The AI Debate, TikTok Controversies, and the Rise of Web3: This Week in Digital News 📰💻🌐
Digital Women ™
Digital Skills, Learning & Community Supportive peer-to-peer e-learning community platform, events and awards
This week's Digital News Roundup: Keep ahead of the curve in the digital industry with our jam-packed newsletter with the latest and greatest in social media, tech, and web3.
Do you want this newsletter and more great updates in your inbox? Then subscribe free here. (we're going out to 30,000 subscribers!)
Hello, hope you're doing great. This week, everyone is talking about whether AI is getting a bit scary! You may have seen an open letter by tech leaders and computer scientists, including Elon Musk and Steve Wozniak, who are calling for a pause in the development of AI systems that are more advanced than GPT-4, the newest language model behind text generator ChatGPT. An open letter titled "Pause Giant A.I. Experiments," published by the nonprofit Future of Life Institute, has collected over 1,000 signatures from influential entrepreneurs, academics, and investors, urging AI companies to draft a shared set of safety protocols around advanced AI development
The letter highlights the growing concerns over the potential risks associated with the lack of transparency and control in the development of AI. As AI systems become increasingly capable of performing human tasks, there is a fear of future AI systems outsmarting and turning against their human creators. This calls for a more collaborative and responsible approach to the development
What are your thoughts on this issue? Do you think it's important to regulate the development of advanced AI systems? Is this all getting a bit too scary? Or shall we just let the innovation continue If so why?
Let us know in the comments or by replying to this newsletter.
Whats been happening at Digital Women this week?
It's been a busy week for Digital Women! Last Wednesday we hosted our first big conference of the year in Birmingham! We were joined by over 100 women and hosted brilliant experts who discussed everything from adding extra revenue streams to your business to making a career move
Last week we also announced our finalists for the Digital Women Awards, you can see the full finalist list here.
The Digital News Rundup
Social Media
Study Finds Facebook Users Consume More Fake News Than Users of Twitter, Other Social Media Sites
According to a recent study, Facebook users are more likely to consume fake news than users of other social media sites such as Twitter. The study, which analyzed the news consumption habits of over 8,000 adults in the United States, found that Facebook users were more likely to encounter fake news stories and less likely to correctly identify them as fake. The study also found that older users and those with less education were more likely to be exposed to fake news on Facebook.
The study's authors argue that the prevalence of fake news on Facebook is a serious concern, as it can have a significant impact on public opinion and the democratic process. They call for more research and action to address the issue.
Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg Walks the Ramp in Fashion Show
Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg made a surprise appearance on the runway at a recent fashion show in California. Zuckerberg walked the ramp wearing a black hoodie and jeans, much to the surprise and delight of the audience. The show, which was organized by a local charity, aimed to raise awareness and funds for various social causes.
Instagram Now Lets You Bookmark Posts with Friends and Store Them in a Dedicated Space
Instagram has introduced a new feature that allows users to bookmark posts with friends and save them in a dedicated space within the app. The feature, called "Co-Watching," allows users to create collections of posts and videos that they can share and view together with friends. The move is aimed at increasing social interactions and engagement
Meta to Let Users Opt-Out of Some Targeted Ads, but Only in Europe
Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, has announced that it will allow users in Europe to opt-out of some targeted ads. The move comes as part of Meta's efforts to comply with new EU privacy regulations, which give users greater control over their data and how it is used for advertising purposes. However, the opt-out feature will only be available to users in Europe, raising concerns about unequal treatment of users in different regions.
Twitter Removes Tweets Promoting a Trans Day of Vengeance Protest for Inciting Violence
Twitter has removed tweets promoting a trans day of vengeance protest, citing a violation of the platform's policies against inciting violence. The protest, which was scheduled to take place in several cities across the United States, called for violence against cisgender people, prompting concerns about the safety of participants and the wider public. Twitter's move to remove the tweets has been welcomed by many, but has also sparked debate about free speech and the limits of online discourse.
