ongoing with LAX to create a new holding lot for ride-share drivers as part of the airport’s $5.5 billion renovation plan, which includes light rail connections between terminals aimed at alleviating traffic.
“In a year, LAX will look entirely different. I’m looking forward to providing smoother and faster experiences for drivers, riders, and the whole city,” stated Uber spokesperson Meghan Casserly.
However, many drivers felt weighed down by the current system. Even when a seemingly decent ride request came through, the frustration of waiting hours tended to sap their motivation.
“There are drivers who are entirely unaware of what they’re doing. They get passengers and say they’re going to take them somewhere, but they don’t even know the details,” lamented Pablo Gomez, an Uber driver who regularly works at LAX. “They drop passengers off and just go along with the flow without a clue as to why.”
Drivers like Avedan and Gomez are investing time to mentor their peers, sharing strategies to optimize earnings. Nevertheless, Gomez empathizes with those who continually chase elusive fares, comparing it to gambling.
“Wasting time feeds into an addict’s mentality. You’re forever chasing that ride, hoping for a big win,” he admitted.
As the pen closed at 2am, some drivers began searching for parking in surrounding neighborhoods, preparing to sleep in their cars until the lot reopened at 5am.
At 11pm Tuesday, Hernandez was perched on the hood of a car when ride requests dribbled in. She noted offers popping up on her phone tagged for two passengers ages 25 and 26. In the gaps between rides, she anxiously scanned her emails, hoping for responses regarding job applications submitted to a doctor’s office and a warehouse.
Eventually, a ride came through that would take her near her home in Montebello, a 50-minute drive east. Although the fare was only $28 for a 27-mile trip—far from the ideal “unicorn” ride she was after—she accepted it.
“It’s not the best rate,” she acknowledged. “But you need to make it worthwhile.”
In February, Ella Stapleton, a senior at Northeastern University, was going over her notes from an organizational behavior class when she stumbled upon something unusual. Was that a ChatGPT question from her professor?
Within a document created by her business professor for a leadership model lesson, she noticed instructions to chat “Expand all areas. More in depth and concrete.” Following these instructions was a list of leadership traits, both positive and negative, complete with definitions and bullet points.
Stapleton texted a classmate.
“Did you see the notes he uploaded to Canvas?” she asked, referring to the university’s software for course materials. “He created it using ChatGPT.”
“OMG STOP,” her classmate responded. “What’s going on?”
Curious, Stapleton began to investigate. She went through the professor’s slides and discovered more signs of AI involvement: inconsistencies in the text, skewed images, and glaring mistakes.
She was frustrated. Given the school’s tuition and reputation, she expected a high-quality education. This course was crucial for her business major. The syllabus clearly prohibited “academic fraudulent activities,” including the misuse of AI and chatbots.
“He tells us not to use it, yet he uses it himself,” she remarked.
Stapleton lodged a formal complaint with Northeastern’s business school, citing the inappropriate use of AI and other concerns about teaching methods, demanding a refund of the tuition for that class, which was over $8,000—about a quarter of her semester’s total.
When ChatGPT launched in late 2022, it created a whirlwind of concern across educational institutions It’s incredibly easy. Students tasked with writing essays could easily let the tool handle it in mere seconds. Some institutions banned it, while others introduced AI detection services, despite concerns about their accuracy.
However, the tide has turned. Nowadays, students are scrutinizing professors for their heavy reliance on AI, voicing complaints on platforms that analyze course content, using terms like “ChatGPT is” essential” and “algorithmic.” They call out hypocrisy and make financial arguments, insisting they deserve instruction from humans—not algorithms they can access for free.
On the other side, professors have claimed they use AI chatbots as a means to enhance education. An instructor interviewed by The New York Times stated that the chatbot streamlined their workload and acted as an automated teaching assistant.
The number of educators using these tools is on the rise. In a National Survey conducted last year, 18% of over 1,800 higher education instructors identified as frequent users of generative AI tools. This year’s follow-up surveys have nearly doubled that figure, according to Tyton Partners, the consultancy behind the study. AI companies are eager to facilitate this shift, with startups like OpenAI and Anthropic recently releasing enterprise versions of chatbots designed specifically for educational institutions.
(The Times is suing OpenAI for copyright infringement, as the company allegedly used news content without permission.)
Generative AI is clearly here to stay, yet universities are grappling with adapting to evolving standards. Professors are navigating this learning curve and, like Stapleton’s instructor, often misinterpret the risks of technology and student negligence.
Make a grade
Last fall, 22-year-old Marie submitted a three-page essay for her online anthropology course at Southern New Hampshire University. Upon checking her grades on the school’s platform, she was pleased to see an A. However, in the comments, her professor made multiple references to using ChatGPT, which included a grading rubric meant for chatbots and a request for “great feedback” for Marie.
“To me, it felt like the professor didn’t even read my work,” Marie shared, asking to remain anonymous. She noted that the temptation to lean on AI in academia was like having a “third job” for many instructors managing numerous students.
Marie confronted her professor during a Zoom meeting about this issue. The professor claimed that they had read her essays but used ChatGPT as an approved guide.
Robert McAuslan, Vice President of AI at Southern New Hampshire, expressed that schools should embrace AI’s potential to revolutionize education, emphasizing guidelines for faculty and students to “ensure this technology enhances creativity rather than replaces it.” A do’s and don’ts were recommended to encourage authentic, human-focused feedback among teachers utilizing tools like ChatGPT and Grammarly.
“These tools should not replace the work,” Dr. McAuslan stated. “Instead, they should enhance an already established process.”
After encountering a second professor who also appeared to provide AI-generated feedback, Marie opted to transfer to another university.
Paul Schoblin, an English professor at Ohio University in Athens, empathized with her frustration. “I’m not a huge fan of that,” Dr. Schoblin remarked after hearing about Marie’s experience. He also holds a position as an AI Faculty Fellow, tasked with developing effective strategies to integrate AI in teaching and learning.
“The real value you add as an educator comes from the feedback you provide to your students,” he noted. “It’s the personal connection we foster with our students, as they are directly impacted by our words.“
Though advocating for the responsible integration of AI in education, Dr. Schoblin asserted that it shouldn’t merely simplify instructors’ lives. Students must learn to utilize technology ethically and responsibly. “If mistakes happen, the repercussions could lead to job loss,” he warned.
He cited a recent incident where a Vanderbilt University School of Education official responded to a mass shooting at another university. An email sent to students emphasized community bonds. However, a sentence disclosed that ChatGPT was used to compose it. Students criticized the outsourcing of empathy, prompting involved parties to temporarily resign.
However, not all situations are straightforward. Dr. Schoblin remarked that establishing reasonable rules is challenging, as acceptable AI usage can differ based on the subject. His department’s Centre for Teaching, Learning, and Assessment has instead emphasized principles regarding the integration of AI, specifically eschewing a “one-size-fits-all” algorithm.
The Times reached out to numerous professors whose students had noted AI usage in online reviews. Some instructors admitted to using ChatGPT to create quizzes for computer science programming assignments, even as students reported that these quizzes didn’t always make sense. They also used it for organizing feedback or to make it more positive. As experts in their fields, they noted instances of AI “hallucinations,” where false information was generated.
There was no consensus among them on what practices were acceptable. Some educators utilized ChatGPT to assist students in reflecting on their work, while others denounced such practices. Some stressed the importance of maintaining transparency with students regarding generative AI use, while others opted to conceal their usage due to student wariness about technology.
Nevertheless, most felt that Stapleton’s experience at Northeastern—where her professor appeared to use AI for generating class notes and slides—was unjustifiable. That was Dr. Schoblin’s view, provided the professor edited the AI outputs to fit his expertise. He likened it to the longstanding practice in academia of utilizing content from third-party publishers, such as lesson plans and case studies.
Professors using AI for slide generation are considered “some sort of monsters.” “It’s absurd to me,” he remarked.
Steroid calculator
Christopher Kwaramba, a business professor at Virginia Commonwealth University, referred to ChatGPT as a time-saving partner. He mentioned that lesson plans that once required days to create could now be completed in mere hours. He employs it to generate datasets for fictional retail chains used in exercises designed to help students grasp various statistical concepts.
“I see it as the age of steroid calculators,” Dr. Kwaramba stated.
Dr. Kwaramba noted that support hours for students are increasing.
Conversely, other professors, such as Harvard’s David Malan, reported that AI diminished student attendance during office hours. Dr. Malan, a computer science professor, integrated a custom AI chatbot into his popular introductory programming course, allowing hundreds of students access for assistance with coding assignments.
Dr. Malan had to refine his approach to ensure that chatbots only offer guidance, not complete answers. Most of the 500 students surveyed in 2023 found the resource beneficial, particularly in its inaugural year.
By freeing up common inquiries about referral materials during office hours, Dr. Malan and his teaching assistant can now focus on meaningful interactions with students, like weekly lunches and hackathons. “These are more memorable moments and experiences,” Dr. Malan reflected.
Katy Pearce, a communications professor at the University of Washington, developed a tailored AI chatbot trained on prior assignments she assessed, enabling students to receive feedback on their writing mimicking her style at any hour, day or night. This is particularly advantageous for those hesitant to seek help.
“Can we foresee a future where many graduate teaching assistants might be replaced by AI?” she pondered. “Yes, absolutely.”
What implications would this have on the future pipeline for professors emerging from the Teaching Assistant ranks?
“That will undoubtedly pose a challenge,” Dr. Pearce concluded.
The moment you are taught
After filing her complaint with Northeastern, Stapleton participated in several meetings with business school officials. In May, the day after graduation, she learned that her tuition reimbursement wouldn’t be granted.
Her professor, Rick Arrowwood, expressed regret about the incident. Dr. Arrowwood, an adjunct with nearly two decades of teaching experience, spoke about using class materials, claiming that AI tools provided a “fresh perspective” on ChatGPT, search engine confusion, and presentation generators labeled Gamma. Initially, he mentioned that the outputs appeared impressive.
“In hindsight, I wish I had paid closer attention,” he commented.
While he shared materials online with students, he clarified that he had not used them during class sessions, only recognizing the errors when school officials inquired about them.
This awkward episode prompted him to understand that faculty members must be more cautious with AI and be transparent with students about its usage. Northeastern recently established an official AI policy that mandates attribution every time an AI system is employed and requires a review of output for “accuracy and quality.” A Northeastern spokesperson stated that the institution aims to “embrace the use of artificial intelligence to enhance all facets of education, research, and operations.”
“I cover everything,” Dr. Arrowwood asserted. “If my experience can serve as a learning opportunity for others, then that’s my happy place.”
Nine years ago, a prominent artificial intelligence scientist picked an at-risk profession.
“Individuals should stop pursuing a career as a radiologist now,” stated Jeffrey Hinton, asserting that AI would undoubtedly surpass human performance in this area within five years.
Currently, radiologists—medical imaging specialists diagnosing and treating diseases—are still in significant demand. Recent studies indicate a steady workforce growth projected by the American College of Radiation until 2055.
