AI Shocks Again: AGI Levels by OpenAI, Grok 2 and Neuralink Update, Miss AI 2024 & More!

OpenAI's Five-Level Roadmap to AGI

The landscape of artificial intelligence is evolving rapidly, and OpenAI is at the forefront of this transformation. The company has introduced a five-level system to measure its progress toward achieving Artificial General Intelligence (AGI). Currently, OpenAI is advancing to the second level, which focuses on developing problem-solving capabilities.

OpenAI's roadmap consists of five distinct levels:

1. Conversational AI
2. Reasoners
3. Agents
4. Innovators
5. Superintelligence

The first level, which we are currently in, is characterised by conversational AI, such as chatbots. The second level, termed "Reasoners," involves AI that can tackle basic problems akin to a human with a doctorate but lacking tools. The third level, "Agents," refers to AI capable of executing tasks on behalf of users over extended periods.

The fourth level, "Innovators," describes AI that can contribute to new inventions. Recently, OpenAI showcased a project using GPT-4, demonstrating human-like reasoning abilities. This structured approach to defining levels allows for updates based on feedback from employees, investors, and the board.

Interestingly, OpenAI disbanded its super alignment team focused on AI's existential risks in May. Their work is now integrated into various research initiatives within the company, reflecting a commitment to addressing ethical concerns while advancing technology.

Elon Musk's Updates on Grok 2 and Neuralink

In recent news, Elon Musk has provided significant updates regarding Grok 2, the next iteration of his AI tool. Scheduled for release next month, Grok 2 is currently undergoing fine-tuning and bug fixes. This new version will be accessible to all X platform users who subscribe to the premium plus service, priced at $16 per month or $22 via the app.

Unlike traditional chatbots like ChatGPT, Grok is designed to be witty and politically incorrect, offering real-time knowledge of current events. It is fully integrated into the X platform, enhancing user interaction and engagement.

Musk also shared insights into XAI's ambitious plans, indicating that the chatbot is trained on 24,000 H100 GPUs. The team is working towards developing a 100k H100 system to establish the fastest training cluster globally, demonstrating Musk's commitment to leading the AI race without external partnerships.

Moreover, Musk announced exciting advancements in Neuralink's brain chip technology. These chips, featuring tiny wires and electrodes, aim to monitor and stimulate brain activity. The current focus is on aiding individuals with neurological conditions, with the first patient reportedly experiencing significant improvements post-implantation.

Musk envisions future enhancements for healthy individuals, potentially integrating Tesla's humanoid robot components to provide cybernetic superpowers. The next Neuralink patient is set to receive an implant soon, with innovations aimed at increasing the chip's capabilities while ensuring safety through measures like skull sculpting.

Samsung's Bixby Upgrade and AI Integration

Samsung is poised to launch an upgraded version of its voice assistant, Bixby, in the near future. According to TM Roh, Samsung's mobile chief, the new Bixby will leverage Samsung's proprietary AI models. This upgrade is part of a broader strategy to infuse more AI features across its device lineup.

Launched in 2017 with the Galaxy S8, Bixby has provided various functionalities, including live translations and restaurant recommendations. The upcoming version will incorporate generative AI technology, significantly enhancing its capabilities.

Despite these upgrades, Samsung will maintain compatibility with multiple voice assistants, including Google's AI system. This move aligns with Apple's plans to enhance Siri using AI technologies, including integration with OpenAI's ChatGPT.

Samsung's approach aims to make its products more appealing, with increased AI features expected to drive the sales of new devices. Recently, the company unveiled new foldable phones, the Galaxy Z Fold 6 and Z Flip 6, alongside innovative AI tools to elevate user convenience and satisfaction.

Corporate Shifts and AI Strategy

Microsoft and Apple are stepping back from OpenAI's board amidst escalating antitrust scrutiny. Microsoft, which invested $13 billion in OpenAI, relinquished its Observer seat, while Apple has decided not to join the board. Instead, OpenAI will hold regular meetings with partners like Microsoft and Apple to maintain engagement.

This shift comes as antitrust authorities in the US and EU closely examine big tech investments in AI startups. Microsoft has recognised sufficient progress to step back while still valuing its partnership with OpenAI, which has driven demand for Microsoft’s AI services.

Claude Sonet 3.5's User-Friendly Update

Claude Sonet 3.5 recently received significant updates that simplify the process of creating AI prompts. Anthropics, the company behind Claude, has introduced new features that allow users to generate, test, and evaluate prompts with ease.

This updated version is already outperforming competitors, topping the S&P Global leaderboard and surpassing ChatGPT and Google Gemini. Users can now create high-quality prompts without the typical hassle, with features allowing for side-by-side comparisons of outputs.

Claude Sonet 3.5 is available for free on the cloud and the Claude iOS app, making it accessible to a wider audience. The introduction of these user-friendly features marks a significant step forward in making AI tools more approachable for everyone.

Miss AI 2024: A New Era of Virtual Beauty Pageants

In a groundbreaking development, Kenza Ley, an AI-generated Moroccan influencer, has been crowned Miss AI 2024 in a virtual beauty pageant. This event showcased 1,500 AI-generated contestants, with Ley standing out for her realism and representation of Moroccan Arab, African, and Muslim women in technology.

The pageant, created by Mariam Bessa from the Moroccan media agency Latell Digital and AI, highlighted the importance of women empowerment and sisterhood. Ley’s victory not only reflects advancements in AI but also raises questions about beauty standards and societal expectations.

While the rise of AI influencers offers opportunities, it also raises concerns about perpetuating unrealistic beauty ideals. Critics argue that these digital creations can reinforce flawed notions of attractiveness, sparking a necessary dialogue about the implications of AI in our lives.

AMD's Strategic Acquisition of Silo AI

AMD is making headlines with its acquisition of Silo AI, a Finnish AI developer, for $665 million. This deal, expected to close later this year, will integrate Silo AI into AMD's artificial intelligence group, known for its MI30 machine learning accelerators.

Silo AI specialises in automating tasks and creating custom language models for large enterprises. Their expertise includes developing neural networks for various applications, including fault detection in production lines. With over 200 completed projects for major companies, Silo AI brings invaluable experience to AMD.

This acquisition will enhance AMD's AI strategy by streamlining the setup of large AI clusters and improving customer experience with its processors. AMD's commitment to advancing AI capabilities is evident through previous acquisitions, including Nod.ai, which enhances AI model performance.

Conclusion

The advancements in AI technology, as demonstrated by the initiatives from OpenAI, Elon Musk, Samsung, and others, indicate a rapidly evolving landscape. From the pursuit of AGI to innovative applications in everyday technology and the unique intersection of AI with beauty standards, the future of AI holds both exciting opportunities and critical challenges.

As we navigate these changes, it is essential to remain informed and engaged with the developments shaping our world. The integration of AI into various sectors promises to revolutionise how we interact with technology, but it also necessitates careful consideration of ethical implications and societal impacts.