Today marks a pivotal moment in the arc of innovation, a crossroad where opportunity and responsibility intersect. Google has rolled out free AI features for all Workspace users—a gesture that seems generous but comes bundled with a price hike for standard plans. And with that, it seems The Associated Press has teamed up with Google’s Gemini AI to integrate real-time news. Meanwhile, the Vatican is drafting ethics for artificial intelligence. If you step back, you’ll see the threads of a rapidly evolving story.
This isn’t just another upgrade to your inbox or a tweak to spreadsheets. This is about the new fabric of human progress—a weaving of tools into the tapestry of daily life that empowers people to dream, to build, and, yes, to disrupt. But let’s not be naive. Every innovation demands scrutiny. Sure, we’re unlocking efficiencies—an AI assistant to summarize emails, take meeting notes, or even chat news into your coffee break. Yet, as AI becomes a colleague, a creator, and even a confidant, it asks us to consider questions we’ve never faced before.
First, the economic reality: For small businesses, every dollar counts. Price increases—even slight ones—can be the difference between adoption and rejection. We must ensure AI doesn't widen the digital divide but closes it. Democratizing technology is a noble goal; profiteering on access is not.
Second, let’s address ethics. AI chatbots are becoming virtual companions, and as emotionally enriching as that might seem, it’s also risky. Do we want a future where our emotional bandwidth is outsourced to silicon and algorithms? Or do we want systems that assist but don’t manipulate, that empower without enslaving?
Finally, we can’t talk AI without talking about jobs. Legislation like New York’s AI-driven layoff disclosure law is a start, but we need more than Band-Aids. We need strategies. If AI automates the mundane, let's reinvest in upskilling for roles where creativity, empathy, and leadership thrive.
The future isn’t written. It’s designed—by us, with tools like AI acting as our chisels. But it must be built on principles as solid as the innovation itself: accessibility, transparency, and ethical integrity. We owe it to ourselves to get this right—not for the machines but for the humans they serve.
And so, I’ll leave you with this: Let AI be the catalyst, not the conqueror. The guide, not the gatekeeper. The partner, not the puppeteer.
Let’s build wisely. And let’s all keep reading, THE COMUNICANO!!!
Andy Abramson
TikTok Watch
Biden Administration Seeks Solutions to Keep TikTok Operational Amid Imminent Ban (NBC News)—As a federal ban on TikTok looms, set to take effect on January 19, 2025, the Biden administration is exploring various options to maintain the app's availability in the United States. This development follows a law requiring TikTok's parent company, ByteDance, to divest the platform by the deadline or face a nationwide ban. The administration's efforts aim to address national security concerns while preserving the app's accessibility for its approximately 150 million U.S. users. The White House and TikTok U.S. have not yet commented on the situation.
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Trump Administration Considers Measures to Preserve TikTok in the U.S. (The Hill)—President-elect Donald Trump is exploring options to "preserve" TikTok, according to his chosen national security adviser, Florida Rep. Mike Waltz. This consideration arises amid the potential enforcement of a federal law that could ban TikTok nationwide, pending a Supreme Court ruling. The law mandates ByteDance, TikTok's parent company, to divest the app on national security grounds. The incoming administration, which utilized TikTok during the 2024 presidential campaign to engage with younger voters, is interested in protecting user data while maintaining the platform's accessibility.
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TikTok Prepares for U.S. Shutdown Amid Legal Uncertainty (Reuters)—TikTok is set to cease its U.S. operations on Sunday, January 19, 2025, affecting 170 million American users, due to a federal mandate requiring its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to divest the app over national security concerns. The Supreme Court is deliberating on the law's enforcement, and President-elect Donald Trump has indicated he may issue an executive order to delay the ban by 60 to 90 days. In the interim, TikTok plans to inform users of the impending shutdown and provide options to download their data.
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Exploring Alternatives Amid TikTok's Uncertain Future (Mashable)—With potential bans looming over TikTok in the U.S., creators and users are exploring alternative platforms to continue their content creation and community engagement. Platforms like Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, and emerging apps such as Neptune and Bluesky's upcoming 'Flashes' are gaining attention. Each offers unique features and monetization opportunities, prompting creators to diversify their online presence.
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Douyin Cracks Down on Fake Foreign Accounts Amid Influx of TikTok Users (South China Morning Post)—Douyin, China's counterpart to TikTok, is intensifying efforts to eliminate fake foreign accounts as it experiences a surge of new users migrating from TikTok. The platform has implemented stricter verification processes to ensure account authenticity and maintain content integrity. This move aligns with China's broader initiative to regulate online spaces and combat misinformation.
