Tag Archives: opportunity

More Britons View AI as an Economic Threat Instead of an Opportunity, Tony Blair’s Think Tank Finds

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A think tank associated with Tony Blair suggests that the public perceives artificial intelligence more as an economic threat rather than a benefit.

The Tony Blair Institute cautioned that these poll findings could jeopardize Keir Starmer’s vision for the UK to become an AI “superpower,” urging the government to persuade the populace about the positive impacts of this technology.

According to a survey conducted by TBI, 38% of Britons see AI as a potential economic risk, while only 20% regard it as an opportunity. The survey, which included over 3,700 adults, also revealed that a lack of trust is the primary barrier to AI adoption.

Jakob Mökander, the director of science and technology policy at TBI, stated that the UK’s primary path to becoming an AI superpower lies in adopting cutting-edge technology. He expressed concerns that the current poll results jeopardize this aspiration.

Mökander noted, “A nation can achieve AI superpower status either by leading in development or by being a frontrunner in adoption.” He acknowledged that while the UK will not lead in development—domains dominated by the US and China—it can excel in adoption. However, he emphasized that without fostering public trust in technology, this goal is unattainable.

The UK government has identified AI as a cornerstone of its economic growth strategy, aiming for the country to become “one of the great AI superpowers” in the near future.

Nonetheless, there is considerable voter concern regarding the economic ramifications and job implications associated with AI. Entities such as TBI, the International Monetary Fund, and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development predict that AI—defined as systems that can undertake tasks typically requiring human intelligence—will profoundly affect the labor market. TBI estimates that AI may lead to a shift of between 1 million and 3 million private sector jobs in the UK, although they anticipate that the total job loss will be mitigated as technology creates new positions.

Meanwhile, recruitment agencies have indicated that sectors expected to be influenced by AI, like graduate recruitment, have not yet experienced significant changes attributable to AI.

Furthermore, TBI’s polling indicates a divide between AI users and non-users, revealing that more than half of those unacquainted with the technology perceive it as a risk. In contrast, only a quarter of those who regularly use AI regard it as a threat.

Mökander stated that there is a pressing need to articulate potential benefits, like establishing AI reliability through regulations, shortening NHS wait times, and allowing individuals more family time.

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Regarding the need for regulations akin to those for vaccines, Mökander emphasized educating the public and promoting positive campaigns to cultivate healthy perceptions.

The TBI has garnered significant funding from tech magnate Larry Ellison and released findings indicating the advantageous applications of AI. The report suggests measuring AI’s beneficial impact accurately and promoting responsible regulations to foster AI skill development.

A spokesperson for the UK government stated that public trust is vital for effective AI utilization and highlighted initiatives aimed at enhancing AI skills and recruitment.

“With approximately 10 million workers projected to use AI in their daily roles by 2035, it is crucial that the workforce is equipped with both the skills and confidence to engage with this technology,” the spokesperson remarked.

Source: www.theguardian.com

An Opportunity to Safeguard the UK’s Creative Industry from AI Threats is Slipping Away

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For months, icons from various fields such as music, literature, product design, and visual arts have been sounding the alarm about the UK government’s plans to weaken copyright laws. The conflict escalated when the government started discussions about regulating artificial intelligence, leading to a “favorable” outcome for AI companies. These companies can automatically infringe on copyrights unless the original creators explicitly “opt out.” However, opting out is impossible without transparency in AI operations. This plan is essentially a charter for theft, as creators are left in the dark about who, what, when, and how their work might be exploited.

It’s understandable to be frustrated when the government prioritizes positive outcomes at the expense of your moral rights and earning potential. As Elton John stated last weekend: “The government has no right to interfere with my song. They shouldn’t do it with anyone else’s work either.” He is just one of thousands of British creators raising their voices in protest.

My colleagues and I in the Senate have taken action where the government has faltered, advocating for critical transparency measures in the Data (Usage and Access) Bill, which is currently progressing through Congress. Our amendments aim to uphold existing copyright laws, ensuring that copyright holders are informed about when, where, and by whom their work is used to train AI. The rationale is that if AI companies are required to prove their use of others’ work, they are less likely to infringe on rights in the first place. These amendments received substantial support from members across all parties, including notable backing from the government’s own backbenchers, as I voted in favor.

Ultimately, Secretary of State for Technology Peter Kyle had to face criticism in the House on Thursday. He acknowledged that “much content has already been utilized and is commonly employed by AI models under existing laws from other regions,” while ignoring the Lords’ provisions against such theft. He expressed admiration for artists like Kate Bush—one of over 400 supporters—along with Paul McCartney and Ian McKellen. I signed a letter to the Prime Minister urging policy changes; yet, no substantial changes were made. There remains a lack of transparency, no timeline, and no support for creatives.

