Benchmark Capital invested at least $225 million in AI chipmaker Cerebras Systems' latest funding round, which raised $1 billion at a $23 billion valuation, according to TechCrunch. The investment comes as the tech world also grapples with a proposed wealth tax in California, sparking a planned "March for Billionaires" in San Francisco, and as Apple explores integrating AI chatbots like ChatGPT into its CarPlay system. Additionally, AI was a prominent feature in Super Bowl advertisements, with brands like Svedka leveraging the technology.
Cerebras Systems' recent funding round saw its valuation nearly triple in six months, a significant increase from its previous $8.1 billion valuation, as reported by TechCrunch. Benchmark Capital, a long-time investor, led the Series A round in 2016 and raised two separate vehicles, both called Benchmark Infrastructure, to accommodate the investment. The company's focus on AI chips positions it in a rapidly growing market.
Meanwhile, the debate over California's proposed wealth tax continues to generate controversy. An AI startup founder is organizing a "March for Billionaires" in San Francisco to protest the tax, according to TechCrunch. The event, scheduled for this coming Saturday, aims to highlight the potential negative consequences of the tax, with the organizer stating, "Vilifying billionaires is popular. Losing them is expensive."
Apple is also exploring the integration of AI chatbots into its CarPlay system, according to Bloomberg, as reported by TechCrunch. This move would allow users to interact with AI assistants like ChatGPT through their vehicle's infotainment system, potentially enhancing the driving experience. The next-generation CarPlay Ultra could further integrate AI capabilities, offering control over vehicle settings.
The Super Bowl also showcased the growing influence of AI in advertising. Svedka Vodka created what it touts as the first primarily AI-generated national Super Bowl spot, featuring its robot character, Fembot, according to TechCrunch. The ad, titled "Shake Your Bots Off," highlights the trend of brands leveraging AI for creative content and product promotion.
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