In AI news, generative AI threatens the "Know your customer" (KYC) identity verification process, with tools capable of creating convincing deepfakes. Amazon's Alexa introduces three new experiences and a more opinionated and emotional AI model. Google's Gemini AI platform and Meistrari's system for AI orchestration are also discussed. Duolingo cuts its contractor workforce by 10% due to AI. Top TechCrunch reads include the rise of mobile virtual network operators, a cyberattack on Fidelity National Financial, and Hertz's decision to sell off a third of its electric vehicle fleet.
Key takeaways:
- Samsung's Ballie, a home robot, has returned to CES 2024 with AI enhancements, including a spatial lidar sensor and a 1080p projector. Volkswagen is integrating AI chatbot ChatGPT into its cars and SUVs.
- Carta, a cap table management company, is facing controversy for brokering shares of a startup without the company's consent. Superpedestrian, an e-scooter company, is auctioning off over 20,000 scooters after shutting down its U.S. operations.
- Generative AI might make "Know your customer" (KYC) obsolete as AI tools can easily manipulate ID images to create convincing deepfakes. Amazon's Alexa is introducing three new experiences using generative AI.
- Real estate services giant Fidelity National Financial confirmed a cyberattack that stole data on 1.3 million customers. Hertz is selling off a third of its electric vehicle fleet, citing lower demand and higher repair costs.