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Repair pitfalls of Apple Vision Pro

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Apple Vision Pro: Repairs and Costs

Introduction:

On Kozminski techblog some students have already written about Apple Vision Pro details, features, prices and thoughts. But nobody mentioned its pitfalls, not many people know that the repair prices of this piece of technology cost a fortune. So, today I’m going to speak about repairing details, prices and technical challenges.

Overview of Repair Costs:

According to recent reports, repairing Apple’s cutting-edge Vision Pro headset may leave users with a hefty bill. The repair costs are soaring, shedding light on the financial implications of maintaining this advanced technology. If the headset’s cover glass cracks, it’ll set you back $799 to get it replaced. Other types of damage could cost you up to $2,399, which is only $1,100 less expensive than a brand new base unit. The repair pricing details have stirred discussions and raised concerns among Apple enthusiasts and potential buyers alike. This begs the question: Is the Apple Vision Pro a pricey investment with substantial long-term costs, or just a “fancy toy”?

AppleCare Plus Coverage:

AppleCare Plus is an extended warranty and technical support plan offered by Apple for their devices. It extends the one-year limited warranty and provides one-stop service and support from Apple experts. AppleCare Plus allows the customer unlimited incidents of accidental damage with a deductible, which varies by device. The coverage includes unlimited incidents of accidental damage, each subject to a service fee and applicable tax. AppleCare Plus with Theft and Loss coverage is also available in some countries. Understanding the coverage terms of AppleCare Plus becomes crucial for users looking to safeguard their investment in Apple devices and potentially save on repair expenses. 

Apple Vision Pro still needs a lot of work before release

Complex Repairs and Technical Challenges:

Looking more closely at the technical aspects of the Apple Vision Pro, the cost of repairs appears to be linked to the intricate design and advanced technology of the headset. Reports suggest that the complexity of the headset, including its state-of-the-art sensors and display components, contributes significantly to the high repair prices. Users are urged to handle their Apple Vision Pro with care to avoid accidental damage, given the potential challenges and costs associated with repairing this innovative device.

What consumers and industry think about it:

Revealing the cost of repairing the Vision Pro has sparked reactions on social media and technology forums. Concerns about the affordability and sustainability of owning and maintaining this high-end headset are being raised by users and industry experts alike. Examining consumer and industry sentiment provides valuable insight into the impact of repair costs on Apple Vision Pro’s perceived value.

References:

https://www.perplexity.ai

https://www.deepl.com/write

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/gadgets-news/this-is-how-much-apple-vision-pro-headset-repairs-will-cost/articleshow/107026034.cms

https://www.theverge.com/2024/1/19/24044605/apple-vision-pro-repair-price-applecare-plus

https://www.engadget.com/apple-vision-pro-repairs-could-set-you-back-as-much-as-2399-141439566.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAFrAmyx2XQlpi-X60EON-uH4zZ2Lc_LsuLvs7PAJMKDyvay5LCgo-Q3PjEKiYghoSisngWCod5-reu5eYAoaEuaS8IPCfmgRcar3prKP8PuOi5Yg2iqJb9vPCwlt4zuIHS-5pMdT91j6tD2YWSCxd4QpCoT6DoMb_w8416QLYcmx

https://uk.pcmag.com/vr-1/150551/be-careful-with-your-apple-vision-pro-it-can-cost-2399-to-repair


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EU reaches landmark agreement on AI regulation for a responsible tech future

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Clarifying the costs for the EU's AI Act – CEPS

In a groundbreaking development, the European Union has clinched a historic deal on regulating artificial intelligence, laying down a comprehensive framework to govern the use of smart technologies. The move underscores the EU’s commitment to responsible AI deployment and sets a global precedent for ethical AI practices.

Navigating the AI act:

At the heart of this regulatory overhaul is the “AI Act,” a seminal document encapsulating guidelines for the ethical use of AI. The Act introduces stringent measures aimed at promoting transparency, a critical element in the deployment of AI systems. The objective is to ensure that smart computers operate with clarity and avoid biased or discriminatory decision-making.

Balancing innovation with ethical considerations:

While the EU acknowledges the transformative potential of AI, certain applications have been flagged as high-risk and potentially detrimental. Practices such as facial recognition and the management of critical systems are under scrutiny, with the regulations cautioning against their unbridled use. Companies in the AI space are now mandated to adhere to these guidelines, with penalties in place for violations.

