QFM045: Machine Intelligence Reading List December 2024
Everything that I found interesting last month about machines behaving intelligently.
Tags: qfm, machine, intelligence, reading, list, december, 2024
This month’s edition of the Machine Intelligence Reading List starts at the intersection of AI and security, wanders past the impact on human creativity, exploring themes of practical applications of AI, its philosophical implications and consequences, and finishes up wondering what the combination of AI and quantum computing might look like. Let’s dig in.
The intersection of AI and security is exemplified by OWASP Expands GenAI Security Guidance, where the focus is on safeguarding generative AI applications against emerging threats such as deepfakes. This expansion reflects a growing need to address the ethical and operational risks posed by advanced AI systems.
OpenAI’s Sora, a text-to-video generation model that pushes the boundaries of multimedia production is now generally available. Similarly, Delphi.AI highlights how digital cloning can enable individuals to scale their presence and productivity by creating AI-driven human(esque) replicas.
Building LLMs is probably not going to be a brilliant business critiques the profitability of developing large language models. The analysis draws parallels with the airline industry, arguing that structural inefficiencies may prevent sustained success despite technological appeal. A more optimistic view is offered by “AI Inside” Opens New Markets for Vertical SaaS, where AI’s ability to unlock niche markets illustrates its potential to drive innovation.
Philosophical reflections on AI’s relationship with humanity appear in AI Is the Black Mirror and Being Human in the Age of AI. These articles challenge the notion of AI as a replacement for human cognition, instead emphasising the importance of emotional intelligence and human connection as defining features of our species. Both pieces caution against over-reliance on AI, advocating for a balanced approach to its integration, continuing the theme that augmentation is better (for humanity) than replacement.
The evolution of AI interfaces and their role in reshaping human-computer interaction is explored in Computing inside an AI. This article envisions a future where AI tools function more like dynamic computer applications than conversational agents, offering new possibilities for productivity and creativity.
Finally, we take a look at the frontier of quantum computing in Ask Ethan: Does quantum computation occur in parallel universes?. While speculative connections to multiverse theories remain unsubstantiated (and disappointingly click-bait-y), the advancements represented by Google’s Willow chip underscore the accelerating pace of innovation in quantum technologies.
As always, the Quantum Fax Machine Propellor Hat Key will guide your browsing. Enjoy!
OWASP Expands GenAI Security Guidance: OWASP has expanded its security guidance for generative AI applications with new resources targeting deepfake protection, AI security centers of excellence, and comprehensive security solutions. This initiative, part of the OWASP Top 10 for LLM Application Security Project, involves over 500 experts who provide best practices for securing large language models and generative AI against emerging threats. Through collaboration with global security standards bodies, OWASP aims to equip organizations with tools and strategies to effectively govern and manage AI risks.
#AIsecurity
#GenerativeAI
#Deepfakes
#OWASP
#cybersecurity
Sora is here: OpenAI has launched Sora, a text-to-video AI model that generates realistic videos from text prompts. Sora is available to ChatGPT Plus and Pro users, allowing the creation of videos up to 20 seconds in various resolutions and aspect ratios. OpenAI has implemented safeguards to prevent misuse, including restrictions on depicting realistic human likenesses.
#AI
#VideoGeneration
#OpenAI
#Sora
#TextToVideo
Introducing Delphi.AI: Delphi is a digital cloning platform that enables users to create AI-driven replicas of themselves, capturing their unique style, voice, and expertise. These digital clones can handle tasks such as content creation, client support, and scheduling, allowing individuals to scale their availability and interactions without being physically present.
#AI
#DigitalCloning
#Automation
#Productivity
#DelphiAI
Building LLMs is probably not going to be a brilliant business: The article discusses why building large language models (LLMs) may not be a sustainable or profitable business despite their technological appeal. It compares the industry’s structure to other historical examples where technological innovation did not equate to business success. The dependence on key suppliers like NVIDIA and the lack of consumer loyalty impact profitability, similar to issues seen in the airline industry. In contrast, companies like Coca-Cola thrive due to favorable industry structures.
#AI
#LLMs
#BusinessStrategy
#TechIndustry
#CocaCola
“AI Inside” Opens New Markets for Vertical SaaS: Andreessen Horowitz’s article explores how incorporating AI into Vertical SaaS (VSaaS) can open new markets for previously underserved niche industries such as dry-cleaning, chiropractic, and veterinary services. By increasing the life-time value of customers and reducing customer acquisition costs through AI, these markets become viable with enhanced revenue potential through software solutions. The article argues that AI can transform ‘small’ markets into larger opportunities by replacing labor costs with AI-driven tools and software, ultimately creating new growth potential for VSaaS companies by capturing more substantial market shares in specialized fields. The focus is on utilizing software to manage and automate workflows, enhancing the profitability and scalability of these niche segments.
#AI
#SaaS
#VerticalMarkets
#Innovation
#Technology
AI Is the Black Mirror: The article discusses the close relationship between artificial intelligence and the human mind, exploring both the awe and fear this connection provokes. Philosopher Shannon Vallor argues against the idea that AI is a mind, suggesting that such views diminish human cognition and undervalue our unique talents. While acknowledging AI’s potential benefits, the article warns against relying too heavily on AI, advocating for a careful approach to its advancements.
#AI
#Technology
#Philosophy
#HumanMind
#ScienceCulture
Computing inside an AI: Will Whitney explores the potential for AI models to evolve beyond current metaphors of human-like interaction into tools similar to computer applications. The article argues that viewing AI as a computer, offering graphical interfaces and direct input capabilities, could unlock more efficient and comprehensive functionalities, especially for productive work. Rather than treating models as conversational partners, they could serve as dynamic, generative tools enhancing real-time interaction and creativity in fields such as design and content creation.
#AI
#Technology
#Innovation
#InterfaceDesign
#FutureOfWork
Being Human in the Age of AI: In the age of AI, our sense of identity is challenged as artificial intelligence systems surpass human cognitive capabilities. The article explores the philosophical implications of depending too much on intelligence for our self-worth and suggests that embracing the changes brought by AI with resilience and adaptability can lead to a better understanding of what it means to be human. It further argues that rather than viewing intelligence as the defining aspect of humanity, our ability to experience emotions and connect with others is what truly distinguishes us.
#ArtificialIntelligence
#Identity
#Humanity
#Philosophy
#Transformation
Ask Ethan: Does quantum computation occur in parallel universes?: The article discusses the significant advances in quantum computing, focusing on Google’s new Willow quantum chip. The Willow chip, boasting over 100 qubits and improved quantum error correction, reportedly performs calculations exponentially faster than classical computers, though it does not support claims about parallel universes. Despite speculative claims about multiverses linked to quantum computing, the article clarifies that current developments do not substantiate these theories, maintaining that all quantum computations occur within our familiar universe.
#QuantumComputing
#Multiverse
#GoogleQuantum
#QuantumErrorCorrection
#Innovation
Regards,
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Originally published on quantumfaxmachine.com and cross-posted on Medium.
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