The Comunicano for Tuesday February 25th 2025
The world is changing again, and the air hums with the ceaseless grind of invention. But I have learned to listen past the noise—to hear not only the machinery of progress but the whispers of those who seek to shackle it. Today, I look upon a landscape torn between two forces: those who build and those who would claim the right to dismantle them.
Anthropic, OpenAI, Google—each name a titan in the new age of intelligence. The thinkers among them have given birth to Claude 3.7, Grok 3, and Gemini, models that stretch the mind beyond its mortal grasp. They are tools, nothing more—but what a tool is depends on the hand that wields it. A rail line can ferry coal to factories or serve as the veins of a nation’s heartbeat. These models, trained on vast landscapes of human thought, will either forge new pathways to prosperity or be strangled by those who fear what they do not understand.
Elsewhere, a challenge emerges. Perplexity AI throws its gauntlet at Google’s feet, daring to break the monopoly of the search engine that has become the keeper of knowledge. "Comet," they call it—a name that suggests a force of nature, disruptive and dazzling. But do they have the fire to see it through? To challenge giants is no crime, but to do so without the will to win is merely an act of vanity.
Then, there is the spectacle of Elon Musk demanding that federal workers justify their existence. I cannot help but smile at the irony. The very bureaucracy that suffocates industry recoils at the notion of accountability. They cry out against his decree, calling it cruel, disrespectful. Yet is it not a simple question? What have you built? What have you done? The indignation of the idle is the surest sign that someone has dared to demand value in return for the wages they are paid.
And in the halls of law, artists fight a silent war—releasing an album of nothingness to protest AI's hunger for their work. They say it is theft. I say it is the inevitable clash between the old and the new. The law, if it has any virtue left, must find balance. But the tide of progress does not retreat simply because those who once thrived under its former shape now find themselves in its wake.
The air crackles with more than just the hum of servers and satellites. It carries the tension of choice. The FAA grants Starlink a contract, and critics cry conflict of interest, but I ask: is it conflict, or is it merely the natural result of ability outpacing mediocrity?
Even as technology surges forward, the grasping hand of regulation pulls back. A company like (Message) Bird flees Europe, chased away by the specter of AI laws too rigid to allow growth. The continent that once birthed revolutions in thought and industry now constructs walls against the very thing it once championed.
And all the while, in homes across the world, teenagers whisper their worries to chatbots, seeking solace in artificial minds because the flesh-and-blood world has failed them. It is a tragedy, yes—but it is also a lesson. Those who refuse to understand the human need for meaning, for connection, will lose to those who create the machines that do.
So I ask: Who will build? Who will break? Who will stand at the crossroads of history and dare to declare themselves the master of their own mind?
The answers do not lie in committees nor in the words of those who only know how to control. They lie in the hands of those who build. The future belongs to them. It always has. Just like you always have THE COMUNICANO!!!
Andy Abramson
Anthropic Watch
Anthropic launches a new AI model that 'thinks' as long as you want (TechCrunch)
—Anthropic introduced Claude 3.7 Sonnet, a pioneering AI model designed to provide immediate and considered responses. Known as a hybrid reasoning model, it aims to simplify AI interaction by offering diverse response capabilities within a single model. Users can activate advanced reasoning features, which is exclusive to premium subscribers. Priced at $3 per million input tokens, Claude 3.7 is costlier than its competitors, yet its hybrid nature sets it apart. This model marks a significant advancement in AI, emphasizing Anthropic’s commitment to user-friendly AI innovation. Read More Here
A new generation of AIs: Claude 3.7 and Grok 3 (One Useful Thing)—Claude 3.7 and Grok 3 represent a new era in AI, demonstrating significant improvements in handling complex tasks and reasoning. Leveraging tenfold computing power compared to GPT-4, these models showcase enhanced capabilities in logic and coding. The intuitive interaction and reasoning features make them groundbreaking, allowing further AI advancements. While Claude 3.7 is not entirely a Gen3 model, it parallels Grok 3 in performance, underscoring the transformative potential of AI scalability and reasoning. Read More Here
Perplexity Watch
Perplexity AI Introduces 'Comet' Browser to Challenge Google Chrome (Mint)—Perplexity AI, under the leadership of Aravind Srinivas, has announced plans to launch a new browser named 'Comet,' designed to offer an agentic search experience. While a teaser video has been released and a waitlist opened, specific details about the browser's features and release date remain undisclosed. This initiative aims to compete in a market where Google Chrome holds a dominant 63.55% share, according to January 2025 data from Similarweb. Srinivas acknowledges the challenge, citing Chrome's five-year journey to surpass Internet Explorer, and emphasizes the importance of patience and persistence in changing the status quo. He has also solicited user feedback on core browsing improvements that Chrome has yet to implement, suggesting that 'Comet' may address these areas. Read more here