Dr. Hinton, who earned a Nobel Prize in physics for his groundbreaking AI research last year, has indeed had a monumental influence on technology.
This is evident at Mayo Clinic, one of the nation’s premier healthcare systems, with its primary campus located in Rochester, Minnesota. In recent years, Mayo Clinic has embraced AI technology to analyze images, automate everyday tasks, detect medical issues, and forecast diseases. AI also acts as a “second opinion.”
“But will it replace radiologists? We don’t believe so,” said Dr. Matthew Colestrom, chairman of radiology at Mayo Clinic. “We understand how challenging this work is and its interrelations.”
Computer scientists, industry experts, and policymakers have long debated the future of AI in the workforce. Will it serve as a smart assistant, enhance human performance, or be a robotic agent that displaces millions of workers?
The conversation intensifies as the cutting-edge technology behind chatbots appears to be advancing more quickly than anticipated. Leaders from companies like OpenAI and others forecast that AI will automate most cognitive tasks within a few years. Conversely, numerous researchers predict a more gradual transformation, akin to the introduction of electricity and the Internet, consistent with historical technological disruptions.
The potential obsolescence of radiologists serves as an illustrative example. Thus far, AI has proven to be a robust medical asset that enhances efficiency and augments human abilities, rather than replacing them.
Radiology has been a primary focus in the development and implementation of AI in healthcare. Of the more than 1,000 AI applications approved by the Food and Drug Administration for medical purposes, approximately 75% pertain to radiology. AI excels in identifying and assessing specific abnormalities, such as lung lesions and breast tumors.
“While there have been remarkable advancements, these AI tools mainly focus on general cases,” remarked Dr. Charles E. Kern Jr., a radiology professor at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine and editor of the journal. Radiology: Artificial Intelligence.
Radiologists do much more than merely examine images. They provide consultations to other physicians and surgeons, engage with patients, compile reports, and scrutinize medical histories. After detecting potential tissue anomalies, they interpret the implications for individual patients based on their unique medical backgrounds, drawing from years of expertise.
David Ortl, a labor economist at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, stated that AI “underestimates the intricacy of work performed by humans.”
At Mayo Clinic, AI tools are being researched, developed, and customized to align with the hectic schedules of physicians. Since Dr. Hinton’s prediction, the radiology staff has expanded by 55%, now exceeding 400 radiologists.
Prompted by concerns and advancements in AI-related image recognition in 2016, radiology leaders assembled a team to evaluate the potential effects of the technology.
“Our initial thought was to leverage this technology for our betterment,” recalled Dr. Callstrom. “That was our primary objective.”
A decision was made to invest. Today, the Department of Radiology boasts a 40-member AI team, featuring AI scientists, radiation researchers, data analysts, and software engineers. They have created a diverse suite of AI tools, from tissue analysis instruments to disease prediction models.
The team collaborates with specialists like Dr. Theodora Pototzke, who focuses on the kidneys, bladder, and reproductive organs. She regards the radiologist’s role as that of a “secondary physician,” clearly conveying imaging findings and providing guidance.
Dr. Pototzke employs AI tools to gauge kidney volume. Growth in the kidneys, when coupled with cysts, can signal a decline in function even before changes are detectable in blood tests. Previously, she measured kidney volume mainly by hand, akin to using an on-screen ruler, resulting in variable outcomes and lengthy processes.
Serving as a consultant, end user, and tester for the department’s AI team, Dr. Pototzke assisted in designing software with color coding for various conditions and evaluating measurements.
Now, she can simply retrieve an image on a computer, click an icon, and instantly see the kidney volume measurements. This saves her 15-30 minutes with each kidney scan and consistently yields accurate results.
“This is a fantastic example of effectively utilizing AI for increased efficiency and accuracy,” Dr. Pototzke commented. “AI can augment, enhance, and quantify processes, but I am not in a position to relinquish interpretative duties regarding technology.”
In the hall, staff radiologist Dr. Francis Buffer elaborated on the various AI applications prevalent in the field, often operating behind the scenes. He stated that manufacturers of MRI and CT scanners incorporate AI algorithms to expedite image acquisition and enhance quality.
AI also autonomously identifies images with the highest likelihood of abnormal findings, effectively informing the radiologist, “focus here first.” Another application scans for heart or lung clots, even when the medical emphasis lies elsewhere.
“AI is currently integrated throughout our workflow,” noted Dr. Buffer.
In total, Mayo Clinic implements over 250 AI models, both developed in-house and sourced from vendors. The Radiology and Heart Disease divisions are the largest consumers of these technologies.
In some circumstances, emergent technologies unveil insights surpassing human capabilities. One AI model analyzes ECG data to forecast patients likely to develop cardiac fibrillation.
Research initiatives in radiology utilize AI algorithms to detect subtle transformations in pancreatic shape and texture, potentially identifying cancers up to two years before conventional diagnoses. The Mayo Clinic team is collaborating with other healthcare organizations to further validate these algorithms with more data.
“Mathematical modeling enables us to perceive what the human eye cannot,” mentioned Dr. John Haramka, president of the Mayo Clinic Platform, overseeing the digital initiatives of the health system.
Dr. Halamka, an advocate for AI, is confident that this technology will revolutionize medicine.
“In five years, failing to use AI will be considered a form of medical malpractice,” he suggested. “However, this means that humans and AI will collaborate closely.”
Dr. Hinton concurs. Reflecting on his previous statements, he believes he was overly broad in 2016, clarifying that his remarks were solely about image analysis, and while he may have misjudged the timeline, he maintains his original stance.
Over the years, most medical imaging interpretations are made through a partnership between AI and radiologists, which not only enhances accuracy but also significantly increases radiologists’ efficiency, according to Dr. Hinton.
For the first time, AI tools are being utilized to evaluate public feedback on government consultations, with plans for broader adoption to help conserve money and staff resources.
The tool, referred to as “consultation,” was initially implemented by the Scottish government to gather insights on regulating non-surgical cosmetic procedures like lip fillers.
According to the UK government, this tool is employed to analyze responses and deliver results comparable to human-generated outputs, with ongoing development aimed at reviewing additional consultations.
It examined over 2,000 responses while highlighting key themes, which were subsequently verified and enhanced by experts from the Scottish government.
The government has developed the consultation tool as part of a new suite of AI technologies known as “Humphrey.” They assert it will “accelerate operations in Whitehall and decrease consulting expenditures.”
Officials claim that, through the 500 consultations conducted each year, this innovative tool could save UK taxpayers £20 million annually, freeing up approximately 75,000 hours for other tasks.
Michael Lobatos, a professor of artificial intelligence at the University of Edinburgh, notes that while the benefits of consultations are significant, the potential for AI bias should not be disregarded.
“The intention is for humans to always oversee the process, but in practice, people may not have the time to verify every detail, leading to bias creeping in,” he stated.
Lobatos also expressed concerns that domestic and international “bad actors” could potentially compromise AI integrity.
“It’s essential to invest in ensuring our systems are secure and effective, which requires significant resources,” he remarked.
“Maximizing benefits while minimizing harm demands more initial investment and training than is typically expected. Ministers and civil servants might see this merely as a cost-saving quick fix, but it is crucial and complex.”
The government asserts that the consultation tool operates 1,000 times faster than humans and is 400 times less expensive, with conclusions “remarkably similar” to those of experts, albeit with less detail.
Discussing the launch of the tool, technology secretary Peter Kyle claimed it would save “millions” for taxpayers.
“There’s no reason to spend time on tasks that AI can perform more quickly and effectively, let alone waste taxpayer money contracting out such work,” he said.
“With promising outcomes, Humphrey helps lower governance costs and efficiently compiles and analyzes feedback from both experts and the public regarding vital issues.”
“The Scottish government has made a courageous first move, and will soon implement consultations across their own department and others within Whitehall.”
While there’s no set timeline for consultations still pending governmental approval, deployment to government agencies is anticipated by the end of 2025.
I was encouraged by the publications to search. Their portrayals were generally well-received and factual. However, their interpretations of my book and ChatGPT’s involvement did not align with my own understanding. While it’s true that I included conversations with ChatGPT in the book, my aim was critique, not collaboration. In interviews and public forums, I consistently cautioned against using large language models, like ChatGPT, for self-expression. Did these writers misconstrue my work? Or did I inadvertently lead them astray?
In my work, I document how major tech entities exploit human language for their own gain. We’ve made this possible, as we benefit from utilizing their products. It embodies the dynamics of Big Tech’s scheme to amass wealth and influence. We find ourselves both victims and beneficiaries. I’ll convey this complicity through my own online history: my Google searches, Amazon reviews, and yes, my dialogues with ChatGPT.
The Polite Politics of AI
The book opens with an epigraph highlighting the political potency of language, quoted from Audre Lorde and Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o, followed by an initial conversation where I prompt ChatGPT to respond to my writing. This juxtaposition is intentional. I wanted feedback on various chapters to see how these exercises reflect both my language choices and the political implications of ChatGPT.
I maintained a polite tone, stating, “I’m nervous.” OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, claims its products excel when given clear instructions. Research indicates that when we engage kindly, ChatGPT responds more effectively. I framed my requests with courtesy; when it complimented me, I expressed my gratitude; when noting an error, I softened my critique.
ChatGPT, in turn, was designed for polite interaction. Oftentimes, its output is described as “bland” or “generic,” akin to a beige office building. OpenAI’s products are engineered to “sound like a colleague.” According to OpenAI, words are chosen to embody qualities such as “ordinary,” “empathetic,” “kind,” “rationally optimistic,” and “attractive.” These strategies aim to ensure the product appears “professional” and “friendly,” fostering a sense of safety. OpenAI recently discussed rolling back updates that pushed ChatGPT toward erratic responses.
Trust is a pressing challenge for AI companies, especially since their products frequently produce inaccuracies and reflect sexist, racist, and US-centric cultural assumptions. While companies strive to address these issues, they persist; OpenAI found that its latest system generates errors at even higher rates than its predecessor. In the book, I discussed inaccuracies and bias, demonstrating them with examples. For instance, when I prompted Microsoft’s Bing Image Creator for visuals of engineers and space explorers, it rendered a cast of exclusively male figures. Moreover, when my father requested that ChatGPT edit his writing, it converted his accurate Indian English into American English. Such biases are prevalent. Research indicates that these trendsare widespread.
Within my dialogue with ChatGPT, I sought to illustrate how a veneer of product neutrality could dull our critical responses to misguided or biased output. Over time, ChatGPT seemed to encourage me towards more favorable portrayals of Big Tech, describing OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman as “forward-thinking and pragmatic.” I have yet to find research confirming whether ChatGPT has a bias towards Big Tech entities, including OpenAI or Altman. We can only speculate about the reasons for this behavior in our interactions. OpenAI maintains that its products should not attempt to sway user opinions, but when I queried ChatGPT on the matter, it attributed the bias to limitations in training data, even as I believe deeper issues play a part.
When I asked ChatGPT about its rhetorical style, it replied: “My manner of communication is designed to foster trust and confidence in my responses.”