This week, the government again missed the opportunity to rectify the situation for one of our largest industries, which employs 2.4 million people and contributes £126 billion to the economy, providing countless joys across the UK. No MPs rallied to defend the government. Instead, Kyle faced a barrage of criticism over his failure to manage the crisis. As one lawmaker put it, “One of our biggest industrial sectors is in flames, while the minister seems to be having a picnic with the arsonists.”

While the government could maneuver its way to passing specific legislation with its majority, such victories would spell disaster for the creative sector and the UK’s domestic AI economy. Ironically, he criticized the government’s approach in favor of major US corporations.

The UK creative industry is a vital part of our heritage, preserving our shared narratives and telling the story of our nation. A country that allows its storytellers to thrive is inherently stronger. Nevertheless, the battle is far from over—the Data (Usage and Access) Bill is scheduled to return to the Lords on June 2nd.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Ex-CIA Agent Seizing Opportunity in Rising European Military Investment

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During a recent 24-hour swing through Copenhagen, Eric Thlesinger, a former CIA executive turned venture capitalist, met with a Maritime Drone engineer and advisor to NATO. He also had dinner with a senior UK intelligence official in London and visited the Arctic to study techniques for extreme climates.

Mr. Thlesinger’s packed schedule reflects his shift from CIA work to focusing on European defense and national security technology. He has become a sought-after investor in defense startups, supporting eight companies with negotiations underway for several more.

“This is all happening at Warp Speed,” Slesinger commented on his rapid career transformation.

In response to President Trump’s questioning of transatlantic relations, European governments are planning significant investments in defense technology. This has sparked a race among engineers, entrepreneurs, and investors to capitalize on the boom in defense startups.

Mr. Thlesinger’s move to Europe four years ago foresaw the need for increased defense spending as US protection was no longer guaranteed. His venture capital firm, 201 Ventures, is now investing in European startups focused on defense technology.

His first investments include companies in maritime drones, manufacturing technology, artificial intelligence, and polar vehicles.

Recognizing Europe’s need to catch up in defense technology, Mr. Thlesinger’s 201 Ventures received support from the NATO Innovation Fund. His national security experience is valuable in identifying companies with the capabilities to win government contracts.

Slesinger’s unconventional path from CIA engineer to venture capitalist reflects his vision for reshaping Europe’s defense industry. His investments aim to bridge the technology gap and prepare for future military transformations.

With geopolitical shifts and heightened security concerns, European countries are reevaluating their defense capabilities. Mr. Thlesinger’s European Defense Investor Network is at the forefront of connecting investors and entrepreneurs in this rapidly evolving landscape.

Thlesinger’s global travels and investments reflect his commitment to advancing European defense technology. From the Arctic to Switzerland, he explores cutting-edge technologies and potential partnerships.

Following calls for increased military spending in Europe, Slesinger anticipates a surge in demand for defense startups. The Munich Security Conference highlighted the shifting alliances and the need for European countries to rely less on the US for security.

As questions persist about his CIA background, Mr. Thlesinger remains focused on his mission to support innovation in European defense technology.

Source: www.nytimes.com

Alphabet Embraces Rare AI Opportunity as Revenue Rises

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Shares of Alphabet, the owner of Google and YouTube, surged following the company’s announcement of its inaugural dividend and a substantial increase in profits for the last quarter.

CEO Sundar Pichai lauded the shift to artificial intelligence as a rare opportunity and emphasized the company’s swift adoption of technology across all sectors.

Investors were pleased with the company’s financial results and the news of a $70 billion share repurchase.

Google’s Q1 2024 revenue reached $80.5 billion, with earnings per share ranging from $1.17 to $1.89, marking a 15% year-over-year increase, surpassing analysts’ expectations on both fronts.

Alphabet’s shares climbed approximately 15% in after-hours trading. An initial dividend of $0.20 per share was declared, with payments scheduled quarterly.


“Our first quarter results reflect strong performance in search, YouTube, and cloud services. We are propelling into the Gemini era with significant momentum across the organization,” Pichai stated in a press release.

Alphabet CFO Ruth Porat noted that revenue from Google Search ads and Google Cloud contributed to overall positive growth. Revenue from YouTube and Google Cloud surpassed Wall Street’s estimates, with Cloud’s operating profit quadrupling to $900 million. Despite a 10% increase in traffic acquisition costs, Alphabet saw strong financial performance.

Analyst Nikhil Rai from Forrester Research commented on Alphabet’s exceptional quarter driven by robust search and YouTube advertising revenue, though challenges remain in monetizing conversational search and measuring branded media impact.

Recent internal and external controversies have disrupted Google’s operations, with financial results coinciding with employee protests, antitrust concerns, and the delayed rollout of the Gemini AI tool.

Google’s stock price has continued to climb despite ongoing legal battles and internal turmoil, positioning the company for potential growth pending the outcome of key antitrust proceedings.

Despite setbacks related to Gemini AI and controversies surrounding business contracts, Google remains resilient in the face of challenges and is actively reshaping its operations in response to market dynamics.

Source: www.theguardian.com