This week we are exploring OpenAI’s 12 Days of Christmas, a new warning issued by the FBI, and more. Here’s the latest scoop on AI news around the world in 5 minutes! 🕔

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🎁 OpenAI Introduces "12 Days of OpenAI" with ChatGPT Pro
OpenAI has kicked off a 12-day event, dubbed "ship-mas," to showcase new features, products, and demonstrations. On the first day, they revealed ChatGPT Pro, a premium subscription tier priced at $200 per month. This plan offers unlimited access to OpenAI's top-tier models, including o1, GPT-4o, and Advanced Voice mode. However, some users have expressed dissatisfaction, citing that the subscription’s high cost doesn’t match the perceived value of the results.

🚨 FBI Warns Against AI Scams: Use a Secret Code Word
The FBI has issued a public alert about rising generative AI fraud schemes targeting smartphone users. To counter these sophisticated scams, the agency recommends hanging up on suspicious calls and creating a unique secret word or phrase to share only with trusted family and friends. This strategy aims to ensure identity verification during emergencies, as AI-powered deepfakes become increasingly realistic.

🏛️ Trump Names David Sacks as AI and Crypto Policy Lead
President-elect Donald Trump has appointed David Sacks, a former PayPal executive and venture capitalist, as the new AI and Cryptocurrency Czar. Sacks will lead efforts to shape policies that position the United States as a leader in these cutting-edge technologies. Despite past criticism of Trump, Sacks has changed his stance, hosting a fundraiser for the president-elect and now joining his administration to drive innovation and regulation in AI and crypto.

🎓 Wisconsin Professors Oppose AI-Driven Policy Changes
Faculty across the University of Wisconsin System are protesting a proposed copyright policy that would give the university ownership of instructional materials like syllabi. Professors fear this change could pave the way for AI-led classes, undermining student-professor relationships. Meanwhile, university officials argue these concerns are exaggerated and unfounded.

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🤖 AI Companions: Emotional Support or Risky Dependency?
AI companion apps are becoming increasingly popular, with users dedicating hours to building connections with chatbots. While some find comfort and inspiration in these interactions, experts warn of potential dangers, including emotional addiction, exploitation, and blurred boundaries between human and AI relationships, especially following high-profile cases of harm.

🎧 Spotify Adds AI-Generated Wrapped Podcasts
Spotify has introduced an AI-powered podcast as part of its 2024 Wrapped experience. This feature uses Google's NotebookLM to create a personalized audio overview of each user's listening habits, including favorite songs, artists, and genres. Available in English across seven countries, the AI podcast offers a unique and immersive way for users to relive their musical journeys.

🚦 Maryland Uses AI to Improve Traffic Flow
Maryland's State Highway Administration has deployed AI-powered smart sensors at intersections in Anne Arundel and Baltimore counties to optimize traffic management. These systems, equipped with cameras and radar, adjust signal timings based on real-time conditions to ease congestion, enhance safety, and increase road capacity. With expansion planned, this technology is a promising solution for Maryland's traffic challenges.

🛢️ AI Uncovers Undocumented Oil Wells
Researchers are leveraging AI to analyze decades of USGS topographic maps, identifying more than 1,300 potentially undocumented orphaned wells in California and Oklahoma. By combining AI with tools like drones and sensors, they aim to locate and address these wells, which pose environmental and climate risks.

🌮 Torchy's Tacos Adopts Voice AI for Ordering
Torchy's Tacos has began using SoundHound's advanced voice AI system across its 130 locations, allowing customers to place phone orders through a conversational assistant. This AI, trained on the restaurant's menu, handles multiple calls, processes customized orders, and provides information on specials, allergens, and more.

Stay tuned for more exciting insights in next week’s edition. Until then, keep overclocking your potential!

Zoe from Overclocked