Google’s innovative “Ask for Me” feature is revolutionizing consumer interactions with local businesses through AI-driven automated calls. Leveraging the advanced Gemini 2.5 Pro model, this tool enables users in the U.S. to conduct inquiries or book appointments simply by requesting, “call the plumber.” The AI mimics natural dialogue, using lifelike voice synthesis from Google’s DeepMind technology. This feature, designed to minimize disruption, typically keeps calls under two minutes, proving effective in booking reservations during peak hours. With plans for global rollout by late 2025, “Ask for Me” enhances accessibility, alleviating hold times for consumers. However, businesses might face challenges from increased AI inquiries, prompting concerns over verification. Google is ensuring transparency by allowing select merchants to opt-in, while maintaining privacy protections. As AI technology evolves, “Ask for Me” could reshape consumer-business interactions, positioning Google ahead of competitors like Apple and Amazon.
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Google’s Gemini AI Launches ‘Ask for Me’ Feature for Hands-Free Business Calls Through Search in the U.S.
Scale AI Reduces Workforce by 14% Following Meta Investment and Appointment of Wang
Summary of Scale AI’s Recent Developments
Meta’s recent $14.3 billion investment in Scale AI has prompted significant changes within the company. Following the hiring of founder Alexandr Wang as Meta’s chief AI officer, Scale AI announced staff cuts impacting 14% of its workforce.
Key Points:
- Layoffs: 200 full-time employees affected, alongside 500 contractors.
- Leadership Change: Interim CEO Jason Droege highlights the need to reduce bureaucratic layers for agility.
- Future Focus: Plans to significantly increase headcount in enterprise and public sector divisions in H2 2025.
- Market Dynamics: Scale AI aims to enhance its ability to adapt to market shifts and better serve clients like OpenAI, Google, and Microsoft.
Droege expressed gratitude for the contributions of those leaving and emphasized the importance of streamlining operations for improved data solutions.
Are you curious about the implications of these changes for the AI landscape? Share your thoughts below! 🚀
Korean Startup Claims Its ‘AI Scientist’ Outshines Gemini 2.5 Pro and Claude Opus 4
Pluto Labs has introduced Scinapse AI, claiming it outperforms Google and Anthropic models at a fraction of the computational cost, generating excitement within the tech community. This innovative Korean startup asserts that its unique “Strategic Efficiency” architecture allows Scinapse AI to effectively manage data-intensive tasks like literature reviews through existing academic platforms, freeing it to concentrate on creative reasoning and generating novel ideas. A self-reported blind test revealed Scinapse consistently ranked first in “Plausibility” and “Testability” across 61 scientific topics, overshadowing competitors. The AI is grounded in a robust database of 260 million academic papers, aiming to combat hallucinations and deliver actionable research. Scheduled for global launch this quarter, Scinapse has set a new benchmark in AI capability and innovation. Industry experts will closely monitor independent validations to confirm Pluto Labs’ bold claims, marking an essential moment for AI development.
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A.I. Computing Power: Creating a Divide Between the Haves and Have-Nots
The Global A.I. Divide: Insights from Oxford University
Artificial intelligence is reshaping our world, but not all nations are equally equipped. According to recent findings by Oxford University:
- Data Center Distribution: A mere 32 countries host A.I.-specialized data centers, predominantly in the Northern Hemisphere. The U.S. and China control over 90% of these centers.
- Economic Implications: The concentration of computing power is creating a digital divide that influences global geopolitics and economies, leaving countries like Argentina and much of Africa struggling to compete.
- Tech Giants Dominance: Major players like OpenAI, Amazon, and Google are investing billions in A.I. infrastructure, causing a talent exodus from developing nations.
As countries rush to secure their A.I. futures, the risks are clear: without direct access to A.I. computing power, many will lag behind in innovation and economic growth.
🔗 Join the conversation! Share your thoughts on A.I. equity and what can be done to bridge this divide.
Google Search Boosts Intelligence with AI-Powered Calling and Advanced Research Features
Google has launched its advanced AI model, Gemini 2.5 Pro, in the AI Mode for Search, offering paid subscribers (Google AI Pro and AI Ultra) enhanced capabilities for tackling complex tasks like math problems and coding issues. This upgrade transforms Google Search into a powerful research assistant, capable of breaking down intricate topics and providing source links for further exploration. The new “Deep Search” tool accelerates research by generating detailed reports within minutes, automatedly gathering data from multiple sources.
Additionally, Google Search can now make calls to local businesses on your behalf, helping users compare prices and availability effortlessly. This feature, starting in the U.S., will utilize AI to assist with everyday tasks. The Gemini upgrades, available exclusively to subscribers ($20/month for Pro and $40/month for Ultra), position Google as a formidable competitor against platforms like ChatGPT, emphasizing a future where Search not only gathers information but also accomplishes tasks effectively. Free users will have access to limited features later.