Twitter's Working on a New Way to Tag All Instances of an Image with a Common Description
Twitter is reportedly testing a new feature that will allow users to tag all instances of an image with a common description. This would make it easier for users with visual impairments to understand the content of images shared on the platform. The feature, which is still in the testing phase, has been welcomed by accessibility advocates who have long called for greater inclusivity on social media.
Twitter's VIP List Boosted Tweets for Celebrities, Politicians and Other High-Profile Users
Twitter has been accused of boosting tweets for high-profile users, including celebrities and politicians, as part of a secret VIP program. The program, which was reportedly in operation for several years, allowed selected users to have their tweets promoted to the top of timelines, even if they were not performing well organically. The program has been criticized for creating an unequal playing field and undermining the integrity of the platform.
Elon Musk Puts Twitter Behind Paywall
Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, has announced that he will be putting his Twitter account behind a paywall. Musk, who is known for his controversial and often entertaining tweets, said that the move was aimed at reducing the amount of time he spends on social media and increasing the quality of his interactions. The move has been met with mixed reactions, with some questioning the ethics of putting a social media account behind a paywall and others applauding Musk for taking steps to prioritise his mental health.
Recommended by LinkedIn
NATO Considers Banning TikTok Amid Security Concerns
The North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) is reportedly considering a ban on the use of TikTok by its personnel amid concerns about security risks. The popular video-sharing app has faced criticism over its data collection practices and links to the Chinese government, leading several countries to ban its use by government officials and military personnel. NATO's move to consider a ban follows similar steps taken by other organizations and raises questions about the role of social media in international relations and security.
TikTok is a Symbol of Our Panic About the End of Internet Democracies
In a recent opinion piece, The Guardian explores the rise of TikTok and what it represents in the larger context of the internet and democracy. The article argues that the fear and panic around TikTok and its data collection practices reflect broader concerns about the erosion of privacy, free speech, and democracy online. The article goes on to call for greater public awareness and engagement around these issues and for more action from regulators and policymakers to protect citizens' rights in the digital age.
TikTok Ban Backup Plan? Bytedance-Owned Instagram Rival "Lemon8" Hits the U.S. App Store's Top 10
Following concerns about TikTok's security and links to the Chinese government, TikTok's parent company, Bytedance, has launched a new social media app called "Lemon8" as a potential backup plan. The app, which is similar in design and functionality to Instagram, has already reached the top 10 in the U.S. app store, signaling a possible challenge to Instagram's dominance. While it remains to be seen whether Lemon8 can succeed in a crowded social media market, the move reflects the growing importance of alternative social media platforms and the need for users to have more options.
Web3 / Metaverse
Disney Exits the Metaverse: What It Means for Web3 Marketing
Disney recently announced that it will be shutting down its Metaverse platform, Disney Infinity, which allowed users to create their own games and interact with Disney characters in a virtual world. The move comes as the concept of the metaverse, a virtual universe where users can interact with each other and digital objects, is gaining momentum and attention from marketers. While Disney's exit may be a setback for the metaverse, it also highlights the challenges and limitations of current metaverse technologies and the need for more robust and secure solutions. The article explores the implications of Disney's exit for web3 marketing and the future of the metaverse.
Unstoppable Domains Launches AI-Generated Avatars for Web3 Identity
Unstoppable Domains, a blockchain-based domain name service, has launched a new feature that allows users to create and own AI-generated avatars as part of their web3 identity. The avatars, created using GAN technology, can be used across different web3 platforms and are intended to provide users with a more personalized and secure online identity. The move reflects the growing importance of identity in the web3 ecosystem and the need for better tools to manage and protect digital identities. While the use of AI-generated avatars is still in its early stages, it has the potential to transform how we think about online identity and the role of technology in shaping it.
The Metaverse Hype Crash: The Best Thing to Happen to Web3?
The concept of the metaverse has been gaining momentum in recent months, with more companies and investors getting involved in the space. However, there are also concerns about the hype around the metaverse and whether it is sustainable. This article explores the potential benefits of the metaverse for web3, while also highlighting some of the challenges and limitations of the technology. The author argues that the recent metaverse hype crash could actually be a positive thing for the industry, as it forces companies to focus on building more sustainable and scalable metaverse solutions.