A law for foundation models: the EU AI Act can improve regulation for  fairer competition - OECD.AI

Massive public discussion: The divide between regulations and innovations

The reception of the AI Act has sparked a massive nuanced discourse. Proponents laud the EU’s proactive stance in establishing a standardized regulatory framework, considering it a necessary step to ensure the responsible development of AI technologies. However, critics argue that stringent regulations might stifle innovation. Striking a delicate balance between regulation and fostering technological advancements remains a formidable challenge.

Facial recognition and critical systems control: A cause for concern?

One of the central tenets of the AI Act is its focus on curtailing the unchecked use of facial recognition technology. This technology, while potent, raises significant concerns regarding privacy and potential misuse. The regulations set forth in the AI Act are designed to mitigate these risks.

Similarly, critical systems control, where AI systems have a direct impact on essential services, has been earmarked as a potential area of concern. The regulations aim to ensure that such systems are deployed with utmost caution and adherence to ethical considerations.

For companies entrenched in the AI sector, the recent introduction of the AI Act signifies a notable shift. Compliance with these regulations is no longer merely a legal obligation but has evolved into a strategic necessity. Navigating the intricacies of AI regulations is now an inherent component of the business strategy for tech companies.

Forget ChatGPT: Facial recognition emerges as AI rulebook's make-or-break  issue – POLITICO

Shaping the Business Landscape and Global Ethics:

For companies entrenched in the AI sector, the recent introduction of the AI Act signifies a notable shift. Compliance with these regulations is no longer merely a legal obligation but has evolved into a strategic necessity. Navigating the intricacies of AI regulations is now an inherent component of the business strategy for tech companies.

The implications of the EU’s regulatory move extend beyond domestic boundaries, casting a global influence. Acting as the inaugural comprehensive regulatory framework, the AI Act establishes a blueprint for ethical AI practices. Its significance reverberates worldwide, prompting other regions and nations to consider the EU’s model as they ponder the governance of AI technologies.

Personal vision:

I believe that this move by the EU is a decisive step towards ensuring responsible and ethical AI practices. While it introduces challenges for businesses operating in the AI sphere, it sets a commendable precedent for the global tech industry. To my mind, the idea of a comprehensive AI regulation framework brings a sense of assurance about the responsible development and deployment of AI technologies. It also signals a collective commitment to avoiding the pitfalls associated with unbridled technological advancement.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the introduction of the AI Act has redefined the landscape for tech companies, making compliance not just a legal mandate but a strategic imperative. The nuanced regulations demand a recalibration of business strategies, reflecting the evolving nature of AI governance. Globally, the EU’s initiative sets an influential precedent for ethical AI practices, with other nations likely to emulate this comprehensive regulatory framework. From a personal perspective, the AI Act instils confidence in the responsible development of AI technologies, assuring a balance between innovation and ethical considerations. As humans step into this new era of AI governance, the EU’s groundbreaking legislation underscores a commitment to shaping the future of artificial intelligence responsibly and ethically.

References:

https://chat.openai.com

https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/press-room/20231206IPR15699/artificial-intelligence-act-deal-on-comprehensive-rules-for-trustworthy-ai

https://www.aljazeera.com/economy/2023/12/9/european-union-reaches-agreement-on-landmark-legislation-to-regulate-ai

https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2023/12/09/artificial-intelligence-act-council-and-parliament-strike-a-deal-on-the-first-worldwide-rules-for-ai/

https://www.whitecase.com/insight-alert/dawn-eus-ai-act-political-agreement-reached-worlds-first-comprehensive-horizontal-ai

https://www.reuters.com/technology/whats-next-eu-ai-act-2023-12-14/

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-67668469

AI in GTA 6: how it can involve the game

Reading Time: 3 minutes
GTA 6 được sản xuất bởi A.I

On December 4th the world was shocked by Rockstar Games. Grand Theft Auto 6 trailer was announced and published. It blew the minds of many people, many changes were applied, and we were shown a completely new game. The heated discussion was also about AI and how it can benefit the game, especially improving interaction with NPCs.
In an interview with Inverse, Take-Two Interactive CEO Strauss Zelnick said, “Everyone’s working on that. You’re a playable character, you’re interacting with the non-playable character. That interaction is currently scripted. And the non-playable characters are generally not very interesting. You could imagine all the NPCs becoming really interesting and fun.” AI might also engage an opportunity to have dialogues that will be created in real-time after the game’s release. The depth of these dialogues could be managed manually. Similar to the game “Red Dead Redemption 2”, NPCs could engage in conversations and follow daily routines rather than remaining static.

