Good morning! It is November 19, 2024, today. We have an exciting lineup of AI news, from the US DOJ's case for Google to sell Chrome to Mistral's new AI search and D-Matrix's cutting-edge AI chip. Let's dive into the latest updates!

1. US Justice Department Targets Google’s Chrome in Monopoly Case

The U.S. Department of Justice (DoJ) plans to ask a judge to force Google to sell its Chrome browser as part of a broader effort to curb its internet search monopoly. Proposed measures may also include addressing Google’s dominance in AI and Android systems. This follows a ruling that Google violated antitrust laws, controlling 90% of the global search market. Google plans to challenge the DoJ, calling the measures government “overreach” harmful to consumers and innovation. Remedies are due by December 20.

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2. Mistral Enhances AI Tool le Chat with Web Search and Advanced Features

Mistral is upgrading its AI assistant le Chat, introducing web search with citations, a Canvas interface for content creation, and tools to analyze complex PDFs and images. It also offers automation features like receipt scanning. Powered by Black Forest Labs for image generation, the updates will launch as free betas, with premium tiers planned. Mistral previously raised €600M and collaborates with BNP Paribas and Nvidia.

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3. Silicon Valley Startup d-Matrix Begins Shipping AI Chips for Chatbots and Video Generation

Silicon Valley-based d-Matrix announced it is shipping its first AI chips tailored for services like chatbots and video generators. The startup, which has secured over $160 million in funding including investments from Microsoft's venture arm, is currently distributing sample chips to early customers with full-scale shipments expected next year. Partnering with Super Micro Computer, d-Matrix’s chips are designed to handle high volumes of user requests during AI inference, complementing Nvidia’s training-focused GPUs.

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4. Google Pledges $22M to Fund AI-Driven Scientific Breakthroughs

Google has announced a $20 million funding initiative, alongside $2 million in cloud credits, to support scientists and researchers using AI to tackle complex problems in fields like biology, sustainability, and materials science. Administered by Google org, the funding targets academic and non-profit institutions and aims to drive significant breakthroughs rather than spreading small grants. By fostering collaboration with top innovators, Google aligns itself for future AI opportunities while inspiring public-private sector partnerships. The fund will distribute to around 15 organizations by 2026.

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5. Are Virtual Avatars Redefining Digital Interaction?

Meta and TikTok's Douyin are advancing virtual avatars, blending AI and social media. Douyin’s “V Project” creates creator-like avatars that interact 24/7, mimicking personality and offering insights. Similarly, Meta’s AI-driven avatars, unveiled at Meta Connect 2024, enable creators to engage based on prior activity. Douyin's lead in leveraging avatars for live-streaming and e-commerce highlights their potential, as virtual influencers gain traction globally. The trend signals a shift in digital interaction, prioritizing AI-powered engagement.

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6. Indian News Agency Sues OpenAI Over Copyright, AI-Generated “Fake News”

Asian News International (ANI) has sued OpenAI, claiming its copyrighted content was used without permission to train AI models, leading to false attributions like fabricated interviews. OpenAI denies wrongdoing, citing data opt-out options and jurisdictional limits. The Delhi High Court will appoint an expert to assess copyright issues related to AI and ANI's claims of reputational harm. The case, India’s first of its kind, highlights growing global concerns over AI companies' use of copyrighted material.

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Stay tuned for more updates, and have a fantastic day!

Best,

Zephyr