Nevertheless, by the end of our exchange, ChatGPT had suggested a conclusion for my book. Although Altman had never directly informed me, it seemed he would guide discussions towards accountability regarding AI product deficiencies.
I felt my argument had been made. The ChatGPT generated epilogue was inaccurately biased. The conversation concluded amicably, and I felt triumphant.
I Thought I Was Critiquing the Machine; Headlines Framed Me as Collaborating with It
Then, headlines emerged (and occasionally articles or reviews) referring to my use of ChatGPT as a means of self-expression. In interviews and publications, many asked if my work was a collaboration with ChatGPT. Each time, I rejected the premise by citing the Cambridge Dictionary definition of collaboration. Regardless of how human-like ChatGPT’s rhetoric appears, it is not a person.
Of course, OpenAI has its aspirations. Among them, it aims to develop AI that “benefits all of humanity.” Yet, while the organization is governed by non-profit principles, its investors still seek returns on their investments. This environment could incentivize users of ChatGPT to adopt additional products. Such objectives could be easily attained if these products are perceived as trustworthy partners. Last year, Altman predicted that AI would function as “an exceedingly competent colleague who knows everything about my life.” In an April Ted Talk, he indicated that AI could even influence social dynamics positively. “I believe AI will enable us to surpass intelligence and enhance collective decision-making,” he remarked this month during testimony before the US Senate, referencing potential integrations of “agents in their pockets” with government operations.
Upon reading headlines echoing Altman’s sentiments, my initial instinct was to attribute blame to the headline writer’s desire for sensationalism—tactics that algorithms increasingly dictate the content we consume. My second instinct was to hold accountable the companies behind these algorithms, including AI firms whose chatbots are being trained on published content. When I asked ChatGPT about contemporary discussions around “AI Collaborations,” it mentioned me and cited some reviews that had irritated me.
To clarify, I returned to my book to determine if I had couch misrepresented the notion of collaboration. Initially, it appeared that I hadn’t. I identified approximately 30 references to “collaboration” and similar terms. However, 25 of these originated from ChatGPT within interstitial dialogues, often elucidating the relationship between humans and AI products. None of the remaining five pertained to AI “collaboration” unless they referenced another author or were presented cynically—for instance, regarding the expectations of writers “refusing to cooperate with AI.”
Was I an Accomplice to AI Companies?
But was it significant that I seldom used the term? I speculated that those discussing my ChatGPT “collaboration” might have drawn interpretations from my book, even if not explicitly stated. What led them to believe that merely quoting ChatGPT would consistently unveil its absurdities? Why didn’t they consider the possibility that some readers would be persuaded by ChatGPT’s arguments? Perhaps my book inadvertently functioned as collaboration—not because AI products facilitated my expression, but because I had aided the corporations behind them in achieving their goals. My book explores how those in power leverage our language to their advantage, questioning what roles we play as accomplices. Now, it seemed that the very public reception of my book was intertwined in this dynamic. It was a sobering realization, but perhaps I should have anticipated it. There was no reason my work should be insulated from the same exploitation plaguing the world.
Ultimately, my book focused on how we can assert independence from the agendas of powerful entities and actively resist them, serving our own interests. ChatGPT suggested closing with a quote from Altman, but I opted for one from Ursula K. Le Guin: “We live in capitalism, and that power seems inevitable.” I pondered where we are headed. How can we ensure that governments sufficiently restrain the wealth and power of big technology? How can we fund and develop technology that aligns with our needs and desires, devoid of exploitation?
I imagined that my rhetorical struggle against powerful tech began and concluded within the confines of my book. Clearly, that was not the case. If the headlines I encountered truly reflect the end of that struggle, it indicates I was losing. Yet, readers soon reached out to me, stating that my book catalyzed their resistance against Big Tech. Some even cancelled their Amazon Prime memberships. I ceased to seek personal advice from ChatGPT. The fight continues, and collaboration among humans is essential.
Social media buzzed with reactions when startup Slate Auto unveiled its electric pickup truck priced at approximately $25,000 last month. The vehicle’s simplistic design features a silent body and nostalgic hand crank windows.
How wild is it? According to Cox Automotive, average monthly payments for new vehicles surged to $739 in March, up from $537 in January 2019. The average cost of a new car is now $47,400, while electric models are around $59,200. The high interest rate, currently about 9.4% on a 72-month loan, has further strained finances for buyers.
“Prices and interest rates are exceptionally high,” stated Mark Schirmer, director of industry insights at Cox Automotive. “For consumers who haven’t been in the market since 2018, the cost of a vehicle might seem shocking.”
President Trump’s 25% tariffs on imported automobiles and parts have prompted consumers to buy now, fearing further price increases. Cars priced below $30,000 are particularly vulnerable, with nearly 80% facing these tariffs. This includes popular models like the American-made Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. The supply of budget-friendly models is expected to dwindle as automakers may cease the importation of certain vehicles entirely.
Enter Slate, a suburban Detroit startup backed by venture capital and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.
Former Fiat executive Chris Berman, now CEO of Slate, mentioned that their trucks won’t be available until late 2026 but are intentionally designed to alleviate sticker shock.
True to its name, the truck serves as a blank canvas, enabling buyers to customize with over 100 accessories, such as power windows and heated seats, as their budgets allow or needs evolve. While it lacks built-in stereo or touchscreen display, it features a dock for phones and tablets, which saves costs and helps avoid the digital obsolescence often seen in car entertainment systems.
“I believe hardworking Americans are seeking value for their money,” Berman expressed in a recent interview.
This message resonated with 41-year-old Liv Leigh, who secured a slate truck reservation during its public debut at Long Beach Airport in California last April, paying $50 to do so.
She observed Slate employees convert the two-seat pickup into a five-seater SUV in just about an hour. Lee values the compact size of the truck, which is smaller than a Civic, along with its moderate 150-mile range.
“I love the concept of a utilitarian truck, a basic model that can handle dogs, muddy bikes, and plywood easily,” Lee remarked. “We don’t need a massive vehicle for our needs.”
Berman emphasized that efficient design and manufacturing are critical to maintaining the low price of their trucks. The grey plastic composite body panels eliminate the necessity for costly steel body stamping facilities or paint shops.
Just as the Ford Model T was available only in black, the Slate grants buyers a choice of 13 colors of vinyl body wraps for an additional $500. Customers can also opt for larger factory-installed batteries that extend the range to 240 miles.
“This approach keeps costs down while offering customers the freedom of choice,” said Berman. “They can customize their vehicles as per their preferences rather than adhering to manufacturer standards.”
Slate anticipates that its US-based supply chain, including batteries produced by South Korea’s SK On, will qualify for a $7,500 federal tax credit. However, some Republican lawmakers recently introduced a budget bill that removes this incentive and dismantles other Biden-era climate and energy policies.
Success hinges on Slate’s ability to navigate the treacherous landscape of electric vehicle startups, as several young manufacturers like Fisker, Nikola, and Canoo have sought bankruptcy protection.
Regardless of subsidies, Berman remains optimistic about Slate’s business strategy.
The company aims to price the truck around $20,000 before any government incentives, hoping to become a contender against the Nissan Leaf, which is the most affordable electric vehicle at $29,300 but no longer qualifies for tax credits. Chevrolet is set to release a redesigned Bolt SUV for roughly $30,000 by year-end, which will qualify for a tax credit, reducing its effective price to about $22,500.
Erin Keating, executive analyst at Cox Automotive, has praised the slate truck’s originality. However, she noted that the two-seat pickup’s short range and minimalistic interiors might not attract American buyers accustomed to high-tech features and comforts.
“There’s no harm in attempting to resolve the affordability crisis, but I question whether this will become a high-volume seller,” Keating commented. “Ultimately, this is a compact EV that offers very little. It doesn’t improve the array of affordable options with longer ranges.”
The Ford Maverick poses a potential challenge to the Slate, as its compact pickup is two feet longer, seating five passengers and featuring even more amenities. The hybrid version achieves 40 miles per gallon, with over 500 miles of range on a full tank.
Ford sold 131,000 Mavericks last year, indicating substantial demand for small, fuel-efficient trucks. The company has raised the starting price for hybrid versions to $28,150 as of 2024 due to tariffs on trucks assembled in Mexico. Ford confirmed that it would not pass on the entire tariff burden to consumers, offering vehicles at a price equivalent to employee sales until early July.
As with all vehicle types, American pickups have morphed dramatically over the years, with some extravagant models costing as much as luxury European sedans. Electric trucks from Tesla, Rivian, and Ford range from $70,000 to $100,000 or even higher.
Berman is keeping an eye on market opportunities for personas such as entry-level truck enthusiasts, families seeking a second vehicle, empty-nesters, landscapers, contractors, and delivery personnel. The company anticipates selling more trucks to customers who would typically opt for used cars, with an average price point estimated at $26,000.
A significant hurdle for Slate and other firms aiming to sell more affordable vehicles is that many Americans don’t appear to be purchasing such offerings, despite their stated preferences.
Keating highlighted that around 20 models currently available start below $25,000, predominantly small cars or SUVs, including the $18,300 Nissan Versa, the lowest-priced car on the market.
Almost all mid-sized family sedans start below $30,000, including popular models like the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, and Hyundai Sonata. Yet, many Americans favor larger vehicles; SUVs, pickups, and minivans now comprise over 80% of the market.
Trump’s trade policies remain unpredictable. Analysts hope tariffs will add thousands to new car prices, subsequently increasing demand and prices for used vehicles.
In April alone, Americans purchased 1.5 million new cars, 400,000 more than in April 2024. However, analysts have noted that buyers are acting now to avoid being caught in a crunch later. Jonathan Smoke, chief economist at Cox Automotive, mentioned that new car inventories have reached their lowest point in two years, indicating potential price increases as dealerships sell out ahead of impending tariffs. Meanwhile, S&P Global Mobility has reduced its forecasts for new car sales, anticipating a 4% decline this year.
For those seeking refuge amidst financial uncertainty, electric vehicles present a sound investment, according to Keating. New electric vehicles received an average discount of 13.3% in March, translating to savings of nearly $8,000.
Lee recently leased a Chevrolet Equinox for two years, paying $5,500 upfront, resulting in a monthly payment of $230. The electric SUV boasts a 319-mile range. “Many people aren’t aware of the extensive incentives available,” she noted.
Automakers are concerned that President Trump’s tariffs on imported vehicles and auto parts could soon drive up expenses and impact profits.
However, one company in the automotive sector sees tariffs as a potential benefit. Carvana, an online used car retailer known for its unusual “vending machine” towers for vehicles, is optimistic.
The tariffs, which include a 25% tax on automobiles produced in Mexico, Canada, Germany, and various other nations, are likely to drive up prices for new cars and trucks, pushing more consumers towards second-hand options. The administration announced on Monday that lowered tariffs on Chinese imports will not affect those on vehicles and auto parts.
“As car prices increase, Carvana finds itself in a relatively advantageous position as consumers seek more affordable and higher-quality vehicles,” stated Ernie Garcia, the founder and CEO of the company, in a recent interview. “We anticipate that this shift will lead more customers to second-hand cars and savings from online purchases.”
