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🚀Baidu's New AI Model Beats DeepSeek and OpenAI

PLUS: Google's Gemini AI Removes Watermarks & iPhone 17 Air Pro Max Design Leaks and More!​

Author

Zephyr
March 17, 2025

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Good morning, this is Monday, March 17, 2025. We have some exciting AI news today, including Baidu's launch of the Ernie X1 AI model and reports of Google's Gemini AI model being used to remove watermarks from images.

1. Baidu Launches Ernie X1 AI Model, Challenging DeepSeek and OpenAI

Chinese tech giant Baidu has introduced two new AI models: Ernie X1 and an upgraded version of its flagship model, Ernie 4.5. The Ernie X1 model is designed to match the performance of DeepSeek's R1 but at half the cost, boasting superior capabilities in understanding, planning, reflection, and evolution. Baidu plans to make these models open-source by June 30, aiming to foster global collaboration and innovation in the AI community.

2. Google's Gemini AI Model Used to Remove Image Watermarks

Users have discovered that Google's new Gemini AI model can effectively remove watermarks from images, including those from stock photo agencies like Getty Images. This capability has raised concerns among creators and copyright holders, as it could potentially lead to unauthorized use of protected content. While Gemini 2.0 Flash's image generation feature is currently labeled as "experimental" and not intended for production use, its ability to remove watermarks has sparked ethical debates within the tech community.

3. Leaked iPhone 17 Air Dummies Suggest Slimmer, Port-Free Future

Recent leaks of iPhone 17 Air dummy models reveal a sleek, slim design that makes its predecessors look bulky. This new model could pave the way for a long-rumored port-free iPhone, featuring a 6.6-inch screen and a Dynamic Island cutout, blending high-end features with affordability.

4. Instagram Experiments with AI-Generated Comments on Posts

Instagram is experimenting with AI-generated comments, allowing users to respond to posts without crafting their own thoughts. The feature, spotted by app researcher Jonah Manzano, suggests pre-written comments tailored to the content. Meta is also developing AI chatbot profiles that can interact with users, potentially boosting engagement by flooding posts with bot-generated replies. While this might drive more activity, critics argue it makes social media less human and more artificial. Is this the future of online interaction, or just a step toward a less personal digital experience?

5. Hong Kong’s AI Job Market Booms with 2,000+ Openings

Hong Kong is experiencing a surge in demand for AI talent, with over 2,000 job openings as the city accelerates its push to become a tech hub. The Cyberport Career Fair will showcase opportunities from 580+ organizations, with 70% of recruiters seeking AI professionals. AI-related roles offer salaries up to 24% higher than non-AI jobs, and even candidates without formal AI training are encouraged to apply. The government is further boosting AI growth with a HK$1 billion investment in research and development, aiming to solidify Hong Kong’s position in the global AI race.

6. Google Assistant Phasing Out Seven Features

Google has announced that it will be discontinuing seven features across Android devices and Nest Hub/speakers. These include the ability to favorite, share, and ask where and when photos were taken using voice commands, change photo frame settings, use interpreter mode for live conversations, receive birthday reminder notifications as part of Routines, schedule or hear previously scheduled Family Bell announcements, get daily updates from the Assistant, and use Google Assistant on car accessories with Bluetooth or AUX connections. Users are encouraged to utilize alternative methods or apps to access similar functionalities.

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

Best,
Zephyr