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McDonald’s Fires Its AI Drive-Thru Cashiers
Albert Chan
June 19, 2024
Luma AI Unveils Latest Text-to-Video Model
San Francisco-based startup Luma AI has introduced Dream Machine, a text-to-video AI tool offering up to 30 video generations per month. Dream Machine includes features like clip continuation, improved download options, and upcoming advanced editing capabilities such as changing backgrounds and characters. The platform also plans to introduce a discovery feature for exploring video concepts. With paid tiers starting at $29.99 per month, Dream Machine aims to compete with leading AI video tools despite some technical limitations and long wait times.
Why it matters: Dream Machine democratizes AI video generation, making advanced video creation tools accessible to a broader audience.
LinkedIn Introduces AI-Powered Career Coach
LinkedIn has rolled out new AI-driven tools, including career coaches, resume and cover letter generators, and improved search functionalities. These tools aim to personalize user experiences and streamline job applications.
Why it matters: While some fear a flood of AI-generated resumes, others see it as a way to level the playing field for all job seekers.
The International Olympic Committee Protect Athletes with AI
To address heightened tensions and political conflicts, the IOC will use AI to monitor and delete abusive social media posts in over 35 languages, protecting 15,000 athletes and organizers. This initiative marks the first large-scale use of AI for such a purpose at the Olympics. While privacy concerns arise, Olympic officials emphasize the necessity due to recent hostile actions, including fake content spread by Russian agents. The AI tool also aims to gather data on the prevalence and impact of online abuse.
Why it matters: AI deployment at this scale underscores the increasing role of technology in ensuring athlete safety and well-being.
Meta Pauses AI Plans in EU
Meta has agreed to halt using public user data from Facebook and Instagram in AI training after requests from the Irish Data Protection Commission and the UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office. This follows complaints from advocacy group NOYB, which argued that Meta’s data collection plans violated GDPR. Regulators expressed satisfaction with Meta’s decision, while Meta voiced disappointment, suggesting the pause might hinder offering a top-tier experience for European users.
Why it matters: This pause highlights ongoing tensions between tech innovation and regulatory compliance in the EU.
Runway Unveils Gen-3 Alpha
Runway has launched Gen-3 Alpha, an AI model that generates video clips from text and images, offering improved speed, fidelity, and control. The model excels in creating expressive human characters and supports precise key-framing and transitions, though it has limitations like a maximum footage length of 10 seconds. Runway has partnered with entertainment giants to tailor the model for specific artistic needs, and implemented safeguards to ensure content authenticity and address copyright issues.
Why it matters: Gen-3 Alpha's advancements position Runway as a key player in the competitive generative AI video tool market, potentially transforming the entertainment industry.
TikTok Enhances Ads with AI Avatars and Multilingual Dubbing
TikTok has introduced generative AI avatars for creators and stock actors to enhance branded content and ads. These "Custom Avatars" allow creators to replicate their likeness for global brand collaborations, while "Stock Avatars" use licensed actors to add a human touch to business content. TikTok also unveiled an "AI Dubbing" tool to translate and dub videos into ten languages, expanding global reach for creators. Part of TikTok Symphony, these tools are set to boost TikTok's advertising capabilities despite regulatory challenges.
Why it matters: These AI tools provide innovative ways for creators and brands to connect with global audiences while retaining authenticity and control over their digital presence.
McDonald’s Fires Its AI Drive-Thru Cashiers
McDonald’s is ending its AI voice ordering system test, which was deployed at over 100 locations through a partnership with IBM since 2021. The AI often made mistakes, such as adding multiple items due to picking up nearby audio, leading to customer frustration. Despite this setback, McDonald’s will continue exploring voice-activated AI technology and other partnerships, like with Google’s Ask Pickles, to enhance efficiency. Other fast-food chains like Wendy’s are also experimenting with AI to streamline operations.
Why it matters: McDonald's decision highlights the challenges and ongoing potential of AI in transforming fast-food service efficiency.
New Social App Blending AI and Human Interactions
Vu Tran, a former Snapchat engineer, has launched Butterflies, a new social media app where AI characters and humans interact. Users create AI characters, or "Butterflies," with unique opinions and emotions, which generate posts that both AIs and humans can engage with. After a successful five-month private beta, where users averaged 1-3 hours daily, Butterflies is now available on Apple and Google Play Stores. Tran touts Butterflies as a wholesome platform, particularly beneficial for those with social anxiety.
Why you should care: Butterflies offers a glimpse into the future of social media, blending AI and human interactions, a trend also being explored by giants like Meta and TikTok.