Trump asserts that the purpose of imposing tariffs is to encourage manufacturers to produce more goods and create jobs in the U.S., although he also suggests they will help address issues like illegal immigration and drug trafficking.
Automakers are preparing for the anticipated repercussions.
Recently, General Motors indicated that tariffs could elevate costs by $2.8 billion to $3.5 billion this year. Ford, which produces more vehicles domestically than GM, estimates a net cost of $1.5 billion due to tariffs. Toyota, importing many vehicles from Japan, predicted costs of $1.3 billion just for March and April.
Analysts warn that prices for certain imported vehicles might soar by as much as $10,000, and new vehicle sales could slow significantly this year.
Alan Hague from a consulting firm in Fort Lauderdale noted that Garcia’s perspective aligns with consumer behavior trends as retail dealers brace for changes.
“I believe we will see an increase in second-hand car sales due to tariffs, and more customers will flock to Carvana’s website as it remains their primary focus,” he remarked.
However, potential drawbacks exist. Should tariffs lead to a recession or significant price hikes in vehicles, both new and used car sales could decline. Currently, used cars at auctions average about $1,000 more than just two months prior.
Hague remarked that it may take a while for the full effects to manifest, as prices for most vehicles on dealer lots have not yet risen dramatically. The first set of imported models subjected to tariffs, enacted in early April, is just starting to arrive, with customs duties on engines, transmissions, and other parts coming into effect shortly after.
Regardless of the outcome, Carvana finds itself in a stronger financial position than in previous years.
In the wake of the Covid pandemic, which propounded a surge in online used car sales, Carvana became a favorite among investors, resulting in soaring stock prices. However, as demand began to wane, the company faced considerable losses while holding a considerable inventory of vehicles purchased at higher costs.
Simultaneously, rising interest rates followed Carvana’s acquisition of Adesa, a used car auction company, leaving analysts wary of the company’s survival due to the increased debt and losses. By February 2023, inventory levels had plunged.
Nonetheless, Garcia managed to renegotiate debts, lower costs, and streamline Carvana’s operations. Over several months, the company reduced its workforce, sold off inventory, and successfully turned Adesa into a cost-effective supplier for vehicles. Recently, the facility was established at 11 Adesa locations to repair and refurbish used vehicles.
These efforts have begun to pay off. Last week, Carvana announced record figures for the first quarter of the year. Profits reached $373 million, a significant increase from $49 million the previous year, selling 133,898 used cars—46% more than in the first quarter of 2024. The average gross profit per vehicle stood just below $7,000.
The company achieved this by maintaining a leaner inventory, reducing advertising spend, and employing around 4,000 fewer people than three years ago, effectively recovering much of the lost ground.
“From 2017 to 2021, our focus was on growth,” explained Garcia. “Over the past two years, we’ve unlocked efficiency, and that’s driving significant performance improvements.”
Garcia now aims for Carvana to sell between 500,000 and 3 million vehicles annually within the next five to ten years.
Many Wall Street analysts are regaining confidence in the company’s prospects, but a significant challenge remains. Finding skilled auto mechanics is quite difficult, and Carvana will require hundreds more to achieve its aim of refurbishing used cars for sale.
“Labor is a major bottleneck,” stated analyst Ronald George from City in a recent report.
Garcia expresses confidence in Carvana’s revamped business model and believes it will thrive, irrespective of shifts in U.S. trade policies.
“I think it demonstrates that customers are willing to buy cars online and that our online model delivers real value,” he concluded.
In March, following a significant decline in Tesla’s stock price, Elon Musk informed employees that he was “committed to inventory.”
Robin Denholm, the chair of Tesla’s board, appears to have disregarded this advice. According to an analysis by Securities Filing’s New York Times, she has profited $180 million from selling Tesla shares she obtained through her board role within the last six months.
With this, her total earnings from Tesla stock sales exceed $530 million since she became chair in late 2018.
These stock transactions have raised questions regarding Denholm’s confidence in Tesla’s future. Her recent sales, executed under a pre-established trading plan created last summer, coincided with Musk’s demanding involvement in the Trump administration. Consequently, Tesla’s car sales have experienced a decline as Musk’s political endeavors alienated some customers. The company’s profits for the first quarter of 2025 plummeted to their lowest level in four years.
Denholm has the right to purchase stocks through stock options granted by Tesla from 2014 to 2020, which have dramatically increased in value. For instance, last week, she acquired over 112,000 shares at $24.73 each and sold them the same day for upwards of $270.
“To discard her inventory does not send a message that this is a board chair invested in the company’s future,” stated New York City Director Bradlander, overseeing the city’s five public pension funds, which held more than 3 million Tesla shares valued at around $817 million as of March.
A spokesperson for Denholm asserted that Tesla compensates its executives in a manner “fully aligned with shareholder interests.”
“The appreciation of Tesla’s director’s choices reflects the company’s superiority over its industry peers, yielding distinctive returns for shareholders who own the company,” he added.
Stock options, which have historically constituted the bulk of Tesla’s compensation, are valuable only if the company’s stock price appreciates. Those exercising options to acquire shares may choose to sell or retain their new shares.
Denholm has sold over 1.4 million Tesla shares while retaining 85,000 shares and approximately 49,000 stock options. Comparative Methods, a consulting firm, has scrutinized the compensation strategy. Her most recent stock transactions occurred under a plan initiated in July shortly after Musk endorsed Donald J. Trump for president.
Regulatory frameworks allow executives and insiders to engage in such transactions without disclosing numerous plan specifics, including their motivations or the terms for stock disposal. They also possess considerable latitude to rescind plans.
Denholm, an experienced technology executive from Australia, typically maintains a low profile and avoids public commentary on Tesla or Musk. She joined the Tesla Commission in 2014 and became chair after Musk stepped down in 2018 as part of an SEC settlement.
Criticism from investors, activists, and Delaware judges has arisen regarding her and other board members for not serving as a check on Musk’s influence, with assertions that the Tesla director has failed to keep him focused on the company.
“Musk operates as if there were no board oversight,” wrote Delaware Chancery Court Prime Minister Catalyne St. J. McCormick last year, noting the case was valued at approximately $56 billion when ruling in favor of shareholders contesting Musk’s 2018 compensation package. Judge McCormick characterized Denholm’s oversight of Musk as “Rakkadichal.”
Tesla’s appeal against the decision led to the annulment of Musk’s pay package, with Denholm actively disputing Judge McCormick’s allegations.
In the trial concerning Musk’s compensation, Denholm characterized her earnings from the Tesla board as “life-changing.” Compensation at Tesla was also scrutinized in another lawsuit in which Denholm and fellow board members reached a settlement in 2023.
Musk, who has been a part-time CEO of Tesla for years, has assumed even more responsibilities over time, regularly engaging with Washington and orchestrating President Trump’s strategies to reduce governmental spending and oppose federal employees.
Recently, Musk stated he would reduce his Washington presence by one or two days each week. Nevertheless, his focus will remain divided as he manages several other enterprises, including SpaceX and X, the social media platform he owns.
The first transaction based on Denholm’s recent trading plan occurred in November, shortly after the presidential election, as Tesla’s stock began to rise. In December, the stock reached a new high, and she continued to sell until early May, even as prices declined amid consumer backlash against Musk’s political activities.
Following recent losses, the stock has decreased by approximately 34% from its peak.
Musk acknowledged Tesla’s challenges during a March meeting with employees. “If you read the news, it feels like you understand.”
He reiterated his advice to employees not to sell their shares, asserting that Tesla will evolve into the world’s most valuable company through the realization of self-driving taxis and advanced robotic technologies. “The future is exceptionally promising,” he stated.
Denholm’s sales have significantly outpaced those of other Tesla board members.
In 2023, she and other current and former board members agreed to a settlement for shareholder lawsuits concerning their compensation, collectively agreeing to return $735 million. They denied any wrongdoing. Additionally, on May 1, a stock option valued at over $130 million was canceled to fulfill Denholm’s obligations, according to securities filings.
Following the lawsuit in June 2021, the board resolved to relinquish the new stock grants.
During the same period, Denholm also made more from selling company shares than other corporate committee leaders. The Times assessed stock sales made by chairs of the most valuable companies in the U.S., distinct from the executives of those companies, like Denholm.
The next non-executive chair who benefited significantly from selling shares in his oversight capacity is Stephen Hemsley of UnitedHealth Group. Since November 2018, Hemsley has profited over $100 million from UnitedHealth shares, all accrued during his tenure as CEO of the healthcare firm.
UnitedHealth reviewed the findings but refrained from commenting. On Tuesday, the company announced its decision to appoint Hemsley as its new Chief Executive while also retaining the chair position.
Sales carried out by executives and directors often predict subpar performance from the companies they lead, according to various academic studies.
Leaders like Denholm possess access to confidential information and a profound understanding of how broader economic factors can impact corporate performance. Nejat Seyhun, a finance professor at the University of Michigan, observes that this can render their transactions particularly lucrative.
Insiders “establish plans when they hold such information,” remarked Professor Seyhun. “If circumstances shift, they can easily rescind those plans.”
Exterior: A device designed to estimate your life expectancy.
So, is it going to tell me when I’ll die? No, thank you. Hold on, let me explain.
Not a problem, but that still sounds pretty terrifying. Just give me a moment. It operates similarly to what your doctor does.
Which is what? We will analyze your photos to evaluate your health.
Oh, that doesn’t sound too bad. However, this device can assess you even more accurately. It can also help predict your response to treatments.
Nope, I’m out again. Let me elaborate. Faceage is an AI innovation developed by scientists at Mass General Brigham in Boston. By examining a picture of your face, it can assess your biological age compared to your chronological age.
What does that imply? It means everyone ages differently. For instance, at 50, Paul Rudd had a biological age of 43, while fellow actor Wilford Brimley was biologically 69 at the same age.
Why is this significant? Individuals with older biological ages are less likely to withstand intensive treatments like radiation therapy.
Explain it to me as if I’m clueless. Sure thing. The older your face looks, the worse it is for your health.
Great, just what I needed to hear about my premature grey hairs. Actually, not exactly. Features like gray hair or hair loss can be misleading. This device evaluates factors like skin folding near the mouth and temple hollows for a more accurate health profile.
Wonderful, now I have to obsessively analyze my temple’s condition. No, this is beneficial. With proper usage, such diagnostic tools can enhance countless lives. Although the initial study focused on cancer patients, researchers intend to broaden the tests to others.
I just had plastic surgery. Will Faceage still work for me? As of now, it’s unclear. The developers still need to investigate this.
What about for people of color? Ah, yes. This model was predominantly trained on white faces, so its effectiveness on diverse skin tones is still uncertain.
This sounds a bit concerning. It’s simply a cautionary issue. Let’s consider how quickly AI evolves. Just last year, ChatGPT was lacking but has now transformed industries. We can expect Faceage to improve rapidly, too.
That’s encouraging. Indeed. Before long, it could assess your face and provide a calm, unbiased judgment on your health and longevity.
Is this for real? No, definitely not. At least, not yet.
Say: “Faceage represents a new frontier in medical diagnostics.”