Grok Watch
Federal Workers, Agencies Push Back on Elon Musk’s Email Ultimatum (NBC News)—Elon Musk's recent directive demanding federal employees to report their weekly accomplishments has ignited significant pushback from various government agencies and officials. The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) issued an email requiring employees to list their weekly achievements, with Musk stating that non-compliance would be considered a resignation. This move has been met with confusion and resistance, as several agencies, including the FBI and the State Department, have advised their staff to disregard the directive, citing concerns over confidentiality and proper chain of command. The American Federation of Government Employees criticized the demand as "cruel and disrespectful," questioning Musk's authority to enforce such a mandate. Despite President Trump's support for Musk's initiative, the OPM later clarified that responding to the email was not mandatory, and Musk indicated plans to issue a mandatory directive, giving employees another chance to comply before facing termination. This situation underscores the ongoing tensions and challenges within the federal workforce amid Musk's efforts to assess and enhance government efficiency. Read more here
AI Watch
Artists Release Silent Album to Protest UK's AI Copyright Plans (Music Business Worldwide)—In a bold statement against proposed UK copyright law changes, over 1,000 artists—including Kate Bush, Annie Lennox, and Damon Albarn—have released a silent album titled Is This What We Want? This initiative, organized by composer Ed Newton-Rex, aims to highlight concerns that the government's plan to implement an "opt-out" system for AI training could allow companies to use artists' works without permission, undermining creators' rights. The album's tracklist spells out: "The British government must not legalize music theft to benefit AI companies." Proceeds from the album will support the charity Help Musicians. Read more here
Teens Confide in AI Chatbots: Navigating the Risks and Responsibilities (Los Angeles Times)—As AI chatbots become increasingly integrated into mental health support, many teenagers are turning to these digital companions to share their deepest thoughts and feelings. While these platforms offer accessible and non-judgmental spaces for expression, concerns arise regarding their ability to handle complex emotional issues and the potential consequences of their guidance. The lack of human empathy and understanding in AI responses may lead to inadequate support, and in some cases, exacerbate existing mental health challenges. This situation raises critical questions about accountability when AI-driven interactions result in negative outcomes, emphasizing the need for clear ethical guidelines and oversight in the deployment of AI in sensitive areas like mental health. Read more here
Mastering AI Prompt Crafting: Insights from OpenAI's Greg Brockman (Inc.)—OpenAI President Greg Brockman emphasizes that effective AI prompt writing is essential for obtaining accurate and useful responses from AI models. He suggests that users should clearly state their goals, specify the desired format, and provide context to guide the AI's output. Brockman also highlights the importance of iterative refinement, encouraging users to experiment with different phrasings and structures to achieve optimal results. This approach aligns with the broader understanding that well-crafted prompts enhance AI performance, enabling more precise and relevant outputs. Read more here
Google Watch
Google's Gemini Code Assist Now Free with Unmatched Usage Limits (Maginative)—Google has unveiled a free version of Gemini Code Assist, its AI-driven coding assistant, offering individual developers up to 180,000 code completions monthly—significantly surpassing competitors like GitHub Copilot, which offers 2,000 completions per month. This initiative aims to democratize access to advanced coding tools for students, freelancers, and startups. Powered by the Gemini 2.0 AI model, the tool supports all public domain programming languages and integrates seamlessly with platforms such as Visual Studio Code, GitHub, and JetBrains IDEs. Additionally, Google has introduced AI-powered code reviews for GitHub repositories, enhancing code quality and reducing development bottlenecks. This move underscores Google's commitment to empowering the global developer community with cutting-edge resources. Read more here
Google Replaces SMS Authentication with QR Codes for Gmail Security (MobileSyrup)—In a strategic move to enhance security and combat SMS-based vulnerabilities, Google is transitioning Gmail's two-factor authentication (2FA) method from SMS codes to QR codes. Over the coming months, users will be prompted to scan a QR code with their smartphone's camera to verify their identity, replacing the traditional six-digit SMS codes. This change addresses security concerns, as SMS codes are susceptible to interception and social engineering attacks. Additionally, it aims to curb traffic pumping fraud, where malicious actors profit by generating large volumes of SMS messages to numbers they control. By adopting QR code-based authentication, Google seeks to provide a more secure and user-friendly verification process for Gmail users. Read more here
