Google's robot constitution

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1. Google's robot constitution

Google's DeepMind team has introduced a "Robot Constitution" and technological enhancements for safer, smarter robotic decisions. Inspired by Asimov's Three Laws, the AutoRT system avoids risky interactions with humans and hazards, employing visual and language models for task understanding and decision-making. 

The robots, guided by safety protocols like automatic stops and kill switches, underwent extensive testing in office environments. With additional advancements like SARA-RT for precision and RT-Trajectory for physical tasks, Google's cautious approach is paving the way for future AI droids in everyday scenarios.

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2. OpenAI's GPT store set to launch

OpenAI is preparing to launch its GPT Store, a marketplace for applications built on its AI models, which has been highly anticipated since its announcement at the DevDay conference last year. This platform promises to simplify app creation for developers, offering a space where GPTs, tailored for tasks as diverse as culinary queries to code generation, can be listed after adhering to OpenAI's stringent guidelines. 

While the store's potential for democratizing AI app development is clear, its impact on traditional consultancies and the finer details of its operation, including monetization strategies, remain undisclosed. As the launch nears, the tech community eagerly awaits further details on how OpenAI's shift toward becoming a comprehensive platform will unfold.

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3. Samsung, Tesla and Hyundai to make smart homes

Samsung is setting the stage for a smart home revolution by partnering with Tesla and Hyundai, aiming to integrate home energy and vehicle automation into its SmartThings platform. This collaboration will allow Tesla and Hyundai EV owners to monitor and manage their home energy systems and vehicles directly from Samsung devices.

Users of Tesla's Powerwall, for example, can synchronize the 'Storm Watch' function to receive alerts on extreme weather through their Samsung TVs and smartphones, enhancing both convenience and safety. Similarly, Hyundai's partnership will enable seamless 'Home-to-Car' and 'Car-to-Home' services, allowing users to control various aspects of their homes and vehicles, from air conditioning to charging status. Set to be showcased at CES 2024, this initiative marks a significant stride towards a more interconnected and intelligent living environment.

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4. Perplexity AI to revolutionize search with $74M funding

Perplexity AI is making waves with a substantial $73.6 million Series B funding round, bringing its total raised capital to $100 million. With a valuation exceeding $500 million, the company is positioning itself as a formidable challenger to search engine giants like Google and Microsoft. Perplexity AI's search platform merges web indexes with various AI models to deliver a seamless, conversational experience, eliminating the need for traditional web sifting. 

Co-founder Aravind Srinivas emphasizes the commitment to accuracy and transparency in an era marred by misinformation. The platform, which boasts 10 million monthly active users and impressive query numbers, offers both free and Pro versions, the latter providing enhanced features and model choices.

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5. Waymo's safety is surpassing human standards

Waymo has significantly surpassed human driving benchmarks, demonstrating an 85% reduction in injury-related crashes and a 57% reduction in police-reported incidents over 7 million miles of autonomous driving. The achievement, highlighted in recent safety papers, indicates a substantial improvement in road safety, with 17 fewer injuries and 20 fewer police-reported crashes compared to human drivers.

The Waymo Driver's comprehensive evaluation and transparent approach aim to continuously enhance its performance and contribute to the broader understanding and advancement of autonomous driving safety.

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