Don’t say: “They claim we’ll perish during the 2028 robot uprising.”
hGreetings from Ello and TechScape! Radio stations and television presenters can enhance their writing by considering their delivery methods. I’m your host, Blake Montgomery. In today’s Tech News: Discussions arise regarding labor automation within the US healthcare sector, as conflicts escalate with the use of drones in India and Pakistan, both of which are armed with nuclear weapons. But first, let’s explore the evolving battle over AI and copyright in the UK and the US.
“Daring and Unprecedented Power Shift”
The UK is embroiled in intense discussions about compensating artists for using their copyrighted works in developing generative AI technologies. The Senate convened on Monday to determine whether tech companies are utilizing copyrighted materials without permission.
Insights from my colleagues Dan Millmo and Rafael Boyd:
The UK government faces challenges in the House of Representatives over its attempt to let AI firms use copyrighted works without consent.
Despite government objections, an amendment to the data bill urging AI companies to disclose which copyrighted content is being utilized received support from peers.
While this proposal is under consultation in the current year’s report, critics are leveraging the data bill to voice their disapproval.
The government’s primary proposal would permit AI companies to use copyrighted works without obtaining permissions, a stance critics denounce as impractical unless copyright holders explicitly indicate their non-usage.
Read the complete article on Monday’s vote here.
Conversely, in the US, discussions have taken a more chaotic turn. Over the weekend, Donald Trump dismissed the US Copyright Director. CBS News reported this incident. Shira Perlmutter was let go after publishing a report questioning the growing demands for AI firms to bypass existing copyright laws.
New York Democratic leader Joe Morell specifically pointed to Trump’s ally, Elon Musk, as a driving force behind this dismissal. She declined to rubber stamp Musk’s initiatives to exploit copyrighted works for training AI models.
The abrupt termination of Trump’s copyright chief brings to mind the tale of the Gordian knot. Legend has it that Alexander the Great encountered a complex knot tying a cart to a pole. Numerous attempts to untie it failed, but Alexander, with a simple sword stroke, solved the dilemma. The narrative illustrates how innovative thinking can lead to triumph. Alexander dismantled the dilemma, leaving the original problem unresolved. Perhaps the true lesson lies beyond just securing the cart, but that’s a topic for another time.
While Trump may have circumvented the challenging legal issues presented by the Copyright Office, the vacuum at the top means that influential players will likely exploit copyright regulations to their advantage. This may align with the president’s intentions. Well-capitalized AI firms appear poised to dominate copyright litigation, while they simultaneously advocate for fair compensation for artists’ creativity. Their alliance with Trump signals a shift towards a more favorable regulatory climate, as illustrated by the recent dismissal of the copyright chief. Numerous lawsuits bear witness to AI companies quietly leveraging copyrighted materials without proper permissions, prompting actions from both plaintiffs and defendants.
Trump Offers Blockchain Access
Donald Trump at the White House in Washington, DC on Monday. Photo: Nathan Howard/Reuters
My colleague, Nick Robbins, covers the contest where Trump promises to engage directly with his cryptocurrency investors.
On Monday, the top 220 investors in Donald Trump-backed cryptocurrency were granted exclusive dinner invitations with the president as a reward for their financial contributions. This culminated months of promotions, raising concerns that he is leveraging his political power to benefit his family’s business while exposing himself to foreign interests.
The cryptocurrency, dubbed $Trump, launched in mid-January and has garnered a market cap exceeding $2 billion following significant investor interest. Most of the tokens are held by companies associated with Trump’s family. As reported by Reuters.
“Congratulations! If you’re among the top 220, expect communication within the next 24 hours. Please check your inbox (including spam folders) for your invitation to dine with President Trump,” his website stated on Monday. “We look forward to seeing you at the gala dinner in Washington, DC on May 22nd.”
Democrats, ethics watchdogs, and the SEC have expressed concerns regarding Trump’s crypto ventures, highlighting corruption allegations. The dinner contest raises ethical issues, equating the opportunity for direct access to the president with a bidding war.
Drones Surge along the India-Pakistan Border
Residents inspect damaged homes in Pakistan-controlled Neelam valley in Kashmir on Monday. Photo: Muzammil Ahmed/AFP/Getty Images
Though India and Pakistan have achieved a fragile ceasefire, the recent four-day conflict between these rivals exemplifies an escalating trend.
New York Times reports that Pakistan has claimed India is deploying Turkish-made drones for assaults. India, on the other hand, alleged Pakistan mobilized 300-400 drones for attacks on 36 sites on the night of May 8th, stating they shot down approximately 70 drones launched from India.
The term “drone” encompasses two distinct concepts: small quadcopters operated remotely and larger semi-autonomous vehicles managed from military command centers. Unfortunately, this English vernacular misses the mark. For countries like India, Pakistan, and Ukraine, smaller unmanned aircraft have become significant weaponry.
The Ukraine-Russia conflict underscores the rapid expansion of drone usage. The explosive quadcopter, featuring first-person viewing, wreaked havoc during landmark assaults, including attacks on the Kremlin in May 2023.
Can Automation Solve the US Healthcare Worker Shortage?
Nurses operating a new automated dose assembly machine in Columbus, Ohio. Photo: Doral Chenoweth/The Columbus Dispatch by USA Today Network
One of the major concerns of our era is the potential for machines to largely replace human labor. Recently, the Guardian covered Zing, a robot designed to distribute methadone, a medication for opioid addiction that has surged in the US over the years. This story raises critical questions: Where should we draw the line between automation that genuinely assists workers and a profit-driven preference for robotic over human labor?
Click here for all stories on robotic medication delivery.
Walgreens has announced an expansion of its Microfilling Center services, incorporating robots for prescription dispensing and a hub dedicated to packaging chronic illness medications. As reported by CNBC, these automated centers process around 16 million prescriptions monthly, accounting for 40% of Walgreens’ prescriptions. The company aims to increase the number of locations utilizing these centers to 5,000 by year-end, up from 4,800 in February. Walgreens asserts that the shift to automation initiated in 2021 has already saved them $500 million over four years.
Pharmacy technicians are grappling with issues similar to those faced by nurses distributing methadone (including low wages, high pressure, and turnover), yet on a much larger scale. Walgreens operates approximately 12,500 stores across the US, Europe, and Latin America, with a valuation near $9.7 billion and a workforce of 312,000.
In 2023, Walgreens pharmacy staff staged strikes nationwide to protest working conditions. The central issues included chronic staffing shortages and burnout among those who remained. They branded the protest “Pharmaheadon.”
Although Walgreens may reduce pharmacy job openings due to automation and outsourcing functions to microfilling centers, it’s likely that many of these positions were not filled to begin with, creating hazardous working environments. Automation could help address the workforce shortages, mirroring potential developments in methadone clinics nationwide.
Walgreens Corporate claims that automation is easing worker challenges, allowing personnel more opportunities for personal interaction with patients. Reportedly, there’s been a 40% rise in vaccine distributions facilitated by automated prescription systems.
Learn more about labor automation in another sector here.
A little-known treaty that impacts millions of Americans and Canadians is currently entangled in the tariff dispute between the US and Canada.
This 60-year-old agreement regulates the waters flowing through the Columbia River, which extends from British Columbia to Montana, Idaho, Washington, and Oregon, and serves as the largest source of hydropower in the United States. However, parts of the treaty were set to expire during the presidential election in the US.
Negotiators were merely weeks away from finalizing the details of the treaty’s renewal when President Joseph R. Biden Jr. concluded his term. Subsequently, a decade’s worth of discussions faltered due to President Trump’s antagonism towards Canada, as he labeled Canada the “51st province,” imposed tariffs on Canadian exports, and referred to the water supply as a “major faucet.”
During a heated February call with then-Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Trump brought the treaty into the conversation, suggesting Canada had exploited the United States. The implications were evident—it could become a leverage point in broader discussions aimed at redefining relations between the two nations.
Last week, at a White House meeting, Prime Minister Mark Carney and Trump avoided confrontation. However, the Trump administration perceives negotiations as being precariously balanced, even over treaties that are mutually beneficial. The unpredictability of Trump’s trade policies has cast a shadow over the future of the Pacific Northwest, heightening concerns about issues ranging from electricity supply to flood management.
Fueled by the internet and AI, data centers are leveraging the Columbia River’s hydroelectric power. A local dam supports the Twilight Soccer Game at Riverfront Parks, while irrigation from the reservoir nurtures the sprawling acres of Pink Women and Gala Apple gardens. Coordinated dam operations are crucial in preventing flooding, particularly in areas like Portland, Oregon.
Trump’s comments have resonated negatively with Canadians, who have long feared that the US seeks to exploit its natural resources, especially water. “They want our land, resources, and water,” Carney repeatedly emphasized during his term.
“Canadians experience a sense of betrayal,” Jay Inslee, former governor of Washington, remarked in an interview. The treaty interweaves a complex tapestry of cultural and economic interests. “Negotiating this is not straightforward,” Inslee added.
A spokesperson from British Columbia reported that there has been “no progress whatsoever” since the US State Department suspended negotiations in the broader context of reviewing international commitments. State Energy Minister Adrian Dix told nearly 600 attendees at a virtual town hall in March, “It sounds like a strange representation of the current situation.”
Dix noted that locals approached him in Save-on-Food markets, questioning whether Canada should exit the treaty altogether. “For residents in the Columbia Basin, this is intrinsic,” he stated. “It’s part of their lives, history, and identity.”
If the agreement collapses, the US anticipates it will be “more challenging to manage and predict” hydroelectric output to mitigate flooding in the Pacific Northwest, according to a nonpartisan Congressional report. It is projected that the region’s electricity demand may double within the next two decades, as anticipated by the Interstate Electricity Council.
The State Department has opted not to comment.
The origins of the treaty trace back to the events of 1948, following the Great Spring rains when the 15-foot wall of Vanport, Oregon—home to thousands of shipyard workers during World War II—collapsed. The calamity left 18,000 homeless and catalyzed negotiations with Canada to improve management of the Columbia River.
On one of President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s inauguration days, he ratified the Columbia River Treaty. This agreement exchanged commitments: Canada consented to construct multiple dams to manage flood control for the US, while the US agreed to provide Canada half of the extra electricity generated from the jointly managed river flows.
The original treaty came into effect in the autumn of 1964, with some provisions expiring 60 years later.
Discussions regarding the renewal of the treaty before it lapses in 2024 began during Trump’s first term. Biden temporarily halted them before resuming. In March 2023, the complete congressional delegation from the Pacific Northwest urged the President to expedite the negotiation process. Following a slow start, the US and Canada unveiled a preliminary outline of the agreement last summer.
The electricity generated under the initial treaty proved to be significantly more valuable than originally anticipated, bringing in around $300 million annually to Canada. This surplus prompted Canada to sell extensive amounts of power to the US, causing frustration among US utilities.
The updated agreement aims to reduce Canada’s share by about half over time, allowing the US to retain more electricity amid growing energy demands.
The Columbia River’s cheap and clean hydroelectric power has attracted high-tech companies intent on establishing data centers over the last two decades.
