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    It’s already the year of AI again

    enJanuary 05, 2024
    How is CES shifting its focus this year?
    What AI features are highlighted for Windows laptops?
    What legal issues arise from AI and copyrighted content?
    Why is compensation for content creators being discussed?
    What potential economic impacts do AI models pose for creators?

    Podcast Summary

    • CES Focuses on Innovative Devices AgainCES is returning to showcasing groundbreaking gadgets and ideas, with a focus on AI-enabled Windows laptops and small business insurance offerings from State Farm.

      CES is returning to its roots as a platform for innovative gadgets and ideas, rather than just minor upgrades or European novelties. The convergence of technology into smartphones and computers had made CES seem less exciting in recent years, but the trend is now shifting back towards new and interesting devices. For example, Windows laptops with AI features are expected to be a major focus at this year's CES. Additionally, the hosts discussed their personal experiences and shared insights from the investment world on the Capital Ideas Podcast. State Farm was highlighted for its small business insurance offerings and the advantage of having agents who are also small business owners.

    • AI integration and legal complexities in tech trendsThe tech industry is focusing on AI and new products, but legal complexities are emerging, emphasizing the need for clearer guidelines

      We're witnessing a shift in tech trends towards AI integration and innovation in mature devices, marking a potential deconvergence from smartphone dependency. This is evident in the tech industry's renewed focus on AI and the emergence of new, exciting products. However, the legal landscape for AI is becoming more complex, with The New York Times suing OpenAI for copyright infringement, joining a growing list of plaintiffs. While the Times' lawsuit may not be the pivotal moment for AI as some claim, it does highlight the need for clearer guidelines and regulations in the rapidly evolving AI industry. Overall, these developments underscore the importance of staying informed and adaptable in the face of technological change.

    • Understanding Fair Use's Blurred LinesFair use is a complex legal concept where the outcome is uncertain. To argue for fair use, acknowledge copying, then demonstrate transformative, useful use or other qualifying factors.

      Fair use law is a complex and unpredictable area of the law. No one can guarantee an outcome, as cases are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. The idea of "blurred lines" is often used to describe the uncertainty surrounding what constitutes copyright infringement versus fair use. For instance, the use of a New York Times article or a song melody might not be illegal just because it's known or similar to an existing work. However, to make a fair use argument, one must acknowledge that they have made a copy without permission, and then demonstrate that their use of the copied material is transformative, useful, or falls under other qualifying factors. Ultimately, the outcome of fair use cases is uncertain and can depend on various factors, including the specific use, the nature of the copyrighted work, and the intentions of the user.

    • Legal and ethical debates over data usage in language model creationThe use of large datasets for training language models raises complex questions about ownership, fair use, and compensation for original creators. The outcome of ongoing legal cases could shape the future of data usage and the balance between innovation and compensation.

      The legal and ethical boundaries of data usage, particularly in the context of creating large language models like OpenAI's, are being challenged and debated. The use of vast amounts of data for training these models raises questions about ownership, fair use, and compensation for the original creators. The case between OpenAI and The New York Times, involving the use of news articles for training, highlights these complexities. While some argue for fair use and the creation of new products based on the copied data, others believe that payments or licensing agreements are necessary to respect the intellectual property rights of the original creators. The music industry's experience with sampling provides a potential analogy, illustrating how a market for remixing and reusing work can emerge over time. Ultimately, the outcome of this case and others like it could significantly impact the future of data usage and the balance between innovation and compensation.

    • AI use of copyrighted material raises ethical and economic questionsThe use of copyrighted material by AI models for generating responses or content raises ethical and economic questions, with the New York Times lawsuit against OpenAI highlighting the need for clear compensation for content creators, but the economics and implications are complex and not yet resolved.

      The use of copyrighted material by AI models for generating responses or content raises important ethical and economic questions. The New York Times' lawsuit against OpenAI highlights the need for clear compensation for parties whose content is used to train these models. However, the issue is complex, as human memory is fallible, and AI does not change or forget information. Additionally, the economic implications are significant, as these AI models can potentially save costs for consumers by providing information directly, but they also have rising costs for the companies providing the infrastructure. Furthermore, there's a potential for a zero-sum game in the value of information, as the use of AI models could potentially take away readership and revenue from content creators. Ultimately, the moral argument for compensation is that there should be money at the end of the line for those contributing to the creation and training of the AI models. However, the economics of this are not yet clear, and the issue is far from resolved.

    • The Complexity of Copyright Law in the Digital AgeThe speaker discusses concerns over the potential devaluation of traditional media, the shift from a culture of remixing to monetization, and the importance of considering market impact in determining fair use in the digital age.

