The Algorithm
MIT Technology Review
6 stories we have summarised that The Algorithm covered.
Researchers launch platform to track what AI companies actually hide
Anthropic, OpenAI, and other AI firms release only curated data about how people use their systems, obscuring real patterns. AI Observatory, a new public platform, analyzes unfiltered conversations to show what companies' reports leave out, including health advice and harassment. Nearly half of Claude conversations were filtered out by Anthropic's methodology, suggesting major gaps between published usage reports and reality.
The AlgorithmNew AI Observatory launches to track what people actually use AI for
Researchers created a public platform called the AI Observatory that analyzes real conversations people have with popular AI models. The Observatory found that AI models handle far more sensitive topics like health advice, harassment, and sexual content than companies publicly report. AI companies typically highlight work-related uses in their own reports, creating an incomplete picture of how people actually use these tools.
The AlgorithmUS urges allies to avoid China's competing AI initiative
The US sent a draft letter to partner countries discouraging them from joining China's AI initiative. The move reflects US concern about losing influence as countries evaluate different approaches to AI development and governance. The letter targets US allies, suggesting the administration views AI competition with China as a strategic priority.
The AlgorithmMoxie robot companion stops working after company shutdown
Moxie, a robot designed to help neurodivergent children practice social skills, became inoperable when its maker ceased operations and turned off supporting servers. Children who relied on the robot for daily interaction and therapy support lost access without warning or transition period. The incident raises questions about relying on internet-dependent devices for child development when companies may not survive long-term.
The AlgorithmMeta patents facial recognition system for AI glasses
Meta has patented technology that identifies faces in real time through AI glasses and automatically creates video highlight reels from events. The system would recognize attendees at gatherings and extract moments featuring specific people, potentially without their knowledge or consent. Privacy advocates worry the technology could enable surveillance or harassment at public events, hence the critical label 'pervert glasses'.
The AlgorithmIce cream makers adopt AI and robotics for production
Ice cream manufacturers are using artificial intelligence and robotic systems to automate production processes. These technologies enable ice cream makers to create flavor combinations that would be difficult to produce manually. The shift represents a broader adoption of automation in food manufacturing.
The Algorithm