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Inauguration Watch
Tech Leaders to Attend Trump's Inauguration (Reuters)—Prominent tech executives, including Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai, Apple's Tim Cook, Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Mark Zuckerberg, will attend President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration on January 20. Their presence signals a potential shift towards collaboration between the tech industry and the incoming administration, which has previously expressed critical views on Big Tech's influence and practices.
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TikTok CEO Invited to Trump's Inauguration (The New York Times)—Shou Zi Chew, CEO of TikTok, plans to attend President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration after receiving an invitation to sit in a position of honor on the dais, a spot typically reserved for former presidents, family members, and distinguished guests. This invitation comes amid ongoing discussions about TikTok's operations in the U.S. and its efforts to address national security concerns.
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Google CEO to Attend Inauguration (Politico)—Google CEO Sundar Pichai is among the tech leaders planning to attend President-elect Donald Trump's inauguration. His attendance underscores the tech industry's intent to engage with the new administration, despite previous tensions over regulatory and policy issues.
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Canada Watch
Canada Braces for Tariff Battle with U.S. Amid Looming Trade Dispute (BBC News)—Canadian leaders are uniting against the looming threat of 25% tariffs on Canadian goods proposed by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau declared "nothing is off the table," as Canada prepares countermeasures, including potential energy export restrictions and additional border security funding. However, divisions emerged, with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith opposing energy export tariffs. Experts warn these measures could devastate Canada’s economy, which relies heavily on U.S. trade, with potential GDP losses of up to 5.6%. Trudeau emphasized a robust and strategic response while preparing for his upcoming resignation and Canada's impending federal election.
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Gemini Watch
Google Workspace Integrates AI Features, Implements Price Increase (9to5Google)
Google has announced that all AI features in its Workspace suite, including Gmail, Docs, Sheets, and Meet, will now be available for free. Previously, these AI capabilities required an additional $20 per user per month through the Gemini Business plan. Concurrently, the cost of standard Workspace plans is increasing by approximately $2 per user per month, with base subscription prices rising from $12 to $14 monthly. The AI features include email summaries in Gmail, automated spreadsheet and video designs, an automated note-taker for meetings, and the NotebookLM research assistant. Google aims to integrate AI deeply across its services to remain competitive with rivals like Microsoft and OpenAI.
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Google Partners with AP for AI Chatbot News Integration (AP)—Google has agreed with The Associated Press (AP) to provide real-time news updates for its AI chatbot, Gemini. This marks Google's first collaboration with a news publisher to enhance its AI offerings, aiming to deliver accurate and timely news content through the chatbot. Financial details of the partnership have not been disclosed.
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AI Watch
AI Chatbots Become Virtual Companions, Raising Ethical Questions (NY Times)—AI chatbots like ChatGPT are becoming virtual companions for users, offering support, advice, and even companionship. As adoption grows, concerns arise regarding the ethical implications of forming emotional attachments to AI. Developers are working to ensure AI assistants foster healthy interactions, avoiding over-reliance or unrealistic expectations. These bots are also being used in therapeutic settings, prompting questions about the limits of AI in personal and professional life. The trend signifies how AI is reshaping human connections and mental health support, emphasizing the need for careful design and regulatory oversight.
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New York Employers May Need to Disclose AI-Driven Layoffs (Forbes)—New York State is considering legislation that would require businesses to disclose layoffs resulting from AI adoption. This move aims to address workforce impacts of AI and promote transparency in employment practices as AI technologies become more prevalent in various industries.
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Vatican City Enacts New Artificial Intelligence Law (National Catholic Register)—Vatican City has introduced a 13-page decree regulating AI applications, prohibiting those that create social inequalities, violate human dignity, or cause harm. The law also forbids AI uses that conflict with the mission of the pope or the integrity of the Catholic Church, emphasizing ethical considerations in AI deployment.
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Earth Species Project Uses AI to Decode Animal Communication (AP)—The Earth Species Project, a nonprofit research lab, is using advanced AI tools to interpret animal vocalizations. This could potentially revolutionize human understanding of animal communication. Collaborating with researchers at McGill University, the project focuses on species such as zebra finches and beluga whales to develop dictionaries that could aid in conservation efforts and reconnect humans with nature.
