As generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini become integral to workplaces, their effects on critical thinking are being scrutinized. A study by Carnegie Mellon University and Microsoft Research reveals that while AI reduces mental effort in tasks, 62% of users engage in less critical thinking when using such tools, particularly for routine jobs.

However, professionals with confidence in their expertise are 27% more likely to question and verify AI-generated outputs, using AI for brainstorming rather than definitive answers. The shift from problem-solving to AI oversight has resulted in many workers editing AI drafts instead of creating content independently.

Though AI enhances efficiency, overreliance may lead to risks like reduced creativity, misinformation, and standardized thinking. To counter this, mindful AI use—emphasizing verification, learning, and deeper inquiry—can amplify analytical skills while preserving originality. Organizations must adapt by fostering human-AI collaboration that augments rather than replaces critical thinking.

Source: Forbes

For more details, read the full article here.

Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt expressed concerns about AI falling into the wrong hands, especially with rogue states like North Korea and Iran using it to create biological weapons. He warned of potential catastrophic events, drawing parallels to the “Bin Laden scenario.” While advocating for government oversight of AI, Schmidt cautioned against over-regulation, which could hinder innovation. He also supports limits on smartphone use for children to protect them from the dangers of technology.

For more details, visit the BBC.

The European Union is adjusting its tech regulations to boost investment in artificial intelligence, according to the EU’s digital chief Henna Virkkunen. The changes aim to create a more innovation-friendly environment without compromising the continent’s core values. This shift is part of broader efforts to remain competitive globally, particularly against tech giants in the U.S.

For further details, visit the Financial Times.

AI is increasingly being used in social engineering attacks, enhancing the tactics cybercriminals employ. Tools like deepfake videos and voice cloning allow attackers to impersonate individuals convincingly, making scams more effective. Generative AI also enables attackers to craft more convincing phishing messages in multiple languages.

Additionally, AI-powered tools can quickly gather personal information from public sources, creating detailed profiles for more targeted attacks. As AI advances, organizations must strengthen security measures to combat these evolving threats.

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Students are interested in AI, but schools are slow to adopt it. A study by STEM found that 45% of students use AI, mainly ChatGPT (89%) and Photomath (43%). AI is most often used for Czech language, foreign languages, and math.

Despite this, most teachers neither encourage nor prohibit AI use—over half simply ignore it. Experts warn that schools should integrate AI into lessons and teach students its benefits and risks. Teachers also need training to guide students effectively.

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Startup Syntilay has launched shoes designed by artificial intelligence (AI) and produced using 3D printing technology. The design process combines AI tools like Midjourney and Vizcom AI, along with human expertise. Customers can purchase these futuristic slip-ons in five different colors for approximately 150 dollars (around 3,500 CZK). To ensure a perfect fit, buyers are required to scan both of their feet using a smartphone camera.

novinky.cz

Source: Novinky.cz

At a Paris AI summit, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance strongly criticized the European Union’s regulatory approach to AI and tech giants. He warned that excessive regulation could stifle innovation, likening AI’s potential impact to the steam engine’s invention.

Vance specifically opposed the EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA), arguing it could suppress free speech and hinder AI advancements. The U.S. also refused to sign a joint AI declaration with EU leaders.

Source: ČT24

Chinese stock markets have recently experienced significant gains, largely driven by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). The CSI 300 Index, representing major companies on the Shanghai and Shenzhen exchanges, increased by nearly 1%. Similarly, the Shanghai Composite Index rose by 0.85%, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index saw a 2.64% uptick.

A notable contributor to this surge is the Chinese startup DeepSeek, which has entered the AI development arena. Shares of AI-related companies climbed by 2% and have accumulated a 13% gain since the beginning of the month.

Alibaba, a leading Chinese technology firm, experienced a significant boost, with its stock price increasing by over 8% to reach a four-month high. This rise is attributed to reports of a collaboration with Apple to integrate AI features into iPhones for the Chinese market.

The Hang Seng Tech Index, encompassing 30 major tech companies listed in Hong Kong, has surged approximately 25% since its low on January 13, signaling a bullish trend in Chinese tech stocks.

Bush Chu from Hong Kong-based investment firm Abrdn commented, “Only Chinese internet companies are globally competitive and comparable to America’s magnificent seven.” The “magnificent seven” refers to U.S. tech giants like Microsoft, Apple, Nvidia, Alphabet, Amazon, Meta Platforms, and Tesla.

The emergence of DeepSeek’s AI chatbot, developed at a fraction of the cost of its American counterparts, has challenged the U.S.’s dominant position in the AI sector. This development led to an initial sell-off in U.S. tech stocks, including Nvidia, a leading AI chip manufacturer.

Overall, the growing interest in AI is significantly influencing Chinese stock markets, with technology companies at the forefront of this upward trend.

Source: Forbes

Scotland’s national poet, Peter Mackay, has voiced concerns over the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on creating new literature. Speaking on the challenges writers face, Mackay proposed innovative solutions like “AI-free” logos on book covers or packaging-style guides detailing AI contributions to writing, such as “2% Gertrude Stein, 1% Vladimir Nabokov.”

Mackay emphasized that literary awards, such as the Highland Book Prize, can play a key role in preserving creativity by celebrating originality and unique writing styles that AI struggles to emulate. He warned of the potential consequences should AI-generated works win literary prizes, leaving writers to compete against machines. As technology reshapes the creative landscape, Mackay stressed the importance of recognizing and protecting human authorship.

Source: BBC

For more details, read the full article here.

Google has revised its AI principles, eliminating a previous commitment not to use artificial intelligence for developing weapons or surveillance tools. The update comes shortly after Donald Trump’s presidential inauguration, an event Google CEO Sundar Pichai attended.

Previously, Google’s leadership had assured that its AI would not contribute to harm or violate international standards. However, the updated AI policy reflects a shift, with Google emphasizing collaboration between democratic nations and companies to advance AI in support of national security.

The decision coincides with relaxed AI governance under the Trump administration, which rolled back regulations requiring companies to disclose risks associated with AI technologies. Critics view Google’s policy change as part of a broader trend in the U.S. AI race, with national security concerns influencing corporate strategies.

Source: Forbes Česko

For more details, read the full article here.