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Promptbio.ai: Revolutionizing Biological Data Analysis with GenAI Technology
🌟 Introducing PromptBio.ai! 🌟
We’re excited to unveil PromptBio.ai, a revolutionary conversational platform set to transform biological data analysis. Designed for both bioinformaticians and wet-lab scientists, our platform makes data handling easy, scalable, and reproducible.
What PromptBio.ai Offers:
- Natural Language Processing: Interact with biological data in a user-friendly way.
- Accessibility: Even non-experts can leverage sophisticated tools.
- Cost-Effective Workflows: Tailored for industrial-grade efficiency without breaking the bank.
🔥 Join Us as a Beta Tester!
We invite professionals from academia and industry to help shape this cutting-edge platform. Your feedback is invaluable!
Get Started:
- Sign Up for Beta: Join here
- Read Our White Paper: Access here
- Connect with Us on Slack: Join now
👉 Share your thoughts and help us pioneer the future of bioinformatics!
“Is AI Diminishing Human Intelligence?” – The Economist
In a landscape where AI increasingly permeates daily life, a pressing question arises: Does AI make us less intelligent? According to The Economist, while AI’s capabilities can enhance efficiency and productivity, reliance on artificial intelligence may lead to intellectual complacency. Users might become overly dependent on AI tools for mundane tasks, such as information retrieval and problem-solving, potentially hindering critical thinking and cognitive skills. On the flip side, AI can serve as a valuable learning resource, promoting creativity and innovation when used wisely. The key is balance; leveraging AI for assistance without sacrificing personal intellectual engagement is crucial. Ultimately, the impact of AI on our intelligence is complex, encompassing both risks and rewards. Emphasizing responsible usage of AI technologies can help individuals enhance their cognitive abilities rather than diminish them, ensuring a future where human intelligence thrives alongside artificial intelligence.
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2025 Sees Generative AI in 1 in 5 Steam Games: A 700% Year-on-Year Surge with 7,818 Titles Utilizing AI Assets, Representing 7% of the Total Library
🌟 The Rise of Generative AI in Gaming: A Game Changer for Steam Titles! 🎮
Recent research reveals a staggering 681% increase in Steam titles utilizing Generative AI, skyrocketing from about 1,000 in 2024 to over 7,800 in 2025. This reveals a pivotal trend that AI is rapidly transforming the gaming landscape!
Key Insights:
- 20% of titles released in 2025 incorporate some form of GenAI.
- Major use cases include:
- Visual Assets: 60% for character and environment creation.
- Audio Generation: Background music and character voices.
- Narrative Development: Story arcs and item descriptions using LLMs.
- Code Assistance: Enhancements that streamline game development.
- Notable titles featuring GenAI include My Summer Car and Liar’s Bar, showcasing AI’s evolution in creative processes.
As developers navigate mixed attitudes toward AI, transparency remains key. This crucial data invites questions about consumer acceptance and future implications.
🔗 Curious to see how this tech shapes the future of gaming? Share your thoughts below!
Survey Reveals Gen Z’s Hesitation Toward AI Dating App Features Compared to Millennials
As online dating evolves, many young adults are growing weary of dating apps, prompting platforms like Tinder, Hinge, and Bumble to integrate AI features. These tools assist users in selecting profile photos, messaging matches, and crafting prompts. However, a recent Bloomberg Intelligence survey revealed that Gen Z feels even more uncomfortable than millennials using AI for these tasks. Nearly half of the 1,000 U.S. respondents expressed confidence in creating profiles and messaging independently. Despite the mixed feelings, a significant portion of Gen Z has engaged with AI in their dating experiences, with some even considering AI as potential partners. Industry experts, including Bloomberg’s Nicole D’Souza, assert that these apps fail to meet user needs effectively. In light of the growing desire for in-person connections, Tinder’s new CEO aims to revamp the app’s image and enhance user experience through AI-driven initiatives. Will AI redefine the online dating landscape? Only time will tell.
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5 Reasons Why Perplexity Stands Out Among AI Chatbots
Discover the Power of Perplexity AI: Your Go-To Research Tool
Artificial intelligence is evolving, and with it, the tools we use to enhance productivity and decision-making. Among the latest innovations is Perplexity AI—an AI chatbot that stands out for its reliability and sourcing capabilities.
Why Choose Perplexity AI?
- Trustworthy Sources: Unlike many chatbots, Perplexity prioritizes information from academic studies and credible resources, reducing the risk of getting misled.
- Tailored Research: Fine-tune your queries with features that allow you to focus on specific source types, ensuring you get the most relevant results.
- Real-Time Updates: Perplexity performs live searches, providing up-to-date answers as the information is retrieved from trusted spaces.
As many managers now employ AI for decision-making, the right tools can set you apart. With an intricate understanding of AI and a knack for detailed research, Perplexity is worth exploring!
🔍 Curious about how AI can transform your research? Share this post and join the conversation!