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Tech World Grapples with AI's Expanding Influence: From Social Media to Orbit
The rapid expansion of artificial intelligence (AI) is prompting significant changes across various sectors, from social media and retail to space exploration and even government contracts, according to recent reports from the BBC. These developments are also sparking both excitement and concern.
One notable impact is the proliferation of AI-generated content, often referred to as "AI slop," on social media platforms. A recent BBC Technology report highlighted the viral spread of absurd AI-generated images on Facebook, including one depicting emaciated children with beards soliciting likes, which garnered nearly a million interactions. Théodore, quoted by BBC, said "It boggled my mind. The absurd AI made images were all over Facebook." This phenomenon is raising questions about the authenticity and potential manipulation of online content.
Meanwhile, Elon Musk's SpaceX has applied to launch one million satellites into Earth's orbit to power AI, BBC Technology reported. The application claims "orbital data centres" are the most cost and energy-efficient way to meet the growing demand for AI computing power. The company argues that the processing needs of AI are outpacing "terrestrial capabilities." This would drastically increase the number of SpaceX satellites in orbit, adding to its existing Starlink network of nearly 10,000 satellites.
Starbucks is also betting on AI to improve efficiency and customer service, according to BBC Business. The coffee chain is implementing AI-powered robots to take drive-thru orders, virtual personal assistants for baristas, and scanning tools for inventory management. These changes aim to address issues such as out-of-stock items and improve overall operations, as the company seeks to reverse sluggish profits. Starbucks chief executive Brian Niccol does not rule out price increases as the coffee chain tries to reverse sluggish profits.
However, not all AI-related news is positive. French technology giant Capgemini announced it will sell its US subsidiary after facing criticism over its work with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), BBC Business reported. Capgemini Government Solutions had a contract with ICE to locate people, sparking outrage among French lawmakers and drawing international scrutiny. The fatal shooting of US citizens Renee Nicole Good and Alex Pretti by Border Patrol agents in Minneapolis have sparked protests across the US and led to increased scrutiny of the agency.
In another tech-related development, Pornhub is restricting access for UK users, BBC Technology reported. The move comes ahead of the full implementation of the Online Safety Act, which requires robust age verification measures. Pornhub's parent company, Aylo, claims the law has driven people to sites not following the law and increased "exposure." Critics of the law point out that it can be easily circumvented using a virtual private network (VPN). The age verification measures were due to come into effect in July 2025.
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