At its annual Connect conference, Meta Platforms unveiled its first working prototype of augmented-reality glasses called Orion. CEO Mark Zuckerberg described the chunky black glasses as a glimpse into a future where virtual and physical worlds merge seamlessly, referring to them as a “time machine” that could transform user interactions. The announcement also featured improved AI chatbot capabilities and a new Quest mixed-reality headset, contributing to a record closing high for Meta shares at $568.31.
The Orion glasses, made from magnesium alloy and powered by custom silicon designed by Meta, will include features like hand-tracking, voice controls, and a wrist-based neural interface. Meta plans to refine the glasses to make them smaller and more affordable for a projected consumer launch in 2027. However, previous attempts at AR by major tech companies have often encountered challenges. Analysts recognise Meta’s goal of making augmented reality accessible, but public scepticism about AI technology continues to be a significant barrier.
Although Zuckerberg did not demonstrate the glasses’ features live, a video showcased testers, including Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, interacting with the device. Meta’s existing Ray-Ban smart glasses gained popularity after the introduction of an AI assistant, which will soon allow users to scan QR codes and stream music using voice commands. Future updates for these glasses are set to include real-time language translation and video generation capabilities.
Alongside its AR announcements, Meta unveiled several AI updates, including improved audio responses for its digital assistant, Meta AI, which can now mimic celebrity voices. With over 400 million monthly users, Meta is heavily investing in AI and AR technologies, anticipating record capital expenses of $37 billion to $40 billion for 2024. However, despite these investments, the Reality Labs division reported substantial losses of $8.3 billion in the first half of this year.
Microsoft has announced a significant investment of $1.3 billion in Mexico over the next three years, aimed at strengthening its cloud computing and AI infrastructure. During an event in Mexico City, CEO Satya Nadella emphasised the company’s commitment to enhancing connectivity and promoting AI adoption, particularly among small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). The initiative is expected to reach 5 million people and support 30,000 SMBs in the region.
Major Mexican companies, including Bimbo and Cemex, are already utilising Microsoft’s AI tools, showcasing the growing integration of technology in the country. Additionally, in partnership with Viasat, Microsoft plans to extend internet access to 150,000 Mexicans without connectivity by the end of 2025.
The investment has been positively received by Mexico’s incoming Economy Minister Marcelo Ebrard, who believes it will significantly accelerate the nation’s AI development.
Several police departments in the United States have begun using AI to write incident reports, aiming to reduce time spent on paperwork. Oklahoma City’s police department was an early adopter of the AI-powered Draft One software, but paused its use to address concerns raised by the District Attorney’s office. The software analyses bodycam footage and radio transmissions to draft reports, potentially speeding up processes, although it may raise legal concerns.
Paul Mauro, a former NYPD inspector, noted that the technology could significantly reduce the burden on officers, who often spend hours writing various reports. However, he warned that officers must still review AI-generated reports carefully to avoid errors. The risk of inaccuracies or ‘AI hallucinations’ means oversight remains crucial, particularly when reports are used as evidence in court.
Mauro suggested that AI-generated reports could help standardise police documentation and assist in data analysis across multiple cases. This could improve efficiency in investigations by identifying patterns more quickly than manual methods. He also recommended using the technology for minor crimes while legal experts ensure compliance with regulations.
The potential for AI to transform police work has drawn comparisons to the initial resistance to bodycams, which are now widely accepted. While there are challenges, the introduction of AI in police reporting may offer long-term benefits for law enforcement, if implemented thoughtfully and responsibly.
Russia has been the most active foreign power using AI to influence the upcoming United States presidential election, according to a US intelligence official. Moscow’s efforts have focused on supporting Donald Trump and undermining Kamala Harris and the Democratic Party. Russian influence actors are employing AI-generated content, such as text, images, and videos, to spread pro-Trump narratives and disinformation targeting Harris.
In July, the US Justice Department revealed the disruption of a Russia-backed operation that used AI-enhanced social media accounts to spread pro-Kremlin messages in the US Additionally, Russian actors staged a false hit-and-run video involving Harris, according to Microsoft research. The intelligence official described Russia as a more sophisticated player in comparison to other foreign actors.
China has also been leveraging AI to shape global perceptions, though it is not focused on influencing the US election outcome. Instead, Beijing is using AI to promote divisive political issues in the US, while Iran has employed AI to generate inauthentic news articles and social media posts, targeting polarising topics such as Israel and the Gaza conflict.
Both Russia and Iran have denied interfering in the US election, with China also distancing itself from attempts to influence the voting process. However, US intelligence continues to monitor the use of AI in foreign influence operations as the November 5 election approaches.
Vietnam’s President To Lam met with leading US firms in New York, pledging to strengthen the domestic tech sector. Discussions focused on boosting Vietnam’s digital transformation and enhancing strategic industries like AI and semiconductors. The Vietnamese president also held talks with major companies including Apple, Blackstone, and Warburg Pincus.
Meta, which already has millions of Facebook users in Vietnam, committed to increasing its investment in the country. Plans include expanding virtual reality production in Vietnam, signalling a stronger presence in the nation’s tech landscape. Meta’s Nick Clegg expressed confidence in Vietnam’s digital potential.
During Lam’s visit, cooperation agreements with US firms were signed. These agreements cover various sectors such as energy, artificial intelligence, and a new data centre initiative, further solidifying ties between the two nations.
The Vietnamese government emphasised that digital transformation will be key to future economic growth. Lam reaffirmed Vietnam’s commitment to advancing the tech economy and fostering innovation through international collaboration.