Hong Kong Turns to Japan for Advice After "Mind-Boggling" Web3 Influx
Hong Kong's financial regulators are seeking advice from their Japanese counterparts on how to handle the "mind-boggling" influx of web3 and crypto-related businesses in the city. The move reflects the growing importance of web3 and blockchain technologies in the financial sector, as well as the challenges and opportunities they present for regulators. The article explores the regulatory landscape in Hong Kong and Japan and the potential implications of their collaboration for the future of web3.
Beauty and the Metaverse: L'Oreal Launches Virtual Beauty Experiences on Roblox
L'Oreal, the French cosmetics company, has launched a series of virtual beauty experiences on Roblox, a popular metaverse platform for kids and teens. The experiences allow users to try on virtual makeup and hairstyles and learn about beauty trends in a fun and interactive way. The move reflects the growing interest of beauty brands in the metaverse and their efforts to engage with younger audiences. The article explores the potential of the metaverse for beauty and fashion brands and the challenges they face in creating engaging and relevant experiences.
Maybe Web3 Isn't as Dead as it Would Seem, as Agencies Play with New Data-Generating Models
Despite some recent setbacks and challenges, web3 and blockchain technologies are still attracting interest and investment from agencies and brands. This article explores some of the new data-generating models being developed by agencies and their potential applications in the web3 space. The author argues that while the hype around web3 may have subsided, there is still significant potential for innovation and growth in the industry.
Techstars London Launches UK's First Web3 Cohort in Partnership with Polygon Labs
Techstars London, the global startup accelerator, has launched the UK's first web3 cohort in partnership with Polygon Labs, a leading blockchain scaling platform. The 13-week program is designed to support early-stage startups building innovative solutions using web3 and blockchain technologies. Selected startups will receive funding, mentorship, and access to Polygon's network and resources. The move reflects the growing interest and investment in web3 and blockchain technologies in the UK and the potential of the industry to drive innovation and growth.
AI
AI Poses a Similar Risk to Nuclear Weapons
Historian and broadcaster Dan Snow has warned that artificial intelligence (AI) poses a similar risk to nuclear weapons and must be carefully managed to avoid catastrophic consequences. In a column for The Telegraph, Snow argues that the rapid development of AI technology and its potential for automation and decision-making pose a significant threat to society and global stability. He calls for greater regulation and oversight of AI development and deployment, including the establishment of international agreements similar to those governing nuclear weapons. The article raises important questions about the risks and benefits of AI and its potential impact on society.
The Limitations of Artificial Intelligence and ChatGPT in Understanding the Human Mind
In a commentary piece for The Guardian, philosopher and cognitive scientist Susan Schneider explores the limitations of artificial intelligence (AI) and language models such as ChatGPT in understanding the human mind. She argues that despite advances in AI and natural language processing, these technologies are still limited in their ability to truly understand the complexities of human consciousness, emotions, and experiences. Schneider cautions against the tendency to overestimate the capabilities of AI and emphasises the need for continued research and exploration of the human mind. The article raises important questions about the relationship between AI and human intelligence and the potential for future advancements in the field.
And that's a wrap!
Thanks for reading, and remember to keep shining bright like the star you are! Until... Friday 👋
And. that's a wrap
Lucy (Connect with me)
Founder and Community Lead -Digital Women & SocialDay
Support us? You can download the sponsor deck here.
This newsletter is going out to over 30,500+ people on Linkedin and via our website, are you keen on reaching tens of thousands of engaged people in the digital industry and those running businesses? If so we have sponsorship options available for our events and our newsletter. Please email admin@digitalwomen.live for more information and a copy of the sponsorship deck.
Great roundup of the latest digital trends! It's impressive to see how you keep us informed and engaged in such a fast-paced industry.
dellwellgiftshopnet
1ySigmaslc
Realtor Associate @ Next Trend Realty LLC | HAR REALTOR, IRS Tax Preparer
1yThanks for the updates on, The Digital Women.
Sales Associate at American Airlines
1yGreat opportunity