Amazon's Snags Covariant Brains in Reverse Acquihire Coup of Robotic Startup

Tech Insights AI 0010, Tuesday 3rd September 2024

📰AI NEWS RUNDOWN

• Amazon's Snags Covariant Brains in Reverse Acquihire Coup of Robotic Startup

• Samsung's Strategic Leap: Acquires Sonio to Revolutionize Prenatal Ultrasound with AI

• Digital Eavesdropping for Ads: CMG's 'Active Listening' Sparks Privacy Concerns

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1.Amazon's Snags Covariant Brains in Reverse Acquihire Coup of Robotic Startup

The Deal : Amazon has secured a licensing deal with Covariant, gaining access to its advanced robotic models to enhance the learning and adaptability of its robot fleet, promising improved safety and efficiency in warehouses.

Talent Grab : includes bringing onboard Covariant's co-founders Pieter Abbeel, Peter Chen, and Rocky Duan, along with a quarter of the startup's workforce.These AI and robotics experts will join Amazon's Fulfillment Technologies & Robotics Team, injecting fresh innovation into the company's automation efforts.

The Bigger PictureThis move underscores Amazon's commitment to staying at the forefront of AI and robotics in e-commerce. By combining Covariant's expertise with its vast operational experience

This highlights Amazon's commitment to leading in AI and robotics, setting new standards in warehouse automation and customer service.

2.Samsung's Strategic Leap: Acquires Sonio to Revolutionize Prenatal Ultrasound with AI

Samsung Medison, a prominent player in the medical equipment industry and an affiliate of Samsung Electronics, has announced its acquisition of Sonio SAS, a French company specializing in AI-powered fetal ultrasound software.

This acquisition aims to enhance Samsung's position in the medical devices sector by integrating Sonio's advanced AI technology into its ultrasound systems. Sonio's flagship product, Sonio Detect, utilizes deep learning to improve real-time image quality and clinical accuracy, promising significant advancements in prenatal care.

The acquisition will allow Sonio to operate independently while leveraging Samsung's global reach to accelerate innovation in prenatal ultrasound technology. The acquisition was approved by French Ministry of the Economy and Finance Approval.

Both companies see this partnership as a pivotal opportunity to transform maternal care, combining Samsung Medison's established ultrasound business with Sonio's cutting-edge AI expertise.

3.Digital Eavesdropping for Ads: CMG's 'Active Listening' Sparks Privacy Concerns

In a startling revelation, Cox Media Group (CMG) has claimed to possess technology capable of listening to consumers' ambient conversations through smartphones and smart devices for targeted advertising. This controversial capability, dubbed "Active Listening," purportedly uses AI to analyze real-time conversations and identify potential customers based on their casual discussions.

The Technology

CMG's marketing materials suggest that Active Listening can capture conversations about various topics, from car leases to home repairs, and use this information to deliver personalized ads. The company claims this technology is "available today" and offers it within specific geographic radii.

Privacy Concerns

This development has raised significant privacy concerns, echoing long-standing public fears about devices eavesdropping for advertising purposes. While CMG asserts the practice is legal due to user consent in terms and conditions, experts question the ethical implications and potential violations of wiretapping laws.

Industry Response

Major tech companies like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft, listed as CMG partners, have distanced themselves from or denied involvement in such practices. Google emphasized Android's restrictions on background audio collection, while Amazon stated that such capabilities are not possible with Echo devices.

Broader Implications

This revelation highlights the ongoing debate about data privacy and the extent of digital surveillance in advertising. It underscores the need for greater transparency in how companies collect and use personal data, potentially leading to calls for stricter regulations and improved consumer protections.

As this story develops, it's likely to fuel further discussions about the balance between technological innovation in advertising and individual privacy rights.

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