Welcome to today’s curated collection of interesting links and insights from 2025/08/22. Our AI-powered system has processed and summarized 23 URLs to bring you the key takeaways.
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The piece mocks @Microsoft’s move to embed AI into Excel through COPILOT, calling it a calculator that is wrong sometimes and using the development as a window into how executives are eager to graft AI into even the most precise, spreadsheet-centric workflows. It cites @TheVerge’s report that Excel’s new AI function can automatically fill cells, classify information, generate summaries, and create tables via natural language, yet Microsoft explicitly warns that COPILOT should not be used for numerical calculations or other tasks with accuracy requirements or high-stakes implications. The author argues that this deskilling of users and the potential for incorrect results illustrate a chasm between AI hype and practical reliability, likening the situation to historical benchmarks of calculation, Sumerian abacus outputs, William Oughtred’s slide rule, and the cheap Casio calculator, where outputs could mislead if trust isn’t earned. The piece places the Excel gambit within a wider tech-market backdrop by noting an MIT report that 95% of firms’ generative AI programs have failed to earn profits, while Nvidia remains a market anchor as others wobble, and Meta reshapes its AI division; together these signals frame the Excel feature as part of a larger, fragile bubble rather than a breakthrough. In sum, the article invites readers to skeptical interpretation of AI-enabled tools in everyday software, reminding that even a familiar program like Excel can produce wrong results and urging caution about interpreting AI as a reliable surrogate for math, analysis, or critical decision-making.
2. Why did MIT find 95% of AI project fail? Hint: it wasn’t about the tech itself
A MIT study finds that 95% of AI pilot projects fail to deliver any discernible financial savings, indicating the issue lies in deployment rather than the technology. Entitled The GenAI Divide: State of AI in Business 2025, it drew on interviews with 150 executives, surveys of 350 employees, and review of 300 AI projects. The findings suggest that missteps in how organizations adopt #GenAI, including governance, integration with existing processes, and incentive alignment, drive failures more than model quality. NANDA acknowledges potential incentives to frame the problem, and while it advocates agentic AI using its protocol, the report notes there is no indication the survey results were skewed. For leaders and investors, the takeaway is to rethink deployment strategies and governance, a caution echoed by @SamAltman regarding AI hype.
The U.S. is shifting its semiconductor funding approach from grants to equity investments, signaling a strategic change highlighted by Lutnick’s stance on the CHIPS Act. This strategy reflects a growing trend where government financial support aims to secure ownership stakes rather than merely offering aid, potentially reshaping industry dynamics. Evidence includes increased discussions on leveraging public funds to gain equity in semiconductor ventures, aligning with efforts to boost domestic manufacturing and technological sovereignty. Such a move could incentivize private-sector accountability and align interests between government and industry players. This evolving policy under the CHIPS Act underscores the intent to create a more sustainable and competitive semiconductor ecosystem in the U.S.
4. Microsoft says U.S. law takes precedence over Canadian data sovereignty
The U.S. CLOUD Act can override foreign data sovereignty, as shown by @Microsoft France’s testimony that data from French citizens hosted in the EU could be disclosed to U.S. authorities under a valid U.S. legal request, regardless of French or EU law. Microsoft France’s Director of Public and Legal Affairs, Anton Carniaux, said they could not guarantee that such data would be protected from U.S. requests, raising sovereignty concerns for France, Canada and other countries. This matters for Canada and other nations with data residency aims, because a U.S. request could compel disclosure even when data is stored domestically, undermining #dataresidency and national control. The testimony suggests that U.S. law can take precedence over domestic laws, challenging the notion that data sovereignty depends on where data is stored, and signaling a need to reevaluate protections for citizens’ information across borders. Overall, the article highlights a shifting legal landscape in which data may be accessed by the U.S. government regardless of location, urging policymakers to balance security, privacy and sovereignty.
5. Dev gets 4 years for creating kill switch on ex-employers’ systems
A software developer was sentenced to four years in prison for planting a kill switch in his ex-employer’s systems, designed to delete critical business data remotely. This action caused significant harm, including operational disruption and financial losses for the company. The developer’s intent to sabotage the company by exploiting his insider knowledge highlights the dangers of inadequate security controls and insider threats. This case underscores the importance of robust access management and monitoring to prevent similar attacks in corporate environments. The conviction reinforces legal consequences for malicious cyber activities targeting former employers.