Possible impact of Inworld AI on GTA 6 NPCs and their behaviour:

Inworld AI is a technology that can create “sentient streets” in video games, where NPCs follow daily routines, such as being in the hood, going to the coffee shop or walking with a dog. Inworld AI NPCs adapt to player behaviour, learn from interactions, and have distinct personalities and contextual awareness that stay in-world. Inworld AI has released a report that found that 79% of gamers are excited by the promise of AI NPCs, with 88% believing they would make a game more immersive. The report also found that 76% of gamers want better situational awareness from NPCs, and 60% would like to see more interactive dialogue and a sense of humour. Inworld AI uses artificial intelligence to bring virtual humans and NPCs to life, instilling them with distinct personalities whose personalities, thoughts, memories, and behaviors are designed to mimic the deeply social nature of human interaction.

According to GTA 6 possible leaks, AI might also benefit the driving process, making traffic movement and vehicles more realistic and adding sense in their ways. In addition, GTA 6 will contain two playable characters, and when you play for one of them, another will do something on the map as well thanks to AI, instead of simply disappearing.

Grand Theft Auto 6 map: Everything we know so far - Dot Esports


Will Rockstar Games add AI in GTA 6?

Rockstar Games has not given any comments about whether Grand Theft Auto VI, will use AI or not. The game’s release date is set for 2025, so there will be more information to come in the future.
To be honest, there’s a high chance GTA 6 will use AI that has been present in open-world games for the last decade. However, conjecture is just a conjecture, so fans can only guess to what extent it will be added and in what specific ways.
Gaming creator Doug “Dagnabbit,” expresses to Inverse that he believes Take-Two will make the correct decision regarding the use of AI, even though he’s not sure GTA 6 needs it.
He states that if GTA decides to incorporate AI, it must be beneficial for their games; otherwise, it would not be worth the potential drawbacks. “GTA is very well known for how good their open worlds are and how great the random encounters with NPC characters throughout those worlds can be.


What do we have in a nutshell:

Rockstar Games unveiled the Grand Theft Auto 6 (GTA 6) trailer on December 4th, introducing significant changes and sparking discussions about the potential benefits of AI. Strauss Zelnick, the CEO of Take-Two Interactive, has discussed the potential of generative AI in enhancing interactions with NPCs in GTA 6. He believes that AI could make NPCs more dynamic and interesting, similar to how AI has been used to improve interactions in other areas. Inworld AI technology could create immersive experiences, with NPCs adapting to player behaviour and having distinct personalities. Possible leaks suggest AI may impact driving realism and the behaviour of secondary playable characters in GTA 6. However, Rockstar Games has not confirmed whether Grand Theft Auto 6, set to release in 2025, will incorporate generative AI.

References:

https://tech.hindustantimes.com/gaming/news/gta-6-leak-from-npcs-to-open-world-know-how-ai-will-impact-the-game-71700052504061.html

https://www.pcguide.com/ai/gta-6-ai-npcs/

https://www.inverse.com/gaming/gta-6-generative-ai-take-two-ceo

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/gadgets-news/ai-can-make-grand-theft-auto-6-better-heres-what-take-two-ceo-has-to-say/articleshow/105190431.cms

https://www.paraphraser.io

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China releases new supercomputer with groundbreaking 384-core processor

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China has unveiled a new supercomputer, the Sunway SW26010 Pro, which is four times faster than its predecessor. The chip is based on a new architecture that is designed for high-performance computing (HPC) and is expected to be used for a wide range of applications, including scientific research, national security, and artificial intelligence.

The Sunway SW26010-Pro processor and supercomputers based on it first became known back in 2021, but only this year at a high-performance computing conference did the SC23 developer publicly demonstrate this chip and talk about its architecture. The maximum FP64 performance of each Sunway SW26010-Pro is 13.8 teraflops – for comparison, the 96-core AMD EPYC 9654 is about 5.4 teraflops. Sunway SW26010-Pro is based on a completely new proprietary RISC architecture – it includes six core groups (CG) and a Protocol Processing Unit (PPU). Each CG cluster combines 64 computing cores (Compute Processing Elements – CPE) with a 512-bit vector engine, 256 KB of ultra-fast data cache and 16 KB of instructions; one management core (Management Processing Element – MPE) – superscalar out-of-order core with a vector engine, 32 KB L1 cache for data and instructions, 512 KB L2 cache; as well as a 128-bit DDR4-3200 memory interface.

 Источник изображения: chipsandcheese.com

Where it can be used?

