In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented reality (AR) are on the brink of transforming everyday life, major tech companies are locked in a fierce battle for dominance. Condé Nast recently made headlines by forging a groundbreaking partnership with OpenAI, joining forces with other prestigious publishers and news outlets like the Associated Press, Axel Springer, and The Atlantic. This collaboration aims to leverage AI’s vast potential to revolutionize content creation and distribution. However, not everyone is embracing this wave of innovation. The New York Times, along with other media giants, has taken legal action against OpenAI and Microsoft, accusing them of copyright infringement for using their content in AI training. This legal clash highlights the tension between technological progress and intellectual property rights in our increasingly digital world.
Meanwhile, in the realm of AR, London-based startup VividQ has secured a significant $7.5 million in Series A funding. VividQ’s cutting-edge technology creates immersive 3D and holographic experiences that eliminate the need for traditional screens, paving the way for futuristic visual applications. By partnering with industry leaders like JVCKenwood, VividQ plans to integrate its groundbreaking technology into advanced displays and automotive head-up displays. This funding round, led by Foresight Group LLP, saw participation from new investors including GameTech Ventures and Ruttenberg Gordon Investments (RGI), as well as existing supporters. Since its founding in 2017, VividQ has raised over $30 million, marking a significant milestone in its quest to redefine visual experiences.
In the competitive landscape of AR, Meta and Snap are set to unveil their latest AR glasses next month, underscoring their rivalry in this burgeoning market. Despite Snap’s decision to turn down a billion-dollar acquisition offer from Meta (formerly Facebook), the two companies are now in a technological arms race. On September 17th, Snap CEO Evan Spiegel will reveal the fifth generation of Spectacles, while Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is scheduled to introduce the Orion glasses on September 25th. Both companies are heavily investing in AR as the next major leap in computing platforms, but challenges remain. Meta has poured billions into the Orion project, and Snap’s financial stability is under scrutiny. These upcoming launches will be pivotal in determining the future of consumer-ready AR devices.
Contrary to earlier announcements, Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas will not be coming to VR anytime soon. Back in October 2021, during the launch of Meta’s rebranding, CEO Mark Zuckerberg excitedly announced that his “favorite” game would soon be part of the Quest Metaverse. However, Rockstar Games has remained conspicuously silent on the matter. The concept of a VR world where players engage in criminal activities and confront law enforcement raises ethical questions and concerns about public safety. As the dark side of the Metaverse becomes more apparent, it is crucial that responsible companies take steps to prevent its unchecked development. Failing to do so could lead to serious consequences.
AI’s creative potential is also being explored in The Visual Dome, an AI-driven artistic universe created by Tony Rapacioli, a music producer turned visual artist. With a rapidly growing global fanbase of over 700,000 followers on Instagram, The Visual Dome showcases AI’s transformative impact on the art world. This innovative project captivates both art enthusiasts and professionals, bridging the gap between traditional and digital art forms.
AI is making waves in children’s entertainment as well. Storybook Studios recently launched “Space Vets,” an animated series that exemplifies a hybrid production model where traditional storytelling meets AI-generated special effects. Creative Director Albert Bozesan explains that this approach ensures consistent narratives, setting “Space Vets” apart from mere tech demos and trailers. Featuring human writers and voice actors enhanced by AI tools, the show pushes the boundaries of animated storytelling. Audiences can watch episodes on Storybook Studios’ website, experiencing this novel approach firsthand.
However, not all AI applications are cause for celebration. Deep fakes have emerged as a troubling tool, capable of superimposing any face onto different bodies, often with malicious intent. Known as Faceswap, this technology can make it appear as though celebrities or politicians are committing crimes, a tactic with the potential to wreak havoc on social media, especially with the upcoming U.S. elections in November. Despite the introduction of safeguards, the misuse of deep fakes remains a significant threat, underscoring the urgent need for robust regulatory measures.
As we navigate this transformative era, these developments offer a glimpse into the rapidly evolving intersection of technology, creativity, and ethics. They remind us that while innovation holds immense potential, it must be guided with care to ensure it benefits society as a whole.