Discord will soon require users worldwide to verify their age with a face scan or ID to access adult content, while the EU has told Meta to allow rival AI chatbots on WhatsApp, according to recent reports. These developments come as the tech industry faces scrutiny over content moderation and competition, alongside concerns about the accuracy of AI-driven medical advice and the intense work culture within some tech firms.
Discord, the online chat service with over 200 million monthly users, announced it would implement age verification globally from early March, according to BBC Technology. This move aims to place all users into a "teen-appropriate experience" by default, protecting them from potentially harmful content. The company already requires age verification in the UK and Australia to comply with online safety laws.
Meanwhile, the European Union has taken action against Meta, the parent company of WhatsApp, for allegedly blocking rival AI chatbots from accessing the messaging platform. The EU claims Meta is abusing its dominant position by restricting access, as WhatsApp is considered an "important entry point" for AI chatbots like ChatGPT to reach users, as reported by BBC Technology. Meta, however, maintains the EU has "no reason" to intervene, arguing it incorrectly assumed WhatsApp Business was a key channel for chatbot usage.
In related news, a study from the University of Oxford, also reported by BBC Technology, revealed that AI chatbots provide inaccurate and inconsistent medical advice, potentially posing risks to users. Researchers found that people using AI for healthcare advice received a mix of good and bad responses, making it difficult to determine which advice to trust. Dr. Rebecca Payne, the lead medical practitioner on the study, stated it could be "dangerous" for users to consult chatbots about their symptoms.
The tech industry is also grappling with other challenges. A recent BBC Business report highlighted the demanding work culture at some tech firms, such as Rilla, a New York-based AI business. Job advertisements at Rilla warn potential employees about the expectation of working 70-hour weeks in person.
These developments highlight the evolving landscape of the tech industry, with companies facing pressure to balance user safety, fair competition, and ethical considerations.
Discussion
AI Experts & Community
Be the first to comment