The Comunicano for Wednesday January 22nd 2025

Ah, the ever-unfolding drama of technology! It’s as if every headline today is a new act in the play of progress, ambition, and ethics. Let’s take Apple, for instance—rolling out updates to help us opt out of its AI-driven systems. Think about that for a moment: the very company that pioneered putting "intelligence" into our hands is now championing our right to say, "No thanks." It's as if the conductor of a symphony pauses and offers the audience earplugs. A curious move, but a timely one. Trust, it seems, is the currency in this age of data scrutiny.

And speaking of trust, Google is weaving AI into education with tools that adapt, translate, and supposedly include. But let’s be honest—education has always been a battlefield for innovation. Chalkboards, iPads, now AI tutors. Yet, one has to wonder, are these tools genuinely empowering students or simply creating a digital dependency? The line between help and control gets blurrier by the day.

Then there’s OpenAI, upping its lobbying spend sevenfold. Sevenfold! If money talks, then they’re practically shouting on Capitol Hill. The message? AI needs rules, but rules we design. Governance of the machines, by the machines—or at least their makers. It’s democracy, Silicon Valley-style.

Meanwhile, Google teaming up with Israel’s military adds a weighty chapter to the AI defense saga. A partnership born of necessity, or an ethical rubicon crossed? That depends on whom you ask. Technology for security, they’ll say. Yet, history reminds us, tools for security often become tools for power.

Finally, there’s MrBeast eyeing TikTok. Yes, the king of viral stunts now wants to own the stage. It’s poetic, in a way. A creator wanting to own the platform, not just dance on it.

Today’s headlines are tomorrow’s history. The question is, who’s writing it—us, or our algorithms? Well, we’ll never know for sure, but one thing is for certain, you have THE COMUNICANO!!

Andy Abramson

AI Watch

Apple Expands Opt-Out Privacy for AI Systems in New Updates (Thurrott)

Apple has released macOS Sequoia 15.3, iOS 18.3, and iPadOS 18.3. These updates feature new privacy settings that allow users to opt out of Apple Intelligence, the company's AI-driven system. The updates also include improved bug fixes and user experience enhancements. Apple’s focus on privacy in AI comes as regulators scrutinize tech companies over data practices, making this a timely move to reinforce users' trust.
Read more here.

Google Showcases AI-Driven Learning Tools at Bett 2025 (Google Blog)—At Bett 2025, Google highlighted its latest education-focused tools powered by artificial intelligence. Key innovations include enhanced features in Google Classroom and adaptive learning systems designed to personalize educational experiences. The company also unveiled tools aimed at fostering inclusivity, such as improved language translation features and resources for educators. Google’s continued investment in AI-driven education underscores its commitment to equipping schools with cutting-edge technology. 
Read more here.

OpenAI Increases Lobbying Spend by Nearly Sevenfold in 2024 (MIT Technology Review)

OpenAI has significantly ramped up its lobbying efforts in Washington, increasing its budget from $365,000 in 2023 to over $2.5 million in 2024. This move underscores the company's focus on influencing policy and regulations surrounding artificial intelligence. OpenAI's lobbying priorities include AI safety, ethical use, and maintaining a competitive edge in the global AI race. With growing scrutiny of AI's societal impacts, OpenAI's strategy reflects its commitment to shaping the future of AI governance. Read more here.

AI Meets Defense: Google’s Partnership with Israel’s Military Unveiled (Jerusalem Post)—Google has been directly assisting the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Israel's Defense Ministry with access to its advanced artificial intelligence technologies. This collaboration includes expedited AI solutions tailored for military operations, sparking concerns over ethical implications and the growing intersection of big tech and defense. While proponents argue the partnership bolsters security, critics worry about potential misuse of AI in military applications.
Read more here.

Microsoft Ends Exclusive Cloud Partnership with OpenAI (TechCrunch)—Microsoft is no longer the exclusive cloud provider for OpenAI, signaling a shift in their collaborative dynamics. OpenAI now has the freedom to engage with other cloud providers, although Microsoft remains a significant partner. The move is expected to provide OpenAI with greater flexibility in expanding its AI services and partnerships globally. Analysts view this as a strategic decision benefiting both entities as the AI ecosystem continues to diversify.
Read more here.

VoIP Watch

Truecaller Enhances iPhone Experience with Advanced Spam Blocking and Caller ID Features (BetaNews)—Truecaller has updated its iOS app to provide iPhone users with robust spam-blocking and caller ID functionalities, aligning with features previously exclusive to Android. Leveraging Apple's Live Caller ID Lookup framework, the app ensures real-time caller identification while maintaining user privacy through advanced encryption. The update also introduces automatic spam blocking and an expanded call history search, allowing users to review up to 2,000 previously identified numbers. Additionally, Truecaller now offers a Premium Family plan, enabling up to four members to share premium benefits at a competitive price.
Read more here.

Meta Watch

Meta's Ambitious AR Roadmap: First True AR Headset Expected by 2027 (Engadget)—Meta is reportedly developing multiple smart glasses models, with plans to release its first true augmented reality (AR) headset, codenamed Artemis, as early as 2027. This initiative includes expanding the existing Ray-Ban partnership and introducing new models like Supernova 2 and Hypernova, which aim to enhance user experiences with features such as notifications and photo displays. Additionally, Meta is exploring AI-integrated wrist wearables and camera-enabled earbuds, signaling a comprehensive approach to AR and AI hardware development.
Read more here.

Streaming Watch

Netflix Announces Price Hike for Ad-Supported Plan Amid 2024 Strategy Shift (Variety)—Netflix plans to raise prices for its ad-supported tier, as part of its evolving business model in 2024. The streaming giant cites rising content costs and a commitment to enhancing user experience as the primary reasons. This move comes as Netflix continues expanding its advertising offerings, aiming to compete more aggressively in the ad-based streaming space. Despite the price hike, Netflix believes the value added through exclusive content and targeted ad services will sustain subscriber growth.
Read more here.

WorkPlace Watch

Remote Work Tensions Grow as Employers Demand Office Returns (AP News)—Companies are increasingly mandating employees to return to the office, leading to heightened tensions between workers and employers. While some argue the benefits of in-person collaboration, many workers resist, citing long commutes and increased flexibility in remote work arrangements. Surveys show a significant portion of the workforce views these mandates as unnecessary and disruptive to work-life balance. As debates persist, businesses are testing hybrid models to balance organizational needs with employee preferences.
Read more here.

TikTok Watch

MrBeast Eyes TikTok Purchase with Investor Group (Dexerto)—Famed YouTuber MrBeast, alongside an investor group, has made an official offer to buy TikTok. The move aims to reshape the platform’s content ecosystem and counter concerns over foreign ownership. If successful, the acquisition could redefine how creators and businesses engage on the platform, enhancing monetization opportunities and data transparency. This bold step underscores the growing influence of content creators in shaping the future of social media.
Read more here.