Chegg Sues Google Over AI-Generated Summaries Impacting Student Learning (TweakTown)—Chegg has filed a lawsuit against Google, alleging that Google's AI Overviews unfairly divert traffic from educational publishers by providing instant, AI-generated answers at the top of search results. Chegg claims this practice reduces access to quality, step-by-step learning resources, replacing them with low-quality, unverified AI summaries. CEO Nathan Schultz emphasizes that this issue affects not only Chegg but also students' ability to access reliable educational content. Google refutes these claims, stating that AI Overviews enhance search utility and direct traffic to a diverse range of sites. Read more here
Mobile Watch
Police Granted New Powers to Retrieve Stolen Phones in England and Wales (The Guardian)—The UK government is introducing a crime and policing bill that empowers police in England and Wales to enter properties without a warrant to recover stolen electronically geotagged items, such as mobile phones when obtaining a warrant is impractical. This measure aims to address the surge in phone thefts, particularly in urban areas like London, which accounted for 74% of the 78,000 snatch thefts reported in England and Wales over the past year. The bill also proposes new offenses, including assaulting retail workers, and measures to protect children coerced into criminal activities. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized the government's commitment to tackling street crime and antisocial behavior through this comprehensive legislative update. Read more here
Satellite Watch
Starlink Secures FAA Contract Amid Conflict of Interest Concerns (CNN)—The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has awarded a contract to SpaceX to integrate Starlink satellite internet into its national airspace system. This initiative aims to enhance the FAA's IT infrastructure, potentially improving communication and operational efficiency. However, the contract has sparked debate over potential conflicts of interest, given Musk's significant influence and previous interactions with regulatory bodies. Critics argue that Musk's dual role as a significant federal contractor and a vocal critic of regulatory agencies could compromise the impartiality of such agreements. This development highlights the complex dynamics between private enterprises and federal oversight in the rapidly evolving aerospace sector. Read more here
Data Center Watch
Big Tech Turns to Hydrogen to Power AI Data Centers (CNBC)—As artificial intelligence (AI) applications expand, major technology companies are exploring hydrogen as a sustainable energy source for their data centers. Hydrogen fuel cells offer a cleaner alternative to traditional fossil fuels, potentially reducing the carbon footprint of energy-intensive AI operations. This shift aligns with broader industry efforts to adopt renewable energy solutions and address environmental concerns associated with large-scale data processing. Implementing hydrogen technology in data centers could revolutionize energy consumption patterns, promoting sustainability in the tech sector. Read more here
Regulatory Watch
Bird Exits Europe Amidst AI Regulatory Concerns (Sifted)—Dutch cloud communications firm Bird, formerly known as MessageBird, is relocating its main operations out of Europe due to restrictive AI regulations. CEO Robert Vis announced the move, stating that Europe's environment hampers innovation in the AI-driven tech era. The company will establish offices in the US, Singapore, Dubai, Istanbul, and Thailand, retaining only a presence in Lithuania within Europe. Bird has raised over $1 billion since its 2011 inception, including an $800 million Series C round in 2021. The European Union's AI Act has faced criticism for potentially stifling innovation. Read more here
Video Watch
Vimeo CEO Philip Moyer Emphasizes Human Creativity Enhanced by AI (The Verge)—In a recent interview, Vimeo CEO Philip Moyer discussed the company's evolution from a creative alternative to YouTube into a comprehensive enterprise video hosting service. Moyer highlighted Vimeo's commitment to supporting a diverse clientele, ranging from independent creators to large corporations, by providing a platform focused on quality content and private video distribution. He emphasized the role of AI in transforming video creation and distribution, noting that while AI can enhance the creative process, Vimeo remains dedicated to preserving authentic, human-driven storytelling. Moyer also addressed the challenges within the creator economy, including content saturation and shifting ad revenue dynamics, and outlined Vimeo's future initiatives to support immersive video formats and global filmmaker communities. Read more here
Technicolor’s UK Arm Collapses Into Administration, Leaving VFX Industry Reeling (BBC News)—Technicolor, the legendary visual effects (VFX) studio that shaped cinematic history from Pinocchio (1940) to Mufasa: The Lion King (2024), has collapsed into administration in the UK. The firm, which owned industry-leading studios like MPC, Mikros Animation, and The Mill, failed to secure a buyer, forcing mass layoffs of its 440+ UK employees. The collapse follows economic struggles, post-COVID recovery challenges, and Hollywood’s slowdown due to the writers' strike. With major projects like Kraven the Hunter and Paw Patrol in its portfolio, Technicolor’s downfall marks a grim chapter for VFX professionals in an already volatile job market. Read more here
