AI news & updates

The US Department of Justice continues to push for Google to divest its Chrome browser, a proposal initially made last year. However, the DOJ is now open to allowing AI investments, indicating a shift in regulatory focus.

Google has removed references to 'diversity' and 'equity' from its Responsible AI team webpage, which previously highlighted commitments to marginalized communities and fairness in AI, raising concerns about the company's stance on these issues.

A federal judge has permitted an AI copyright lawsuit against Meta to proceed, where authors like Richard Kadrey and Sarah Silverman claim their works were used without permission to train Meta's Llama AI models.

OpenAI is considering a subscription model that could charge $20,000 monthly for specialized AI agents. This week also highlights the return of Digg and advancements in genetic engineering.

In 2025, nine U.S. AI startups have successfully raised over $100 million each, continuing the trend of significant venture funding in the AI sector, following a record year in 2024.

Jo Tan from HP discusses the integration of AI in gaming PCs, emphasizing how new technologies enhance gameplay and content creation, allowing gamers to become creators and connect with their audiences more effectively.

The General Services Administration has begun using DOGE's GSAi chatbot to automate tasks like drafting emails and analyzing procurement data, following significant job cuts within the agency.

Anysphere, the creator of the AI coding assistant Cursor, is negotiating to raise funds at a valuation nearing $10 billion, reflecting the surging investor interest in AI coding technologies.

Microsoft is intensifying its AI initiatives to rival OpenAI by creating its own advanced AI models and exploring alternatives for products like Copilot, aiming to enhance its competitive edge.

At SXSW 2025, TechCrunch focuses on the intersection of technology and culture, emphasizing the significant role of AI in shaping current trends across various sectors, including music, film, and health.

Meredith Whittaker, President of Signal, highlighted significant privacy risks associated with agentic AI during her SXSW speech, likening its implications to 'putting your brain in a jar' and urging caution in its adoption.

In 2025, the U.S. sees a surge in AI legislation, with 781 pending bills aimed at regulating artificial intelligence, surpassing the total number proposed in previous years, indicating a growing focus on AI governance.