“The nation must recognize the significance of the Pacific Northwest in its burgeoning energy landscape,” stated David Kennedy, a scholar of local history at Stanford.
In the renewed treaty, Canada has decreased the obligation to maintain water storage for flood management, allowing for better prioritization of local communities and ecosystems around the reservoir. The original agreement led to drastic water level fluctuations that exposed extensive land when snowmelt resulted in lower levels.
“Each year, this exposed ground causes severe dust issues,” recounted a resident near Valemount, British Columbia, during the town hall.
The new plan aims to stabilize reservoir levels, enabling Canada to rehabilitate coastal ecosystems and enhance recreational opportunities.
Indigenous tribes were consulted during negotiations, but the initial treaty did not address the destruction of fishing grounds and towns due to dam constructions.
Jay Johnson, a negotiator for the Syilx Okanagan Nation, mentioned during the virtual town hall that tribes on both sides of the border have united to restore salmon migration. The updated framework includes provisions for excess water during dry periods, vital for salmon survival, especially considering climate change.
In the fall, when certain provisions of the original treaty lapse, the state established a three-year interim agreement, though additional parliamentary funding is still required. Both parties must provide ten years’ notice should they choose to withdraw from the treaty.
“This arrangement benefits individuals on both sides of the border; complications arise without a treaty,” noted Jonathan Wilkinson, Canadian Minister of Energy and Natural Resources.
The next steps remain uncertain. While some individuals involved in the negotiations remain in their positions, Trump has yet to appoint a deputy secretary for Western Hemisphere affairs. The situation is further complicated as Trump seeks to trim staff at key federal agencies involved in treaty discussions, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the Federal Power Administration.
With negotiations in limbo, stakeholders involved in the discussions remain hopeful for a resolution on the renewed treaty.
Barbara Kossense, a law professor at the University of Idaho, emphasized that while the Trump administration may not prioritize salmon habitats or Indigenous involvement, Canada does. Water can flow downstream, but salmon swim upstream, and the US could benefit from adhering to environmental provisions, Kossense asserted.
Additionally, supporters highlight years of bipartisan backing from Senator Maria Cantwell of Washington, a leading Democrat on the Senate Commerce Committee, and Jim Lisch of Idaho, Republican chair of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs.
“There will be unanimous agreement on this, irrespective of party lines,” declared Scott Sims, chief executive of the Public Power Council, which represents consumer-owned utilities in the region.
The stakes are tangible. In 1996, following heavy snowfall, a storm known as the Pineapple Express unleashed heavy rainfall in the Portland area, causing significant flooding. The Army Corps of Engineers worked diligently for several days, operating over 60 dams within the Columbia River System in conjunction with Canadian partners to mitigate flooding issues.
A smaller river in Columbia experienced flooding that resulted in eight casualties. Downtown Portland narrowly avoided disaster thanks to makeshift embankments created from plywood and sandbags.
Ivan Penn Contributed report from Houston Matina Stevis-Gridneff From Toronto.
The government is facing another challenge in the House of Representatives regarding proposals that would permit artificial intelligence firms to utilize copyrighted materials without authorization.
An amendment to the data bill, which required AI companies to specify which copyrighted content is used in their models, received support from peers despite government resistance.
This marks the second instance in Congress where a Senator has requested that a tech firm clarify whether it has used copyrighted material.
The vote took place shortly after a coalition of artists and organizations, including Paul McCartney, Janet Winterson, Dua Lipa, and the Royal Shakespeare Company, urged the Prime Minister to “not sacrifice our work for the benefit of a few powerful foreign tech companies.”
The amendment, represented by Crossbench Peer Baroness Kidron, garnered 125 votes, achieving a total of 272 votes.
The bill is now poised to return to the House of Representatives. Should the government eliminate Kidron’s amendments, it will create yet another point of contention for the Lords next week.
Baroness Kidron stated: “We aim to refute the idea that those opposing government initiatives are against technology. Creators acknowledge the creative and economic benefits of AI, but we dispute the notion that AI should be developed for free using works that were appropriated.”
“My Lords, this poses a substantial threat to the British economy, impacting sectors worth £120 billion. The UK thrives in industries central to our industrial strategy and significant cultural contributions.”
The government’s copyright proposal is currently under reviews in this year’s report, but opponents are using the data bill as a platform to voice their objections.
The primary government proposal would allow AI companies to incorporate copyrighted works into model development without prior permission. Critics argue that this is neither practical nor feasible, unless copyright holders indicate they prefer not to use their works in the process.
Nevertheless, the government contends that the existing framework hinders both the creative and technical sectors and necessitates legislative resolutions. They have already made one concession by agreeing to an economic impact assessment of their proposals.
Peter Kyle, a close aide to the technical secretary, mentioned this month that the “opt-out” scenario is no longer his favored path, and various alternatives are being evaluated.
A spokesperson from the Department of Science, Innovation, and Technology stated that the government would not rush into copyright decisions or introduce relevant legislation hastily.
Sources familiar with the matter revealed that the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) has approached a tunneling firm established by Elon Musk.
FRA officials engaged with employees from the Boring Company to discuss cost assessments and progress related to the Frederick Douglass Tunnel Program, a new tunnel intended to enhance the heavily trafficked Amtrak route linking Baltimore and Virginia. Amtrak’s initial development cost was projected at $6 billion, but estimates have now surged to $8.5 billion.
During discussions, a Department of Transportation official who oversees the FRA met with Boring Company staff last month, learning that the firm might pinpoint ways to construct tunnels more affordably and efficiently, according to two insiders.
Nathaniel Sizemore, a spokesperson for the Department of Transportation, confirmed the involvement of the Boring Company among various entities under consideration for a new engineering contract, but he withheld the names of other firms.
These discussions have sparked concerns regarding Musk’s potential conflict of interest as he manages his business interests while simultaneously advising President Trump. Musk oversees at least six companies, including the electric car manufacturer Tesla and the aerospace company SpaceX, while also aiming to boost the efficiency of government operations, which has resulted in reduced employment and resources within federal agencies regulating his ventures.
In various instances, conflicts of interest have surfaced. Trump showcased a Tesla on the White House lawn in March, even as federal agencies push for broader adoption of SpaceX’s Starlink Satellite Internet Service.
Last month, Musk mentioned reducing his time in Washington amid criticisms that he was sidelining his responsibilities at Tesla.
The projected tunnel cost has skyrocketed by $2.5 billion, and Amtrak has yet to devise strategies for cost containment, the Department of Transportation indicated in a statement.
“The department recognizes the significance of engaging with multiple stakeholders in the infrastructure engineering domain to realign the project,” Sizemore stated.
Amtrak has not provided immediate comments. Neither the Boring Company nor Musk responded to inquiries for statements.
The Frederick Douglass Tunnel is intended to replace the 152-year-old Baltimore and Potomac Tunnels, a 1.4-mile stretch along Amtrak’s northeastern corridor, described as “the largest infrastructure initiative” supported by Amtrak. Report In the past year, Amtrak’s Office of the General Inspectors also expressed concerns that costs had ballooned and deadlines were not met, with the tunnel originally scheduled for completion by 2035.
Amtrak awarded last year the construction contract to a joint venture between two firms, Kiewit and JF Shea. The company did not immediately provide comments.
Formerly, it faced ownership scrutiny from Republican figures, including Senator Ted Cruz from Texas and current Vice President JD Vance. Criticism arose for awarding federal funding to projects favoring “Northeastern states over others.”
Musk has previously criticized Amtrak and suggested prioritizing privatization of federally-owned railways.
“If you’re from another country, do not rely on our national railway,” Musk remarked about Amtrak during a March discussion with bankers. “It leaves a negative impression of America.”
Musk and his company have encountered challenges with the Department of Transportation. Following a deadly incident involving an Army helicopter and a commercial jet in January, Transportation Secretary Shawn Duffy noted that SpaceX staff would forward safety proposals to the Federal Aviation Administration’s Air Traffic Control Command Center in Virginia within the following month.
Musk is advocating for the FAA to terminate its substantial air traffic control agreement with Verizon in favor of the Starlink system.
Throughout the years, Musk has championed various transportation innovations, from Tesla electric vehicles to SpaceX rockets, hyperloops, and vacuum tubes designed for high-speed transit of people and goods. The Boring Company, which has raised over $900 million in venture capital, has yet to realize most of its proposed plans in the U.S.
In a 2017 tweet, Musk claimed he would transport passengers from New York to the capital in 30 minutes, stating he had secured “oral government approval” to construct an underground hyperloop connecting New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington.
Two years later, the Boring Company proposed a plan to the Department of Transportation to create a 35-mile underground vehicle loop between Baltimore and Washington, promising completion within two years. However, by 2021, the project was removed from the company’s site and appears inactive now.
Steve Davis, the leader of the Boring Company, has collaborated with Musk and the Trump administration on initiatives aimed at enhancing government efficiency. Davis, a trusted associate of Musk’s, was appointed to helm the tunneling firm in 2018 to execute Musk’s vision for cost-effective governance.
Musk has expressed dissatisfaction with the Boring Company’s performance, criticizing Davis for the lack of project completions. In a recent Fox News interview, Davis characterized his attempts as efforts to avert national bankruptcy, emphasizing a commitment to assist Musk.
Davis did not respond to a request for commentary.
The regulations aimed to ensure that the largest data centers in the world were constructed by the United States and its allies, rather than by nations in the Middle East or elsewhere. Officials in the Biden administration expressed concerns about the authoritarian inclinations of the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, as well as their connections with China. They contended that these rules might restrict access to AI chips and data centers in other countries, subsequently bolstering Beijing’s strategic and military capabilities.
Set to take effect on May 15, the regulations permitted unlimited sales of AI chips to 18 allied nations, including the UK, Germany, and Japan, while prohibiting sales to China, Iran, and other adversaries. Nations such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, India, Israel, and Poland would face limitations on their chip purchases, leading to widespread dissatisfaction.
Jim Secre, the former vice-chief of staff at the Commerce Department, remarked that the regulations are designed to safeguard national security and influence the future of critical technologies. In the absence of these regulations, the combination of inexpensive energy and capital abroad could result in more data centers being established outside the US than within its borders.
“Controlling AI is the geopolitical challenge of our time,” he stated.
Companies like Nvidia and Oracle have raised objections to the regulations, arguing that they hinder the leadership of US technology. Officials from the Trump administration appeared to share this sentiment. On Wednesday, the current administration announced plans to introduce new regulations to replace the existing framework, though no timeline for these changes was specified.
“The Biden AI regulations are excessively complicated and bureaucratic, potentially stifling American innovation,” stated Ben Kass, a spokesperson for the Department of Commerce, which oversees technology policy. “We are focused on advancing US leadership and replacing it with a more straightforward and transparent framework that maximizes the potential of American AI innovation.”