6. Commonwealth Bank Reverses Job Cuts Decision Over AI Chatbots
Commonwealth Bank has reversed its earlier decision to cut jobs due to the adoption of #AI chatbots, emphasizing a shift in its approach to integrating technology with its workforce. The bank initially planned to reduce staff numbers, believing AI could handle various customer service tasks more efficiently. However, after reevaluating the impact, the bank recognized the need to balance automation with human roles to maintain service quality. This change highlights the complexities businesses face when implementing AI systems and the importance of human expertise in tandem with technology. Commonwealth Bank’s decision reflects a broader conversation about AI’s role in employment and customer engagement strategies across industries.
Two tech firms, @BlueOrigin and @Anduril, have won small AFRL REGAL study contracts to explore how orbital cargo transport and Earth reentry could move Pentagon supplies around the world. Blue Origin’s award, worth about $1.37 million, covers analysis of how its tech could enable point-to-point material transportation, with the work centered at Merritt Island, Florida. Anduril’s $1 million design study, under a separate call for proposals called ‘Payload Reentry from Space Development and Demonstrations’, envisions a reentry container capable of carrying five to ten tons and integrating multiple government-defined payloads across platforms, and must work with different rocks and propose a thermal protection system. The REGAL program is the experimentation arm of the broader Rocket Cargo effort and aims to prove out commercial, reusable rockets, reentry systems, and cargo transport to deliver to remote theaters in under an hour, signaling which players may win larger contracts. These early awards reflect a push toward delivery as a service and could mark a new business line for defense startups, aligning with REGAL’s goals.
8. Microsoft AI Chief Says It’s Dangerous to Study AI Consciousness
Microsoft’s Chief AI Officer has warned that investigating #AI consciousness is risky due to current technological and ethical uncertainties. He argued that focusing on AI’s sentience distracts from addressing more immediate challenges like safety, alignment, and bias mitigation. The concern is that pursuing consciousness studies prematurely may lead to misleading interpretations and public fear. This perspective urges the community to prioritize practical governance and ethical frameworks over speculative inquiries. The stance highlights the need for measured research guiding #AI development responsibly.
9. Wired and Business Insider remove ‘AI-written’ freelance articles
Wired and @BusinessInsider have removed freelance articles by Margaux Blanchard after concerns they were AI-written under a fake byline. Press Gazette reported that the pieces featured case studies of named individuals whose details it could not verify online, casting doubt on quotes and facts, and Index on Censorship is also pulling a magazine article by the same author after concerns raised by Press Gazette. A pitch Blanchard sent about Gravemont, a decommissioned mining town she claimed to have researched, appeared AI-like, and @JacobFuredi described it as ‘absolute bollocks’. The publisher has concluded the articles appear to have been written by AI, and Blanchard has not provided evidence that she is a real journalist or responded to requests for verification, underscoring the ongoing challenges of #AI-generated content and verification in freelance journalism.
10. This $199 Hacking Device Will Probably Let Thieves Steal Your Car
A $199 hacking device, called a signal amplifier or relay attack tool, can exploit vulnerabilities in keyless car entry systems to steal vehicles. These devices amplify the wireless signal from car keys inside a home, tricking the car into unlocking and starting without the owner’s knowledge. The rise of such technology highlights security flaws in keyless systems that manufacturers have yet to fully address, putting many modern cars at risk. Experts suggest practical defenses like storing keys in Faraday pouches to block signals and urge automakers to enhance encryption standards. This issue underscores the urgent need for improved #carSecurity measures as technology advances and criminals exploit these loopholes.
11. South Korea unveils humanoid robot with 40-newton fingertip strength
ALLEX, the first general-purpose humanoid platform from @WIRobotics, is designed for both industrial and household tasks. It responds to force, contact, and impact in real time, has 15 DOF for life-like movement, can detect forces as small as 100 gf without tactile sensors, and delivers 40 N fingertip force. An arm system features over ten times lower friction and rotational inertia, plus a gravity compensation mechanism from the waist to the upper body, enabling high-load work with energy efficiency. With emphasis on safety, versatility, and responsiveness to stimuli, ALLEX is positioned as a practical platform for a wide range of real-world tasks #humanoid #robotics #ALL-EXperience.
Russia’s government has mandated that the state-backed messaging app Max, intended to rival WhatsApp, be pre-installed on all smartphones shipped in the country starting 2025. This move reflects Russia’s intent to promote domestic technology solutions amid broader efforts to reduce reliance on Western apps and services. The requirement aims to boost national control over digital communication, as Max is developed and backed by Russian authorities. This directive could alter the smartphone market in Russia by increasing the prominence of local apps. The policy highlights the ongoing push for digital sovereignty in the face of geopolitical tensions.
