This list is based on our annual 10 Breakthrough Technologies, but takes a broader view of the ideas, topics, and research shaping AI, highlighting trends and breakthroughs that are shaping the world.
We’ll be uncovering an item from the list every day here at The Download, and explaining what it means and why it matters. Read the full list now—and stay tuned for more to come.
MIT Technology Review described: Desalination plants in the Middle East are becoming increasingly vulnerable
As the conflict in Iran has escalated, a vital resource has come under fire: the desalination technology that supplies water to the region.
President Donald Trump recently threatened to destroy “probably all the desalination plants” in Iran if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened. The impact on farming, industry and, importantly, drinking in the Middle East could be severe. Know why.
-Casey Crownheart
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I’ve scoured the internet to find you today’s funniest/important/scary/fascinating stories about technology.
1 An unauthorized group has reportedly gained access to Anthropic’s Mythos
Users may have access to a private online forum. (bloomberg $)
+ Anthropic said the model was too dangerous for a full release. (Axios)
+ Mozilla used it to find 271 security vulnerabilities in Firefox. (wired $)
2 Meta AI will track workers’ clicks and keystrokes for training
Tracking software is being installed on workers’ computers.(reuters $)
+ Employees are excited about the program. (business insider)
+ LLMs could increase mass surveillance in the US. (MIT Technology Review)
3 ChatGPT Allegedly Advised Florida State Shooter
About when and where to attack and what ammunition to use. (Washington Post $)
+ Florida’s Attorney General is investigating ChatGPT’s role in the shooting. (Ars Technica)
+ Does AI create illusions or simply enhance them? (MIT Technology Review)