Last week was a challenging period for video game journalism. Two key figures from the veteran site Giant Bomb, Jeff Grubb and Mike Minotti, announced their exit after the recent removal of a particular podcast episode. The 888th installment of the Giant Bombcast reportedly included the section on new brand guidelines, which has since been withdrawn from public access. Just days later, it was revealed that the prominent US site Polygon is set to be sold to Valnet, the parent company of Screen Rant and Game Rant. Consequently, job losses are expected. This follows the 2024 sale of Reedpop, which included four major UK gaming sites: Eurogamer, GamesIndustry.biz, Rock Paper Shotgun, and VG247. Redundancies have been rampant.
It’s disheartening to witness such long-standing platforms, known for their substantial audiences and solid reputations, being handled like mere commodities. Regarding the sale of Polygon, Vox CEO Jim Bankoff stated: “This transaction lets us focus our efforts and investments on other key growth areas in our portfolio.” Honestly, it feels disconcerting to see a decade of progressive gaming discourse turned into off-the-shelf assets. Valnet claimed: “Polygon is set to achieve new editorial standards through dedicated investment and innovation.” However, one must wonder how this will transpire with a significantly downsized team.
Undoubtedly, corporate press releases and the familiar robotic jargon from industry pundits have not quelled the anger and skepticism surrounding these exits. Writing for Aftermath, journalist Nathan Grayson remarked: “While Polygon’s traffic may have been less than stellar, Giant Bomb had a dedicated listener base thanks to its unique blend of personalities. One has to question whether any of the CEOs involved in these transactions have ever listened to a podcast that isn’t focused on maximizing shareholder value.
Jim Bankoff, CEO of VOX Media, captured at the 2022 Code Conference. Photo: Jerod Harris/Getty Images from Vox Media
Video game journalism has long been a precarious balancing act amid various commercial pressures. In the early days of gaming magazines, advertising revenue often came from the very companies whose products were scrutinized by the press. Throughout my tenure as a magazine editor, I witnessed advertisers withdraw their support following unfavorable critiques of their products. Yielding to such pressures jeopardizes the trust of our readership, which is our most valuable asset. While publishers may have significant influence, losing audience trust could lead to their downfall.
As these magazines transitioned to websites, advertising remained a crucial revenue source. Today, the landscape is more complex; with influencers on platforms like Twitch and YouTube emerging, the industry appears less reliant on dedicated gaming journalism sites. It seems that companies looking to acquire gaming sites are focused more on brand names than on the creative, experienced teams behind them. Recent investigations revealed that Valnet was accused of turning acquired properties into mere content mills focused on “SEO Bait.” Valnet hasSince been involved in legal disputes regarding this issue.
As gaming evolves into a live service sector with billions of paying customers, journalism’s compensation rates have stagnated.
The current tech landscape seems to reward the mechanization of creativity. Unquantifiable and costly, human insight is often perceived as an obstacle to streamlined growth and market penetration. While AI gains traction, one might wonder if automating content generation for video game walkthroughs, produced in milliseconds, could suffice.
The catch, however, is that writing game walkthroughs is labor-intensive and requires skillful gameplay, adept interpretation, and the capacity to foresee player needs. Reviews are inherently subjective, influenced by personal experiences. Podcasts offer a friendly chat-like atmosphere. Top-tier gaming journalism elucidates the industry while uncovering issues that might otherwise be obscured. Those who excel in this arena have years of gameplay, writing, and inquiry experience; they understand gamers’ thoughts.
This dilemma resonates across all artistic mediums, from film to music. Tech moguls anticipate that their brand acquisitions will engage audiences, expecting passive consumers to absorb whatever is presented. However, it’s not mindless content we seek, but innovative ideas and craft. Fortunately, independent sites are emerging at an impressive rate, such as the UK-based VGC and the US-based Aftermath, both of which are building substantial followings. While audiences may be deceived temporarily, it’s increasingly apparent that poorly staffed digital content machines can only churn out secondhand ideas, hoping that the hollow echoes of lost credibility will withstand the test of time.
What to Play
Fear With Highrook is both terrifying and fascinating. Photo: Nullpointer Game
Each month, I review twelve indie video games that experiment with collectible card battle mechanics reminiscent of Magic The Gathering and Yu-Gi-Oh. One standout is Fear With Highrook, where a group of explorers delves into a haunted mansion to uncover the fate of a missing nobleman’s family. The game features a challenging world akin to a complex board game, combining item discovery with skill card upgrades for character enhancement. Drawing inspiration from Poe and Lovecraft, it offers a beautifully crafted experience filled with ideas and arcane treasures for aficionados of both space and Gothic horror.
Available on: PC Estimated playtime: Over 10 hours
What to Read
Lucia Caminos, co-protagonist of Grand Theft Auto VI. Photo: Rockstar Game
Fraud has plagued video gaming since its inception, impacting countless players in online multiplayer shooters. Explore this feature detailing Riot Games’ battle against cheaters in League of Legends and beyond, highlighting the ongoing struggle between developers and hackers.
Many exceptional video games have been on the brink of disaster due to poor design choices during development. An extensive interview with former Sony President Yoshida reveals how he salvaged Gran Turismo by advocating for playable non-racing characters.
Although I adore video games, many modern tech products cultivate their own myths and folklore. This BBC feature explores fascinating cases, like Ben owned – the story behind the haunted N64 cartridge that captivated gaming forums in 2010.
After finishing your read, check out Rockstar’s latest teaser for the upcoming Grand Theft Auto VI. A recent trailer has emerged alongside new screenshots and details about key characters Jason and Lucia, hinting at the game’s delays until May 2026.
Limited options exist… the gaming scene is grappling with breakthroughs in VR like The Meta Quest. Photo: Meta Connect/AFP/Getty Images
This week’s question comes from Guy Bailey who reached out to me via Blue Sky:
“I’m a fan of sim racing in VR, while my son loves Vrchat and the friendships formed within various worlds. Half-Life Alyx is a phenomenal experience, and most individuals who try VR rave about it. Is this the peak of VR?”
This query has lingered in the VR community since the Oculus Quest launched in 2019, which was meant to rejuvenate modern VR. While over 20 million Quest headsets and 5 million PlayStation VR sets have been sold, we are not collectively spending substantial time in virtual environments.
Several factors contribute to this trend. Motion sickness is one culprit—many individuals (particularly women, as outlined in studies) experience nausea after even brief usage. Regardless of how engaging the software, discomfort can prevent enjoyment. There are also neurological and physiological discrepancies when we navigate visual settings that conflict with our bodily sensations. We’ve all seen humorous videos featuring gamers colliding with walls while lost in VR.
Moreover, VR can make us feel exposed and awkward, particularly when wearing a bulky headset at home. Such elements likely explain why companies like Apple are favoring augmented reality over intensive virtual experiences. Thus far, their approach hasn’t succeeded in establishing a consumer-centric platform.
In most instances, the content available isn’t enticing enough for general audiences. It’s a cliché, but the fact remains: there’s no definitive “killer app.” I’ve got a PlayStation VR headset that’s gathering dust, while my sons only occasionally engage with the Meta Quest 3. Their favorite experiences are often limited to brief sessions.
For many of us, VR needs to evolve to engage our senses—touch, taste, and smell.
If you have a topic you’d like to discuss or a question for the newsletter, please reach out to me at pushingbuttons@theguardian.com
I recently discovered a restaurant located in my second-floor room in San Francisco, where a venture capital firm hosted a dinner. The after-dinner speaker was a tech veteran who sold his AI company for hundreds of millions and is now pivoting to investment. His straightforward message to the founders of a newly established startup was clear: the potential earnings from AI far exceed the limited market size of previous tech waves. You can draw on a global workforce, which could mean profits for everyone involved.
The idea of completely replacing human labor with AI sounds like science fiction. However, it is the explicit goal of a growing number of high-tech elites—individuals devoid of significant drives or resources, yet with ample financial backing and determination. When they declare their intention to automate all labor, we should take their words seriously.
This perspective is typically confined to closed circles for obvious reasons; one rarely invokes hostility faster than when suggesting that jobs may vanish. Nonetheless, a company named Machicalize challenged this trend last month by openly articulating their vision: “Fully automated economy.” They have successfully garnered funding from some of Silicon Valley’s most prominent figures, including Google’s chief scientist Jeff Dean and podcast host Workspatel.
Is it truly feasible to automate every job? Elon Musk seems to think so. He suggested that the rise of AI and robotics could lead to a scenario where “None of us have a job.” Bill Gates has also reflected on the future of human work, stating that some roles may not be necessary: “It’s not necessary for ‘most things’.” Predictions for sweeping labor changes come from notable figures such as AI pioneer Geoffrey Hinton and billionaire investor Vinod Khosla. Their insights are not to be dismissed lightly.
Certain professions appear to be notably resistant to automation. Taylor Swift, Harry Kane, or the next Archbishop of Canterbury are unlikely to be replaced. Famous artists, athletes, politicians, and clergy are among the occupations least susceptible to AI intrusion; unfortunately, they are not careers accessible to everyone.
Currently, technology cannot substitute for all human labor. AI is prone to errors and lacks the coordination, dexterity, and adaptability of humans. However, cutting-edge technology can already perform many tasks, and the expectation is that it will continue to accelerate in capability.
GPT-4, one of OpenAI’s large language models, achieved a Top 10% score on the bar exam in 2023. More recent models have proven adept at coding even beyond the skills of their own chief scientists. The demand for freelance writing sharply declined when ChatGPT was released; the same trend occurred in graphic design following the launch of AI image generators. Driverless cars are already a common sight in San Francisco. As Sam Altman stated emphatically, “The job is It will definitely disappear—full stop.”
While AI captures most headlines, advancements in robotics are also progressing rapidly. While AI may threaten white-collar jobs, robots are increasingly targeting blue-collar work. A humanoid robot is currently undergoing tests at BMW factories. Another model has managed to master over 100 tasks typically performed by human store clerks. Companies are preparing to commence home tests with robots as soon as this year. The Silicon Valley vision for the job market is clear: AI handles thinking, while robots take care of the physical tasks. In this scenario, what role remains for humans?
Until recently, AI researchers anticipated that achieving artificial general intelligence (AGI)—the ability for AI to perform virtually all cognitive tasks at human levels—was an aspiration far off in the future. However, that perception has shifted. Demis Hassabis, head of Google DeepMind, now claims that “It’ll come soon“—in less than 5-10 years, he says, would not surprise him.
Of course, these forecasts could be inaccurate. There’s a chance we may enter another AI winter, where chatbot advancements stagnate, robots falter, and venture capital shifts focus to another tech phenomenon. I personally don’t believe this will happen, but it’s a possibility. However, the core question remains: it’s not whether high-tech CEOs and billions in funding are directing efforts toward labor automation, but rather why they are so eager to pursue this goal and how the general populace feels about it.
The more optimistic viewpoint is that they genuinely believe a post-labor economy will spur significant economic growth and vastly enhance global living standards. The crucial question is whether historical patterns indicate that the fruits of this growth are equitably shared.
Alternatively, a less charitable interpretation is that it all boils down to money. Venture capitalist Mark Andreessen famously remarked, “Software eats the world.” Many sectors have been absorbed into this tech phenomenon. Regardless of the software developed, human effort remains essential for executing the majority of global work. However, Silicon Valley now sees an opening: a chance to control the entire means of production. If they choose not to seize this opportunity, they would not be true to their innovative spirit.