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USPTO Releases Comprehensive AI Strategy to Enhance Innovation and IP Protection (USPTO)—The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has unveiled its Artificial Intelligence Strategy, aiming to integrate AI technologies into its operations and the broader intellectual property (IP) ecosystem. This strategy focuses on promoting responsible AI innovation, ensuring the U.S. maintains its leadership in emerging technologies, and addressing novel IP challenges associated with AI advancements. Key initiatives include deploying AI systems to improve patent examination quality and efficiency, issuing guidance on AI-assisted inventions, and fostering collaboration with stakeholders across government, industry, and academia. The USPTO emphasizes the importance of AI in driving economic growth and solving complex societal challenges, while ensuring equitable access to AI-driven opportunities nationwide.
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B2B Watch
AI Should Eliminate 'Contact Me' Processes in 2025 (SaaStr)—The traditional "Contact Me" approach in B2B sales, which often involves delays and interactions with entry-level sales development representatives (SDRs), is due for an overhaul. Artificial intelligence has the potential to streamline this process by enabling immediate, value-driven responses to prospective customers, enhancing their experience and expediting sales cycles. By automating initial interactions, AI can eliminate the inefficiencies associated with manual lead qualification, allowing sales teams to focus on more complex tasks and improving overall customer satisfaction.
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LinkedIn Watch
LinkedIn Introduces Free AI Tools for Job Seekers and Recruiters (TechCrunch)—LinkedIn has launched new AI-driven features to enhance the job search and recruitment process. Job seekers can now utilize AI to generate personalized resumes and cover letters tailored to specific job postings, streamlining application efforts. Recruiters benefit from AI assistance in drafting job descriptions and identifying suitable candidates more efficiently. These tools aim to reduce administrative burdens, allowing users to focus on meaningful interactions and decision-making in their professional endeavors.
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Microsoft Watch
Microsoft Introduces Free AI Chat and Pay-As-You-Go Agents for Businesses (The Verge)—Microsoft has relaunched its free Copilot for businesses as Microsoft 365 Copilot Chat, an AI-driven service designed to prepare users for the full Microsoft 365 Copilot, priced at $30 per month. Powered by GPT, it includes AI agents capable of automating tasks and managing inboxes. Users can create and utilize agents via Copilot Studio, with pricing managed through pay-as-you-go or consumption packs. Agent usage costs vary based on response complexity, ranging from 1 cent for simple answers to 30 cents for accessing work data in the Microsoft Graph. This initiative aims to enhance productivity and encourage businesses to adopt the comprehensive Microsoft 365 Copilot subscription.
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Social Watch
Bluesky Introduces 'Flashes' as Instagram Alternative (Gizmodo)—Bluesky, the decentralized social media platform, is set to launch 'Flashes,' a new app designed for photo and video sharing, positioning it as an alternative to Instagram. Flashes will allow users to post up to four photos and minute-long videos, with content automatically appearing on their Bluesky accounts. The app aims to provide a decentralized option for users seeking alternatives to mainstream platforms.
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Meta Watch
Meta's Use of Pirated Data for AI Training Revealed (The Verge)—A copyright lawsuit against Meta has uncovered internal communications indicating the company's use company usedto develop its Llama open-source AI models. Executives discussed leveraging content from sites like Library Genesis, despite concrns over copyright infringement. This case raises significant ethical and legal questions about data sourcing in AI development.
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Porn Watch
GitHub's Struggle with Deepfake Porn Content Persists (Wired)—Despite implementing policies to ban projects facilitating nonconsensual explicit imagery, GitHub continues to host repositories linked to deepfake porn creation. A Wired investigation found over a dozen such programs evading detection, highlighting challenges in moderating open-source platforms. The persistence of these repositories underscores the difficulties in enforcing content policies effectively.
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Fintech Watch
Block Inc. Fined $80 Million for Anti-Money Laundering Violations (Reuters)—Block Inc., the parent company of Cash App, has agreed to pay an $80 million fine to 48 state financial regulators due to inadequate anti-money laundering (AML) controls. The settlement requires Block to hire an independent consultant to review its compliance with the Bank Secrecy Act and AML programs and to report any deficiencies to the states. A Block spokesperson stated that the issues pertained to a prior compliance program and that the company has since increased its investment in risk management. Cash App reported 56 million monthly users and $248 billion in inflows in 2023.
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Starbucks Watch
Starbucks Reverses Open-Door Policy, Purchase Now Required (CBS News)—Starbucks is ending its open-door policy, now requiring customers to make a purchase to stay in its cafes or use restrooms. This change, effective January 27, reverses the 2018 policy that allowed non-paying individuals to use facilities, introduced after the arrest of two Black men in Philadelphia. The new code of conduct also bans discrimination, harassment, outside alcohol, smoking, vaping, drug use, and panhandling. CEO Brian Niccol aims to reestablish Starbucks as a welcoming community coffeehouse, prioritizing paying customers and enhancing the in-store experience.
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