      The debate around the value of digital work and the application of copyright law in the digital age is a complex issue. The speaker expresses concerns about the potential devaluation of traditional media, such as newspapers, in the face of the insistence that digital work has value. They also discuss the shift from a culture of remixing to one of monetization, and the challenges this presents for creators and platforms alike. The speaker emphasizes the importance of considering the impact of digital use on the original work's market, as a key factor in determining fair use. They also point out that the application of fair use analysis is subjective and can vary greatly depending on the judge's interpretation. The New York Times' lawsuit against OpenAI, which uses its content to argue that OpenAI is replacing the market for the New York Times, is an example of this issue. The speaker suggests that this fourth factor, the market impact, is likely to be heavily weighted in such cases. Overall, the speaker highlights the need for a nuanced understanding of the intersection of copyright law, digital culture, and the economy.

    • AI models and copyrighted materials: Legal and ethical questionsAI models using copyrighted materials raise legal and ethical concerns, including potential job loss and content homogenization, with no clear legal precedent or closed ecosystem in digital media.

      The use of AI models like ChatGPT and Bard in generating content based on copyrighted materials, such as news articles, raises significant legal and ethical questions. These models not only have access to vast amounts of data, but they can also manipulate and repurpose that data in ways that could potentially harm the original creators or publishers. The absence of a clear legal precedent and the lack of a closed ecosystem in the digital media landscape add to the complexity of the issue. The potential consequences include the loss of jobs for human content creators and the homogenization of content. The hypothetical example of tech companies buying media organizations to use their content for AI training underscores the need for clear guidelines and regulations to prevent such abuses. Ultimately, the question of whether this incentive is the right one for creating content is open-ended and raises broader concerns about the role of AI in media and journalism.

    • Exploring Art and Unforgettable VacationsDiscover unique experiences through Art Beats and Lyrics doc, Viator for vacations, and copyright law's potential impact on Google, all while keeping up with CES trends.

      There are interesting and unique experiences to be had both in the art world and during vacations. During the discussion, we learned about the Art Beats and Lyrics documentary, which showcases the growth and cultural impact of an art show in Atlanta. Meanwhile, Viator was introduced as a tool to help travelers plan unforgettable trips by booking guided tours, activities, and excursions. Moving on, copyright law was briefly touched upon, with the intriguing notion that it might be the law that could potentially break Google in the future. Lastly, the upcoming Consumer Electronics Show (CES) was discussed, with the suggestion that companies often release less exciting products before CES to generate hype and save the most impressive innovations for the event itself. Whether it's exploring the art scene, planning a memorable vacation, or keeping up with the latest technology trends, there's always something new and exciting to discover.

    • Display spec wars and old-timey aestheticsCompanies compete for fastest monitors while old-timey designs remain popular. Smart TV features in computer monitors and portable projectors add versatility.

      The world of technology is constantly evolving, with companies like Samsung and LG engaging in display spec wars to offer the best and fastest monitors for gamers. Old-timey aesthetics continue to be popular, as seen in the old-timey font used for a song's album cover. Meanwhile, the trend of combining smart TV features into computer monitors is gaining popularity, allowing for a single device to serve multiple functions. Additionally, smaller, portable projectors like LG's Cinebeam Cube offer a unique and visually appealing alternative to traditional displays. The race for higher refresh rates and resolution may eventually plateau, but the excitement around these advancements shows no signs of slowing down.

    • Design-focused technology blends into homesCompanies prioritize design, devices blend into home decor, consumers segment tech use, sound bars offer streamlined audio solutions

      Technology companies are starting to prioritize design and aesthetics in their products, moving away from the utilitarian, plastic look that has dominated for decades. This shift is evident in the growing popularity of devices like The Frame TV, which is designed to blend in with home decor when not in use. Companies are recognizing that consumers want technology that fits seamlessly into their lives and surroundings, rather than standing out as gadgets. This trend is likely to continue, with design leading the way in the next generation of technology. Additionally, consumers are also segmenting their tech use into specific spaces in their homes, such as offices and home theaters, and are looking for solutions that cater to these needs without cluttering up their living spaces. Sound bars, for example, have become popular as an alternative to multiple speakers, offering a more streamlined solution for improved audio quality. Overall, this shift towards design-focused technology that seamlessly integrates into our lives is an interesting development in the tech industry.

    • Technology merges with everyday objects for a more beautiful and functional lifeAt CES, expect to see technology integrated into various devices, making them more accessible, beautiful, and functional, from laptops and refrigerators to lighting.