This groundbreaking supercomputer promises to revolutionize a diverse range of fields, from scientific research and national security to artificial intelligence and drug discovery. Its immense computational power will empower scientists to tackle intricate scientific problems, such as molecular modeling and weather forecasting. In the realm of national security, the supercomputer’s capabilities will enhance intelligence gathering and threat analysis. And in the burgeoning field of artificial intelligence, the SW26010 Pro will serve as a powerful tool for developing advanced algorithms and training sophisticated AI models.

Sunway SW26010-Pro is China's most powerful supercomputer chip to date |  TechSpot

In summary, China’s entry into the field of high-performance computing (HPC) has attracted global attention and sparked discussions about the implications of this technological advancement. Advocates of China’s supercomputing capabilities emphasize the potential for scientific breakthroughs and technological innovation that this achievement could facilitate. They envision a future where China’s HPC capabilities contribute to the advancement of fields such as medicine, energy, and environmental protection. In my humble opinion, the rapid development of China’s high-performance computing capabilities is indeed remarkable and has the potential to significantly impact various scientific and technological domains. However, it’s important to ensure that ethical considerations, data privacy, and security are carefully addressed as this technology continues to advance.

REFERENCES:

https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/chinas-new-384-core-cpu-boosts-its-supercomputing-capabilities

https://sundries.ua/en/china-unveils-its-newest-supercomputer-with-384-core-processor/

https://www.tomshardware.com/tech-industry/supercomputers/chinas-secretive-sunway-pro-cpu-quadruples-performance-over-its-predecessor-allowing-the-supercomputer-supercomputer-to-hit-exaflop-speeds

https://technewsspace.com/china-has-developed-a-384-core-sunway-sw26010-pro-chip-for-supercomputers-that-is-four-times-faster-than-its-predecessor/
https://bard.google.com/chat – for paraphrasing and structuring

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AI in film production: A Potential Revolution or Hollywood’s Replacement?

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Top 15 AI and Robotics Movies Showcasing Our Future Ahead

The idea of AI generating an entire blockbuster or detective movie induces an excitement and concern at the same time. According to an article by Inverse, proponents argue that AI-generated movies, driven by complex algorithms, could revolutionize storytelling and production.  Since AI tools evolve rapidly nowadays, some individuals predict sterling movies generated by AI in perspective of 5-7 years. They point out the fact that it emphasizes the efficiency gains in content creation, driven by AI’s ability to rapidly analyze audience preferences and generate tailored narratives.

“It’s going to be pretty clear those movies that have been made by humans versus those that are made by AI for a while.”

On the other hand, skeptics note that AI-generated storytelling have no emotional depth and authenticity. Critics may argue that the human experience, nuanced emotions, and creativity integral to filmmaking might be challenging for AI to replicate convincingly. The problem with generative AI tools today — and with their human prompters, perhaps — is that giving them the right guidance to sustain a contained story arc and visuals through time is exponentially difficult.

AI-generated short film The Frost:

The Frost screenshot

The Frost is a 12-minute movie in which every shot is generated by an image-making AI. It’s one of the most impressive examples yet of this strange new genre, generated by AI. A script written by Josh Rubin was taken as a basis.

An executive producer, who directed the film, used OpenAI’s image-making model DALL-E 2. After some trial and error to get the model to produce images in a style they were happy with, the filmmakers used DALL-E 2 to generate every single shot. Then they used D-ID, an AI tool that can add movement to still images, to animate these shots, making eyes blink and lips move.  He also claimed that it was a strange aesthetic, but they welcomed it with open arms. It became the look of the film. It is also stated that it took three-and-a-half months and a team of seven-plus contractors that whole time to make this 12-minute film.

Conclusion:

The prospect of AI-created blockbusters is fascinating, with potential benefits in efficiency and audience engagement. However, there are challenges because human creativity and emotions are complex and difficult to replicate. Some individuals worry that AI-generated content could replace human creativity, while others argue that AI can enhance human creativity by serving as a helpful tool for creative.  AI’s impact on human creativity is still uncertain, but it is clear that AI can expand humans’ understanding of creativity and inspire new ways of thinking. Recently, there have been many short films created using different AI tools. These films are made by machines and can only generate a few seconds of video. The Frost is one of these films and it uses a mix of different styles and techniques. Some parts of the film are like storyboards with still images, while other parts are made up of many short video clips that only last a few seconds.

References:

https://www.inverse.com/culture/when-will-ai-make-a-blockbuster-movie

https://www.technologyreview.com/2023/06/01/1073858/surreal-ai-generative-video-changing-film/

https://www.euronews.com/culture/2023/10/24/how-ai-is-reshaping-filmmaking-insights-from-unescos-conference-in-paris