The United States experienced a significant surge in large-scale battery storage installations in 2023, driven by the Inflation Reduction Act's incentives and the need to support the growing renewable energy grid. According to a report from the American Clean Power Association, the U.S. added a record-breaking 7.9 gigawatts of utility-scale battery storage capacity last year, …
This article, based on the 'Uncanny Valley' podcast, covers several recent developments in the AI industry. It reports on a wave of resignations from AI safety researchers at OpenAI, who left due to concerns that safety culture had taken a backseat to product development. The piece also details an incident where AI-powered bots on the …
Scientists have solved the long-standing mystery of Antarctica's Blood Falls, a striking red waterfall that flows from the Taylor Glacier. The phenomenon, first discovered in 1911, was long thought to be caused by red algae. However, new research reveals the true source: the water originates from a subglacial reservoir rich in iron. When this iron-rich …
The United States experienced a significant surge in large-scale battery storage installations in 2023, adding a record amount of capacity to the power grid. This boom was driven by a combination of supportive federal policies, state-level clean energy goals, and the need to manage the growing share of intermittent renewable energy sources like solar and …
This episode of the Uncanny Valley podcast covers several key developments in the AI industry. It reports on the resignations of prominent AI researchers from OpenAI, who left to start a new company focused on safe AI development. The episode also details an emerging trend where AI-powered bots are now being used to hire human …
Perplexity AI, the AI-powered search engine, has reversed its recent decision to introduce search ads into its interface. The company initially tested placing small, labeled ads at the bottom of some search results but faced significant user backlash, leading to the quick removal of the feature. This retreat highlights the unique challenges AI-native companies face …
The article reports that Perplexity AI, a search engine startup, has removed all advertisements from its platform. This move is described as a significant strategic shift away from the traditional search engine business model, which relies heavily on ad revenue. The decision appears to be driven by a focus on improving the user experience and …
Major technology companies like Google and Microsoft are promoting generative AI as a powerful tool for combating climate change, citing potential applications in optimizing energy grids, accelerating scientific discovery, and improving climate modeling. However, the article notes a significant lack of concrete evidence or detailed plans to support these ambitious environmental claims. Critics argue that …
Nvidia's recent deal to supply Meta with its next-generation Blackwell AI chips highlights a significant shift in the technology landscape, where computing power is becoming a critical strategic asset. The agreement involves Meta purchasing hundreds of thousands of Nvidia's H100 GPUs and committing to its upcoming B100 and B200 models. This massive investment underscores the …
A defense technology company called Lab Scout AI is developing autonomous AI agents designed to identify and destroy targets. The agents, which operate on a 'kill chain' model, use computer vision to locate objects like drones, vehicles, or artillery pieces and can then trigger an explosive payload. The company's CEO states the technology is intended …