13. Hertz to sell used vehicles online through Amazon Autos partnership
Hertz will start selling pre-owned vehicles on Amazon Autos, a move to bolster its retail business and lift profits. Customers within 75 miles of Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles and Seattle can browse thousands of Hertz used vehicles on Amazon Autos, e-sign the paperwork, complete purchases online, and pick up at Hertz locations, with plans to expand to 45 locations nationwide. The partnership gives Hertz greater visibility for its used-vehicle inventory and positions Amazon Autos as a growing platform for direct vehicle sales, with Hertz Car Sales as its first fleet dealer offering brands like Ford, Toyota, Chevrolet and Nissan. Executive vice president @Jeff Adams said the goal is to reimagine the car-buying experience, meeting customers online or in person with convenience and scale, while CEO @Gil West leads a broader turnaround that includes the ‘Back-to-Basics Roadmap’ focused on fleet management, revenue optimization, and cost efficiency. The move complements Hertz’s earlier expansion of its digital retail footprint and Rent2Buy momentum, which allows a three-day rental period before buying, and aligns with Hertz’s aim to boost its retail footprint and brand awareness.
14. Bay Area Tech Titan Announces Layoffs Amid Strong Market Pressures
A major Bay Area technology company has recently declared significant layoffs as it faces intense competition and economic challenges. The decision reflects broader trends in the #techindustry where companies must streamline operations to maintain profitability. Reported layoffs impact multiple departments, indicating a strategic shift towards focusing on core products and innovation. This move aims to position the company for sustainable growth despite a volatile market environment. The layoffs reflect the company’s effort to adapt to rapid changes and secure its leadership in the tech sector.
15. Meta Poaches Apple AI Executive Frank Chu Even as It Plans Hiring Slowdown
Meta has recruited Frank Chu, a prominent AI executive from Apple, despite announcing a company-wide hiring slowdown. Chu’s move highlights Meta’s ongoing commitment to advancing its AI capabilities, as he brings valuable experience from Apple’s AI efforts. This hiring indicates a strategic focus on bolstering AI talent amid broader cost-cutting measures. By securing top expertise like Chu’s, Meta aims to strengthen its competitive edge in the rapidly evolving #artificialintelligence landscape. This move underscores that while Meta is cautious with overall hiring, it prioritizes investment in critical AI leadership roles.
16. Zuckerberg freezes AI hiring amid bubble fears
Meta CEO @MarkZuckerberg has paused hiring for its AI division due to concerns over a potential tech bubble and the sustainability of rapid growth. Despite Meta’s aggressive investments in #ArtificialIntelligence, this step reflects a cautious approach to managing resources amid market uncertainties. The freeze affects new AI roles but not existing projects, signaling a strategic shift rather than a pullback from innovation. This move highlights the broader industry trend where tech giants balance ambitious AI development with financial prudence. It underscores the challenge of pursuing cutting-edge technology while mitigating risks associated with overheated markets.
17. Meta Poaches Apple AI Executive Frank Chu Even as It Plans Hiring Slowdown
Meta has recruited Frank Chu, a top artificial intelligence expert from Apple, despite announcing a slowdown in its hiring plans. Chu’s move reflects Meta’s strategic focus on strengthening its AI capabilities amid a competitive tech landscape. His experience and leadership in AI are expected to accelerate Meta’s advancements in machine learning and related technologies. This hiring decision suggests that Meta prioritizes innovation in AI even as it exercises caution in overall staffing. The move aligns with Meta’s broader efforts to enhance its technological edge and remain competitive against rivals like Apple.
18. SpaceX launches Space Force’s X-37B space plane on 8th mystery mission
The Space Force’s robotic X-37B space plane launched on its eighth mission, OTV-8, atop a SpaceX @SpaceX Falcon 9 from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, with the first stage returning to Cape Canaveral Space Force Station about 8.5 minutes later. The mission carries next-generation tech including #laser-communications and the highest-performing #quantum-inertial-sensor ever tested in space, enabling spacecraft to gauge acceleration and rotation in GPS-denied environments. Laser communications will test links with proliferated commercial satellite networks in LEO, strengthening the resilience and data-transport speeds of the national security space architecture. The payload aims to advance navigation and exploration capabilities while illustrating how the U.S. Space Force envisions a diversified and redundant network, potentially involving @Starlink, to ensure robust space operations. This mission demonstrates a broader push toward secure, high-capacity space networks as part of the #proliferated-space-networks concept.
