Amazon has resumed drone deliveries in Phoenix, Arizona, months after pausing its Prime Air program in California. Customers can select from over 50,000 eligible items under 5 pounds, with deliveries expected within an hour. The MK30 drone, approved for longer flights, is utilized for this service.

AI enthusiasts are exploring games to benchmark AI problem-solving skills. Paul Calcraft created a Pictionary-like app where two AI models engage: one doodles, the other guesses. This approach pushes models to think beyond rote memorization and enhances understanding of concepts.

During TechCrunch Disrupt 2024, AI safety advocates urged startups to “move cautiously” instead of rushing to release products. Sarah Myers West emphasized the ethical implications of AI technologies, highlighting concerns surrounding their impact on society and artists’ rights.

Coatue Management is raising $1 billion for its flagship fund to invest in AI-focused companies, targeting institutional investors and high-net-worth individuals. Despite a slowdown in startup investments, Coatue remains active, backing 29 startups in 2024, including Glean and Scale AI.

Caitlin Kalinowski, former head of Meta’s augmented reality glasses, joins OpenAI to lead robotics and consumer hardware. In her new role, she aims to integrate AI into the physical world, working on a project with Jony Ive to create less disruptive computing experiences.

Apple’s integration of OpenAI’s ChatGPT in December with iOS 18.2 aims to enhance Siri and other features. The iOS beta now includes an option to upgrade to ChatGPT Plus in settings, potentially boosting subscriptions for OpenAI’s premium plan, vital for revenue.

Perplexity’s CEO, Aravind Srinivas, has offered to provide services amidst the NYT tech workers’ strike, asserting he could assist with essential coverage during the election. This sparked backlash, with critics labeling his actions as those of a “scab” undermining labor efforts.

Aravind Srinivas, CEO of AI search firm Perplexity, has sparked controversy by offering to provide services during a strike by New York Times tech workers. The NYT Tech Guild is demanding fair contracts, with picketers voicing their frustrations amid ongoing negotiations.

Prime Video introduces “X-Ray Recaps,” a generative AI feature generating spoiler-free summaries of TV seasons and episodes. Available on select Amazon MGM Studios titles, this personalized tool analyzes video and dialogue, enhancing viewer enjoyment without the risk of spoilers.

Amazon, Meta, and Microsoft are investing in nuclear power to meet their soaring energy demands for AI data centers. However, recent regulatory setbacks have hindered these plans. Issues like environmental concerns and grid reliability have complicated their energy strategies.