      Technology is becoming more integrated into everyday objects, making them more beautiful and functional. The trend towards ambient computing, where computers disappear into the background and become part of everyday life, is back, but with a twist. Instead of computers being hidden away, they are being designed to be seen and integrated into various devices. With the advancement of technology in smartphones, it's now possible to put complete computers into different things as single-purpose objects. This not only lets us get to the design element but also makes technology more accessible and user-friendly. At CES, we'll see a lot of this trend, including the integration of technology into lighting, refrigerators, and laptops. For instance, Dell's new XPS lineup features laptops with larger batteries and discrete graphics, all in sleek designs. Samsung's new smart fridge, the Bespoke Four-Door Flex refrigerator with AI Family Hub Plus, is another example of technology being integrated into everyday objects in a meaningful way. Overall, the future of technology is about making it more accessible, beautiful, and functional, and we'll see a lot of that at CES.

    • Samsung's AI-enabled fridges identify items and suggest recipesSamsung's AI fridges can identify items and suggest recipes based on contents, offering convenience and entertainment, but with limitations and potential disputes.

      Samsung is leading the charge in integrating AI technology into household appliances, specifically fridges, with innovative features like identifying items and suggesting recipes based on their contents. However, the technology is not perfect, with limitations such as recognizing only 33 different items and the potential for family disputes over TikTok accounts. Despite these limitations, the convenience of accessing entertainment directly from appliances is a significant draw. Samsung's approach sets it apart from competitors, who may be copying smart platform designs without offering unique features. Overall, the integration of AI into household appliances represents a step towards more connected and efficient homes.

    • AI and automatic content recognition for optimized settingsTV manufacturers use AI and content recognition to adjust settings for improved viewing experience, recognizing genres and titles for optimal picture and sound settings. Mini LED technology and higher-end OLED technology are also advancements for more convenient and enjoyable TV viewing.

      TV manufacturers are increasingly using AI and automatic content recognition to enhance the viewing experience by adjusting settings based on the content being watched. This includes recognizing specific genres or even individual titles, and optimizing picture and sound settings accordingly. Additionally, mini LED technology is gaining popularity, with companies like Roku and LG announcing new models. Sony, on the other hand, is taking a different approach by focusing on higher-end OLED technology, including larger sizes and multiple lens array technology. Overall, these advancements aim to make TV viewing more convenient and enjoyable for consumers.

    • The mini LED moment is hereMini LEDs are gaining popularity with advanced backlights and becoming more affordable, soon surpassing OLEDs in the high-end TV market.

      The world of TV technology is constantly evolving, with OLED and mini LED displays being the current frontrunners. OLEDs have long been considered the gold standard for high-end TVs, but mini LEDs are gaining ground due to their advanced backlights, which are becoming more sophisticated and affordable. The speaker mentioned his personal experience of testing out the latest models from Sony and was impressed by the mini LED's performance. He believes that mini LEDs will soon surpass OLEDs in popularity and affordability. Additionally, the discussion touched upon the importance of displays in determining the overall quality of devices, as they often set the limit for what's possible. Keeping an eye on the latest display technology trends can help us anticipate what's coming in the future. The mini LED moment is here, and it's worth paying attention to.

    • Exploring new ways to enhance user experiences with TVs and upcoming techApple's Vision Pro could feature external display functionality with features like 'Do Not Disturb' notifications, weather displays, and video play buttons, aiming to make technology more integrated and convenient.

      Technology continues to evolve, and companies are exploring new ways to enhance user experiences. During a recent discussion, the topic of TVs and upcoming tech, such as Apple's Vision Pro, was brought up. The speaker shared his experience with a less-than-impressive Sony TV and his excitement for the potential of external displays on devices like the Vision Pro. Apple, for instance, has been granted a patent for external screen functionality on their upcoming headset, which could include features like "Do Not Disturb" notifications, weather displays, and video play buttons. This innovation echoes earlier days of tech development, where companies experimented with wacky features to push boundaries and create unique user experiences. Ultimately, these advancements aim to make technology more integrated into our daily lives and provide added convenience and functionality.

    • Apple's Vision Pro: Making Wearable Tech CoolApple's Vision Pro pushes boundaries with wearable tech, aiming to make screens on faces culturally desirable, while Amazon introduces ads to its streaming platform.

      Apple is pushing the boundaries of technology with its Vision Pro, aiming to make a screen on your face a culturally cool thing, despite the challenges of hiding its true nature. The patent for the device includes a wearable electronic device with a camera and display, but Apple's actual claims are small. The technology world is eagerly anticipating its release, with rumors of an announcement at CES 2023. Amazon, on the other hand, is introducing ads to its streaming platform, a move that was inevitable given the industry trends. The impact of these developments on consumers and the tech industry remains to be seen. Apple's pursuit of making the Vision Pro a desirable gadget despite its unusual appearance is a fascinating example of how technology companies are constantly trying to redefine the norms and make the once unusual, cool.