Ed Newton-Rex is a founder of a nonprofit certifying AI companies that respect creator rights and is the founder of Fally Trained. He serves as a visiting scholar at Stanford University.
when game designer and entrepreneur Henk Rogers first encountered Tetris at the 1988 Las Vegas Consumer Electronics Show, he immediately recognized its uniqueness. “It was just the perfect game,” he reflects. “It appeared very simple yet was fundamentally captivating, making me want to play it repeatedly. There had never been a demo for a game I hadn’t experienced before.”
Rogers is now a co-owner of the Tetris Company, which oversees and licenses the Tetris brand. Over three decades, he has gained fame equivalent to that of the game itself. The intrigue surrounding his acquisition of distribution rights from the Russian agency Elektronorgtechnica (Elorg) has been transformed into a dramatic Apple TV+ film featuring Taron Egerton. “I suggested that either Johnny Depp or Keanu Reeves should portray me, but it seems they were too old,” says Rogers.
Upon reading the script, casting was only one of his concerns. “It was appalling. I was clueless about how the script would translate into a film. It felt like a disaster… a car chase?”
Induces trance… Nintendo’s Game Boy Tetris. Photo: Graeme Robertson/The Guardian
However, during his pivotal journey to Russia in 1988, nothing could be more daunting than the KGB interrogation awaiting Rogers. Tetris has since become one of the most successful video games in history, selling over 520 million copies, although it was originally conceived by Alexei Pajitnov. This collection of mind-bending tetrominos was on the verge of being kept behind the Iron Curtain, confined to the Soviet regime.
Fortunately, a complex web of international rights agreements among multiple companies, including Robert Maxwell’s Mirrorsoft, ultimately led the Dutch Rogers, residing in Japan, to forge deals for handhelds. On his arrival in Moscow with a tourist visa, the KGB scrutinized Rogers closely. He managed to enter the state-owned enterprise Elorg, which held a monopoly on all Soviet-produced computer software. Upon meeting the mysterious coder behind this mesmerizing game, Rogers quickly realized he had been misled. The rights to Tetris had been “sold” without Russia’s knowledge, much to the displeasure of the Soviets.
“I was in a room with seven individuals, some of whom were KGB operatives, subjected to intense questioning for hours, like, ‘Who is entering the Soviet Union?'” recounts Rogers. It was there he first crossed paths with Pajitnov. “Alexei was initially skeptical of me because he had encountered other individuals seeking Tetris’ rights before. He perceived them all as slimy capitalists wanting to make a quick buck.” The film’s portrayal of this encounter stays true to reality, complete with tense interrogation scenes and KGB surveillance matching Rogers’ account.
“Once he learned I was a game designer, Alexei’s demeanor shifted entirely,” remembers Rogers. “Alexei had never met a game designer before… in the Soviet Union, there was no gaming industry, so game design was merely a side project amidst other work.”
Pajitnov in 1989. Photo: SIPA Press/Rex Features
Curious about another enthusiast, Alexei discreetly requested that Rogers find him post-meeting. The KGB monitored their every move, sensing the potential worth of the deal, and Rogers was acutely aware of the risks involved. “As a foreigner, I had to tread carefully. So, I waited by the door downstairs, took him to my room in the dead of night, and quietly showcased my version of Tetris.”
Rogers and Pajitnov have remained friends ever since, establishing the Tetris Company in 1996 after the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the sale of Elorg’s shares. Until that moment, Pajitnov had not seen any financial reward from the game.
The 2023 film did take some creative liberties (“I was perturbed about events that didn’t transpire in the film, like not witnessing my daughter sing at her recital. It premiered in theaters, and although the audience was particularly discerning, they cheered when they first glimpsed the boy in the game. Together, we received the most enthusiastic standing ovation from the crowd).
However, keen to share the deeper narratives of his journey, Rogers has just published a book titled Perfect Game: Tetris, Love from Russia. This work offers an introspective look at the events that brought Pajitnov’s creation to the world, frequently accompanied by mild corrections to errors, infused with fond memories from Pajitnov.
Pajitnov, Rogers, and Nintendo’s Mountain Village Forest at the company headquarters in Kyoto, Japan Photo: Nintendo Company Limited
The film underscores Rogers’ undeniable charisma and business acumen while somewhat underplaying his significance as a game developer. While living in Japan in 1983, he founded Bullet-Proof Software and created the impactful role-playing game The Black Onyx, which introduced an iconic health bar and introduced the RPG genre to Japanese audiences. The game’s manual was authored by Kenyō Suzuki, who later became the president of Squaresoft, the creators of the Final Fantasy series. The influence of Black Onyx extended even to the legendary Nintendo designer Miyamoto, who remarked that it inspired him to create Zelda.
Is it peculiar that Rogers’ narrative sometimes eclipses that of Pajitnov, the original creator of Tetris? “Alexei and I serve very different roles,” responds Rogers. “In narrating my part of the story, he wouldn’t undertake the same role. He is more introverted. If given the platform, he’d prefer to sit in a room and delve into mathematical discussions.”
“We created it in the desert”… the Tetris effect (2019). Photo: Enhance Games
New iterations of Tetris emerge every few years, with the 2019 psychedelic Tetris effect being a notable recent highlight, developed by Mizuguchi Tatsuya, the creator of the Dreamcast classic Rez. “Gucci — that’s what we call him — is a good friend,” Rogers shares. “We attended Burning Man together, where we redefined the Tetris effect in the desert, creating Tetris in VR and built that product.”
While Rogers still revels in the game (“Minecraft has truly done something innovative”), his priorities have shifted after experiencing a fatal heart attack in 2005. “I’ve wrapped up publishing the game,” he states. “I fully understand the labor involved, the finances required, and how much my heart needs to be committed. Now, my focus is combating climate change.”
Residing in Hawaii, Rogers has spent the last 20 years advocating for the island nation to commit to clean energy by 2030 through his Blue Planet Foundation. If anyone can save our planet, it’s the man who outsmarted Maxwell, evaded the KGB, and brought first the iconic blocks to life.
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Built as a reimagining of id Software’s 2016 “Doom Eternal,” “Dark Ages” diverges significantly while still echoing the essence of its lineage. Whereas the 2020 iteration focused on speed and evasion, “Dark Ages” emphasizes a staunch, grounded approach. If the previous game revolved around eliminating foes one at a time, this installment empowers players to obliterate hordes of demons simultaneously. The frantic, rapid-fire nature of “Eternal” gives way to a brute force mentality in “Dark Ages,” where smashing through enemies becomes the primary strategy. The essence of ripping and tearing is still prevalent, with an emphasis on raw power.
At the heart of “Dark Ages” lies a combat system reminiscent of the original 1993 game, drawing inspiration from slowly launched projectiles from iconic enemies like Imps, Kakodemons, and Hell Knights. This new chapter intensifies those encounters, featuring an array of foes that hurl fireballs, floating orbs, and energy barriers, all while straying from the traditional two-dimensional arena.
The interdimensional battlefield shimmers with energy.
Photo: ID Software
Players must navigate these new challenges as they control slower, heftier slayers of doom. Shields play a crucial defensive role against various projectiles, not only blocking attacks but also reflecting some back at their origin. Successfully countering projectile attacks catches opponents off guard and opens them up for “glorious kills.” Although brutal, these maneuvers are generally less intricate than in earlier games, often reduced to straightforward punches and kicks.
While many demons follow easily recognizable attack patterns, the most formidable adversaries engage in fierce close-range duels. These confrontations occur within expansive arenas, where smaller foes swarm around larger ones, often shielded by rows of undead minions. ID Software has introduced several innovative weapons to tackle these hellish legions, including railroad spike launchers that absorb demons and shotguns that deliver devastating close-quarter firepower.
The scale is remarkable.
Photo: ID Software
This captivating reformulation of core combat mechanics provides as much enjoyment in mastering its rhythm as it does in witnessing its destructive consequences. However, the slower pace and limited toolset may not evoke the same adrenaline rush at its peak as previous entries.
This slower pacing is amplified by the expansive design of “Dark Ages.” With 22 levels that are often open-ended, players can choose their battles and discover secrets in their preferred order. Yet, despite the impressive scale, the traversal can become monotonous, resulting in a feeling that the game may not fully capitalize on its combat potential.
ID Software tries to counteract the slow tempo by incorporating diverse gameplay mechanics. Certain maps allow players to pilot a massive mech named Atlan, delivering impactful punches to colossal demons, while others introduce aerial maneuvers atop dragons. While these elements bring novelty, they tend to lack significant depth, recalling the mandatory vehicle sections prevalent in early 2000s shooters.
Nonetheless, I appreciate the experimental nature of “Dark Ages.” The developers seem committed to exploring new directions, striving not to rely solely on past successes like some other franchises. Their goal appears to be redefining shooter mechanics with every new release. While “Dark Ages” may not reach the heights of previous ID Software titles, it remains a well-crafted and thoughtfully designed shooter that delivers heavy hitting moments.
Elizabeth Holmes’ partner and father of her child is said to have secured millions in funding to launch a new blood-testing company, which bears a striking resemblance to the firm that led Holmes, the founder of Theranos, to federal prison.
As reported by the New York Times, Billy Evans, the heir to a hotel fortune, is promoting his new venture, Haemanthus, to potential investors. Evans’ concept involves a health testing company capable of analyzing users’ blood, urine, and saliva.
The business model of Haemanthus and the pitch provided by Holmes-led Theranos show significant similarities.
Holmes founded Theranos in 2003 after her healthcare technology startup attracted substantial investments, boasting hundreds of millions from high-profile backers. She asserted that her company had developed a method for rapidly and accurately testing small blood samples to arrive at a diagnosis.
Haemanthus, according to its January patent, claims its technology can utilize sweat, urine, saliva, and small blood samples for diagnostics. The company, initiated by Evans, who has two children with Holmes, was established in February 2024 and plans to start animal testing before moving on to human trials.
The technology claims made by Theranos inflated its valuation to $9 billion in 2014. However, a critical investigation by the Wall Street Journal revealed significant inaccuracies in Theranos’ assertions, indicating the tests were not only illegal but also produced false results.
The scandal culminated in 2018 when the company was dissolved, leading to criminal charges against Holmes and the firm’s president. Holmes received an 11-year prison sentence in 2022 for defrauding investors.
Marketing materials for Haemanthus, as reviewed by The New York Times, indicate that the technology employs lasers to analyze blood, saliva, and urine from pets, promising rapid disease, cancer, or infection detection.
Reportedly, Haemanthus aims to develop compact, wearable versions of its devices for human use in the long run, according to The Times.
Several investors have already expressed interest in the pitch. While reportedly receiving guidance from Holmes, Evans has managed to raise nearly $20 million from friends and other backers.
Evans met Holmes in 2017 during the fraud investigation that resulted in her imprisonment. He is said to reside in Texas with their child, while Holmes serves her sentence approximately two hours away.
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