France has appointed Clara Chappaz, the CEO of La French Tech, as its first-ever minister dedicated to AI and Digitalisation, marking a significant step in its quest to become a global leader in AI. That appointment aligns with President Emmanuel Macron’s vision to transform Paris into the ‘city of AI.’
Chappaz expressed her enthusiasm for the role, highlighting her commitment to public action on digital and AI subjects. The new ministerial title underscores France’s strategic focus on advancing its AI capabilities, further evidenced by its efforts to foster generative AI enterprises like Mistral AI and H and its plans to host the International AI Summit in February.
France’s national AI strategy, published last year, promises a €500 million investment to establish AI clusters by 2030. Chappaz, 35, has significantly contributed to the tech industry and gender equality during her tenure at La French Tech. She launched an optional parity pact that mandates a 20 percent minimum quota of women on boards of directors by 2025 and requires managers to be trained in diversity and anti-discrimination practices.
Why does it matter?
Amid recent political changes in France, including the National Assembly’s dissolution and Michel Barnier’s appointment as prime minister, Chappaz’s new role is seen as a stabilising move. She will report to the Ministry of Higher Education and Research, signalling a potential shift towards integrating AI advancements with educational and research initiatives. Chappaz’s appointment and France’s strategic extensions in AI policies highlight the nation’s intent to lead technological innovation while upholding ethical standards and promoting inclusivity.
Microsoft has introduced a new service, called Correction, aimed at addressing a significant flaw in AI models, hallucinations, or factually incorrect responses. The tool identifies and revises erroneous AI-generated content by cross-referencing with accurate data sources, such as transcripts. Correction, available through Microsoft’s Azure AI Content Safety API, works with various models, including OpenAI’s GPT-4.
While Microsoft promotes Correction as a way to boost AI reliability, experts remain skeptical. Researchers warn that hallucinations are deeply ingrained in how AI models operate. Since these systems rely on statistical patterns rather than actual knowledge, completely eliminating false outputs might be impossible. They also caution that this solution could create new issues, like giving users a false sense of trust in AI outputs.
Despite these concerns, Microsoft is pushing to demonstrate the value of its AI tools, having invested billions in the technology. However, concerns about performance and cost are mounting, with some clients already pausing AI deployments due to inaccuracies and high expenses. Experts argue that AI, still in its developmental stages, is being rushed into industries without fully addressing its flaws.
Oman has launched the National Programme for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Advanced Digital Technologies, aiming to secure global digital leadership and enhance the role of information and communications technology (ICT) in the economy. That initiative, running from 2024 to 2026, is part of the broader Oman Vision 2040 objectives, which seek to align the country with global advancements in AI.
The National Programme for Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Oman aims to establish a national open data platform to support entrepreneurs and decision-makers, create a research centre for AI, and develop a collaborative AI studio for technological solutions. It will also produce an Omani language model using generative AI and establish a centre for Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies in partnership with the World Economic Forum, alongside quantum computing initiatives.
Minister H E Saeed bin Hamood al Mawali emphasised the government’s commitment to integrating AI across sectors to enhance the digital economy’s contribution to GDP from 2% in 2021 to 10% by 2040. Additionally, the programme includes the AI Makers Initiative, opportunities for startups, and AI and data analysis training for Omani youth to prepare them as future innovators and creators.
Israel is proactively shaping its AI landscape by establishing a national expert forum on AI policy and regulation. Led by the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, this initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to responsibly harnessing AI and unites experts to address its challenges and opportunities.
Its primary goal is to develop a comprehensive strategy for AI’s safe and ethical use, fostering innovation and maximising social and economic benefits. Specifically, by addressing data privacy, algorithmic bias, and ethical considerations, the forum aims to create a regulatory framework that supports technological advancements while protecting public interests.
Moreover, regular meetings will foster collaboration and dialogue among members, providing valuable insights to help the ministry navigate the complexities and risks of AI deployment. This collaborative environment will encourage sharing best practices and lessons learned from international AI governance experiences. Additionally, members will play a crucial role in shaping Israel’s policies in response to global developments in AI.
By actively monitoring international trends, the forum will ensure that Israel remains a leader in AI research and application while adhering to responsible governance practices. Ultimately, carefully selecting diverse and expert members will enrich discussions, thereby creating a comprehensive approach to AI governance that benefits all sectors of society.
OECD and the UN have established a significant partnership to enhance global governance for AI. That collaboration recognises the rapid advancement of AI technology and highlights the necessity for cohesive policy ecosystems to tackle its associated opportunities and challenges effectively.
By joining forces, the two organisations aim to provide comprehensive support to member states, ensuring that AI governance evolves with technological progress. The partnership underscores the importance of engaging diverse stakeholders, including scientists and academic institutions, to create a robust framework that addresses the complexities of AI governance. This inclusive approach guarantees that policy responses are well-informed and reflect the multifaceted impact of AI on society.
Furthermore, the OECD and UN will conduct regular assessments of AI-related risks and opportunities to ensure their initiatives remain aligned with the ever-evolving AI landscape. The proactive strategy will empower member states to navigate the intricacies of AI governance while fostering an inclusive approach that addresses both the benefits and challenges.
They share a vision of human-centred AI governance that prioritises safety, security, and trustworthiness, placing human interests at the forefront. This commitment to responsible governance is crucial for effectively managing the risks and disruptions posed by advancing AI technologies.
Why does this matter?
Ultimately, this collaboration emphasises the importance of rigorous scientific assessments and the role of the OECD’s AI Policy Observatory in understanding AI’s implications and fostering responsible innovation. The OECD and UN aim to equip countries with the necessary tools to harness AI’s potential while mitigating its risks, thereby promoting a globally inclusive approach to AI policy.