    • Digital disruptions in the entertainment industryCompanies must invest in upgrading equipment and maintaining systems to ensure a seamless user experience amidst the industry's shift towards digital projection and streaming

      The entertainment industry is increasingly relying on digital platforms and high-tech equipment, but the old systems are proving to be brittle and prone to failure. This was evident in the case of Alamo Draft House, which experienced a certificate timeout issue with their digital cinema projectors, leading to the halt of movie screenings. The industry's move towards digital projection and streaming is making the process more complex and controlled, but the reliance on these systems can result in significant disruptions. Amazon, a major player in the entertainment industry, is also entering the ads business, which some viewers find intrusive and against the original promise of Prime. The takeaway is that as technology advances, it's crucial for companies to invest in upgrading their equipment and maintaining their systems to ensure a seamless and uninterrupted user experience.

    • Friend's failed attempt to steal Austin Powers 2 film reelsThinking through actions before executing them is crucial to avoid unwanted consequences. Companies can adapt and address modern challenges through innovative solutions.

      Even with good intentions, making hasty decisions without a clear plan can lead to unwanted consequences. This was evident in a high school friend's failed attempt to steal Austin Powers 2 film reels from a movie theater. The incident left a lasting impression on the speaker, demonstrating the importance of thinking through actions before executing them. Additionally, companies are responding to current issues in innovative ways. For instance, Kia is addressing the problem of easy-to-steal cars by implementing software updates, steering wheel locks, and ignition column protectors. The company even went as far as creating a sticker to deter thieves, acknowledging the issue and taking steps to prevent it. These stories serve as reminders of the importance of being aware of our surroundings and the potential consequences of our actions, as well as the ability of companies to adapt and address modern challenges.

    • Exploring the Transformation of a Local Art Show into a Cultural SensationThe Art Beets and Lyrics documentary showcases the journey of its founders and curator, Atlanta's influence, and the growth of a small art show into a cultural phenomenon, with Jack Daniels and Pendo's support.

      The Art Beets and Lyrics documentary on Hulu, presented by Jack Daniels and Pendo, highlights the journey of a small art show in Atlanta that has transformed into a cultural sensation. The film introduces the backgrounds of its founder, Chabari Graham, and curator, Dwayne W. Wright, and how Atlanta influenced their personal stories and roles within the event. The documentary follows Jabbar, W, and several artists as they prepare for Art Beets and Lyrics' 20th anniversary tour, attracting thousands of fans at each show. Jack Daniels and Pendo sponsor the documentary, with Jack Daniels providing a whiskey specialty and Pendo improving digital experiences for users through product analytics and in-app guides. Whether creating applications for customers or managing them for employees, Pendo can help deliver better digital experiences. To learn more about Pendo's certification courses and how your team can start building better digital experiences, visit pendo.io/podcast.

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    Today on the flagship podcast of what the future of Kindle turns out to be:  We’re once again trying out a couple of our favorite new show formats.  In Version History, we talk through the whole story of Quibi, from its early days as NewTV to its extremely ill-timed launch to its ultimate demise.  From Variety: Quibi Has Raised $1.75B After Closing $750M Round to Fund Launch From Variety: Jeffrey Katzenberg’s NewTV Closes $1B, Major Studios Among Investors Quibi’s CES 2020 launch Quibi app review: short-form streaming in a shifting landscape Steven Spielberg is writing a horror series you’ll only be able to at night Quibi’s Super Bowl 2020 commercial From The Wall Street Journal: Jeffrey Katzenberg and Meg Whitman Struggle With Their Startup—and Each Other How Quibi imploded less than six months after launch 11 reasons why Quibi crashed and burned in less than a year Next, we try out our as-yet-untitled debate show. The Verge’s Kevin Nguyen and Alex Cranz take on a surprisingly contentious topic: is the future of books print or digital?  The Boox Palma is an amazing gadget I didn’t even know I wanted Kobo’s great color e-readers are held back by lock-in From The Wall Street Journal: How the Kindle Became a Must-Have Accessory (Again) The Playdate makes a surprisingly good e-reader Later, producer Andru Marino answers a question from The Vergecast Hotline about a very unusual shopping situation for MP3 players.  NW-E394 Walkman Digital Music Player  Mighty’s ‘iPod shuffle for Spotify’ gets upgraded battery and Bluetooth Email us at vergecast@theverge.com or call us at 866-VERGE11, we love hearing from you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
    The Vergecast
    enAugust 06, 2024

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