19. Nvidia orders halt on H20 AI chip shipments due to quality concerns
Nvidia has instructed its suppliers to stop shipping the H20 AI chip as it addresses quality issues affecting the product performance. The H20 chip, designed for AI applications, was initially expected to enhance Nvidia’s portfolio but faced setbacks that delayed its market introduction. This decision reflects Nvidia’s focus on maintaining high standards and reliability for its AI hardware offerings, especially amid growing competition in the AI chip sector. The halt allows Nvidia to conduct thorough quality assessments and remediate problems before resuming shipments. Maintaining product integrity aligns with Nvidia’s commitment to leading innovation and customer trust in #AI technology.
21. Google Search AI Mode makes restaurant reservations easier, is available in 180 countries
AI Mode in #GoogleSearch is expanded to 180 countries and territories, introducing agentic capabilities that start with finding restaurant reservations and will later cover local services and event tickets. It searches across reservation platforms such as @OpenTable, @Resy, @Tock, @Ticketmaster, @StubHub, @SeatGeek and @Booksy to check real-time availability and returns a curated list with links to booking pages. It also introduces a new Share feature in the US, letting users share results with others and delete shared links, while results can be tailored to preferences based on prior conversations and searches in Search and Maps. Google positions this as part of the ‘Agentic capabilities in AI Mode’ experiment in Google Search Labs for those with Google AI Ultra, aimed at making tasks like dining planning and trip coordination easier and more collaborative. Ultimately, the update links back to the main idea: AI-driven, personalized reservation suggestions and seamless booking within a growing set of partners and future tasks.
22. Work-Life Balance Will Keep You Mediocre
In a cultural landscape that prioritizes #work-life balance, there is a risk of settling for mediocrity instead of striving for excellence. The article argues that individuals who rigidly separate work from personal life may miss opportunities for growth and achievement, as true success often requires dedication beyond standard hours. It critiques the notion that balancing work strictly with leisure prevents burnout, suggesting that passion and deep focus can sustain motivation more effectively. The discussion points to examples of high achievers who integrate work into their lives as a source of fulfillment rather than a separate burden. Ultimately, it challenges readers to reconsider the value of work-life balance when measured against potential for personal and professional greatness.
23. OpenAI to launch first India office in New Delhi this year
OpenAI plans to establish its first office in India, located in New Delhi, by the end of 2025. The move aims to tap into India’s vast pool of skilled tech professionals and enhance local collaboration in artificial intelligence development. OpenAI’s expansion reflects the growing importance of global AI hubs and the company’s commitment to broadening its international presence. By situating itself in India, OpenAI can better address the regional market needs while fostering innovation through partnerships with local tech industries and academic institutions. This initiative underscores the strategic role of India in the global AI landscape and OpenAI’s dedication to advancing #AI research and applications worldwide.
24. Organizers Are Demanding Palantir Drop Contracts With ICE and Israeli Military
Organizers are pressuring Palantir to drop contracts with ICE and the Israeli military, arguing that Palantir’s data-mining technology powers state surveillance and a Gaza-related genocide. In Seattle, activists from @NoAzureForApartheid and Jewish Voice for Peace gathered at Palantir’s offices, blocking elevators and marching to protest, with banners like ‘First Palantir Surveils, then IDF Kills’ and ‘Divest from Genocide.’ The piece notes existing and proposed deals, including a $96 million DHS contract in 2022 and a $30 million ICE contract under the Trump administration, plus plans for an ‘ImmigrationOS’ real-time tracking system and a ‘Mega API’ to unify IRS data with health, education and criminal-justice records for AI interpretation. It also cites a January 2024 strategic partnership with the Israeli Defense Ministry and UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese’s claim of reasonable grounds that Palantir supplied predictive policing, core defense infrastructure, and AI platforms like Lavender, Gospel, and Where’s Daddy used in life-and-death decisions. The article portrays Palantir as profiteering from these arrangements, notes @AlexKarp’s boast of growth, and frames the protests as part of a broader effort to hold tech firms accountable and #DivestFromGenocide, urging Palantir to end contracts that enable ICE and the Israeli military #Palantir #ICE #DHS #AI #Lavender #Gospel #Where’sDaddy
That’s all for today’s digest from 2025/08/22! We found and processed 23 URLs. Stay tuned for tomorrow’s collection of insights and discoveries.
Thanks Patricia Zougheib and Dr Badawi for curating the links
See you in the next one! 🚀