AI advancements, neuroscience breakthroughs...

Microsoft has introduced its "Humanist Superintelligence" (HSI) concept, championed by Mustafa Suleyman, emphasizing a practical, human-centered approach to AI development. Unlike Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), which aims for universal and autonomous intelligence, HSI is designed to address specific societal challenges while prioritizing safety, controllability, and alignment with human values. This marks a shift from broad, autonomous AI goals to specialized applications such as medical advancements and clean energy solutions. Critics remain skeptical about whether this vision transcends mere marketing rhetoric, although Suleyman’s ethical track record lends credibility to the initiative . Computer World

Google is intensifying its competition with Nvidia in the AI chip market by promoting its tensor processing units (TPUs) for deployment in customer data centers. This move expands beyond renting TPUs through Google Cloud and targets high-profile clients such as Meta Platforms. Analysts note that this strategy could challenge Nvidia’s dominance by offering alternative solutions for AI-driven workloads. The shift also reflects growing demand for specialized AI hardware as the industry evolves . The Information

Sam Altman and Jony Ive have teased a forthcoming AI hardware device that prioritizes simplicity and focus over the distractions typical of modern gadgets like smartphones. Positioned as a "calm" computing tool, the device promises to foster peaceful interactions with technology. This announcement reflects broader trends towards designing tech that integrates seamlessly into daily life without overwhelming users. However, skepticism persists about whether such a product will resonate with mainstream consumers . TechCrunch

Major insurers are now limiting their exposure to risks associated with artificial intelligence, citing concerns over systemic failures and potential multi-billion-dollar losses. Recent incidents of high-profile AI malfunctions have prompted this cautious approach. Industry observers suggest this trend could slow AI adoption in high-risk sectors while pressuring developers to prioritize robust safeguards . Tom's Hardware

Collaboration software company Atlassian revealed it spent four years restructuring its internal systems to mitigate dependency issues in its platform. The effort highlights the complexities and risks of maintaining outdated infrastructure in a fast-evolving tech landscape. While Atlassian claims progress, the challenges underscore how deeply technical debt can impact scalability and disaster recovery . The Register

Signal has launched secure, end-to-end encrypted backups for iOS, enabling users to preserve messages and multimedia with enhanced data protection. The feature offers a free plan and a premium option for larger storage. This development follows Signal's similar rollout on Android, emphasizing the growing demand for privacy-centric digital tools amidst increasing concerns over data breaches . The Verge

Independent game developers are increasingly marketing their projects as AI-free, pushing back against the widespread adoption of generative AI in the gaming industry. Developers argue the reliance on AI undermines creativity while raising concerns about ethical implications. This trend highlights a broader debate over the role of AI in artistic and creative domains . The Verge

OpenAI has introduced a new Shopping Research tool to streamline product comparisons for consumers. Available for free, the feature builds customized buyer’s guides, reducing the need for users to open multiple tabs. This innovation showcases the potential for large language models to simplify everyday tasks, though some caution against over-reliance on AI-driven recommendations . Tech Radar

At the 2025 Society for Neuroscience meeting, researchers highlighted how artificial intelligence is transforming the field. AI tools are enabling faster data analysis, guiding experimental designs, and improving clinical diagnostics. This intersection of technology and neuroscience is fostering innovations in understanding brain functions and advancing treatments for neurological disorders. Experts view AI as an indispensable resource for future scientific breakthroughs . The Scientist

The James Webb Space Telescope may have detected the most distant supermassive black hole to date, located in the galaxy GHZ2 and dating back 350 million years after the Big Bang. This discovery provides critical insights into the early universe and the rapid growth of black holes and galaxies. The findings highlight the telescope’s capacity to unravel the mysteries of cosmic origins . Live Science