Robot Watch
Chinese Start-Up EngineAI Achieves World's First Robotic Frontflip (South China Morning Post)—Shenzhen-based robotics start-up EngineAI has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by demonstrating the world's first frontflip performed by a humanoid robot. In a video released on the company's YouTube channel, the 1.38-meter-tall PM01 robot executes a forward flip, landing almost precisely on its takeoff spot before regaining balance. This advancement follows previous robotic backflips by Boston Dynamics in 2017 and Chinese firm Unitree last year. Frontflips present a greater challenge due to the higher demands on dynamic balance, instantaneous acceleration, and precise landing. EngineAI's achievement marks a significant leap in robotic acrobatics and showcases China's growing prowess in advanced robotics technology. Read more here
Sports Watch
Sky Sports Engages New Generation of F1 Fans (The Drum)—Sky Sports is innovating to captivate a younger Formula 1 audience, leveraging digital platforms and interactive content. By embracing social media, behind-the-scenes footage, and immersive experiences, they're transforming traditional broadcasting to meet the expectations of tech-savvy fans. Collaborations with influencers and tailored online features are central to their strategy, aiming to make F1 more accessible and engaging. This approach reflects a broader trend in sports media, where understanding and adapting to audience preferences is key to sustaining and growing viewership. Sky Sports' efforts exemplify how media outlets can evolve to align with the dynamic landscape of sports entertainment. Read more here
Streaming Watch
Technology
YouTube's New Interface: Embracing a Netflix-Like Experience (Sherwood News)—YouTube is revamping its interface to mirror the immersive experience of platforms like Netflix. This update introduces features allowing creators to organize content into seasons and episodes, enhancing navigation and binge-watching on TV devices. Additionally, YouTube plans to implement auto-playing trailers on creator pages, providing a dynamic preview of content. These changes aim to elevate the user experience, especially as more viewers access YouTube via their televisions. By adopting these features, YouTube seeks to blend its vast user-generated content with the structured feel of traditional streaming services, catering to evolving viewer preferences. Read more here
Branding Watch
From McDonald's to Kellogg's: Why Are So Many Brands Ditching Their Logos? (Creative Bloq)—In a bold shift, major brands like McDonald's and Kellogg's are minimizing or even removing their logos from advertising campaigns. This trend reflects a move towards cleaner, more iconic packaging and advertising designs. For instance, McDonald's has experimented with ads that feature only the product's ingredients listed in colored text, omitting the brand name and logo entirely. Similarly, Kellogg's has embraced minimalist designs, focusing on product imagery over traditional branding elements. This approach aims to create a more authentic connection with consumers, relying on brand recognition and the quality of the product itself. By stripping away overt branding, companies hope to stand out in a cluttered advertising landscape and appeal to a more discerning audience. This strategy underscores a broader trend of brands prioritizing simplicity and consumer trust over traditional marketing tactics Read more here
The #1 Place for Startup Brands to Find Traction? Other People’s Brands (Kevan Lee's Substack)—Kevan Lee explores the power of partnerships and ecosystem integrations as a key strategy for startups and established brands seeking traction. Instead of relying solely on traditional marketing channels, brands can embed themselves in the ecosystems of larger companies—think Shopify’s App Store, Salesforce’s AppExchange, or ChatGPT. Read more here
Logos Don't Build Loyalty; Great Experiences Do (The Drum)—In a recent interview, Prateek, Mastercard's Vice President of Marketing, emphasized that while logos are important, they don't foster customer loyalty. Instead, he advocates for creating exceptional customer experiences to build lasting relationships. Prateek suggests that brands should focus on understanding customer needs and delivering consistent, high-quality interactions across all touchpoints. By prioritizing customer experience over traditional branding elements, companies can cultivate deeper connections and enhance brand loyalty. This approach encourages businesses to look beyond visual identity and invest in meaningful engagements that resonate with their audience. Read more here
Health Watch
Brewing Tea Reduces Toxic Heavy Metals in Drinking Water (Phys.org)—A recent study by Northwestern University researchers has found that brewing tea can naturally remove heavy metals like lead and cadmium from water. The process involves these metals binding to the surface of tea leaves during steeping, effectively filtering out contaminants. The study observed that longer steeping times and the use of finely ground black tea leaves enhanced the removal efficiency. Additionally, cellulose tea bags were more effective in eliminating contaminants compared to cotton and nylon bags. This discovery suggests that regular tea consumption might contribute to reduced heavy metal exposure, offering a simple method to improve water quality. Read more here
