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Plus AI Chatbots Drive Thrus Canceled (subscribe below)

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AI Comedy: Limited but Intriguing

A study by Google DeepMind explored AI's capability in writing comedy by having 20 comedians use AI tools like ChatGPT and Google Gemini. The comedians found AI useful for initial drafts and structuring sketches but described the humor as bland and unoriginal. Bias in AI responses was noted, with the models favoring certain perspectives. The study suggests that while AI can assist, true creativity remains a human domain.

McDonald’s Halts AI Drive-Thru Testing

McDonald’s will cease its AI chatbot drive-thru ordering program, ending its partnership with IBM by July 26, 2024. While the test, conducted in over 100 restaurants, showed potential for future voice-ordering solutions, McDonald’s may explore other options, including a Google deal announced in December. This pause reflects broader fast-food industry trends towards AI and automation.

We Don’t Want AI Writers in the Newsroom, Say Humans

Most news readers from the UK and US are uncomfortable with AI-generated journalism, according to a Reuters Institute survey. Only 23% of US and 10% of UK respondents are comfortable with AI-produced news, with the majority preferring AI be used only for behind-the-scenes tasks. This consensus underscores the importance of maintaining human oversight in news reporting.

AI Took Their Jobs. Now They Get Paid to Make It Sound Human

AI is replacing human copywriters, leading to new roles where people edit AI-generated text to make it sound more natural. Benjamin Miller’s team of 60 writers was replaced by AI, leaving him to edit the text for human nuances. Many editors find AI editing more tedious than original writing and earn less for it. Despite AI’s efficiency, some experienced writers view AI as a helpful tool, but entry-level writers face reduced job prospects and lower pay. As AI improves, the future of such jobs remains uncertain.

Amazon AI Cameras in UK Train Stations Raise Privacy Concerns

Amazon-powered AI cameras tested at UK train stations scanned passengers to predict age, gender, and emotions, with potential future use in advertising. Used for security and monitoring purposes, the technology raised privacy issues, particularly around emotion detection. Critics argue the lack of transparency and the potential for misuse threaten privacy and freedom.

AI and the Future of News: Balancing Innovation and Trust

A report by the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism highlights the significant challenges AI poses to the news industry, already strained by financial pressures and declining public trust. AI's role in news production, particularly in sensitive areas like politics or war, is viewed with suspicion by many, while its potential in supporting tasks like transcription is more accepted. The report underscores the importance of responsible AI use by trusted brands to maintain and potentially enhance public trust.