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UAE welcomes framework promoting AI cooperation with US

As outlined in the statement, the two sides intend to closely collaborate to advance safe, secure and trustworthy AI, align regulatory frameworks to strengthen innovation ecosystems…reports Asian Lite News

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has welcomed a framework statement that further cements cooperation between the UAE and US in artificial intelligence and related technologies.

The Common Principles for Cooperation on AI was endorsed today by His Highness Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Ruler of Abu Dhabi and National Security Adviser, and Jake Sullivan, US National Security Advisor, in the White House following His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed’s meeting with US President Joe Biden.

The statement reflects both countries’ shared commitment to develop deeper ties in the field of artificial intelligence, recognising its potential to accelerate economic growth, transform education and healthcare, create jobs, and drive environmental sustainability.

As outlined in the statement, the two sides intend to closely collaborate to advance safe, secure and trustworthy AI, align regulatory frameworks to strengthen innovation ecosystems, promote ethical AI research and development, broaden and deepen cooperation in AI protection and cybersecurity, facilitate opportunities for trusted trade and investment, foster talent development and exchange, promote clean energy for the AI future, and support AI for sustainable development in developing countries.

ALSO READ: UAE-US: United by Innovation and Progress

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-Top News World World News

G7 highlights AI’s impact on cultural sector

The leaders agreed to work together to address the ethical, legal, economic, and social implications of Generative AI and AI-powered tools for the cultural and creative industries…reports Asian Lite News

Alongside the opportunities, significant risks posed by Artificial Intelligence (AI) to the cultural sector were highlighted at the Group of Seven (G7) ministers’ cultural meeting, which concluded in Naples, Italy.

AI is “increasingly permeating the value chains in the cultural and creative sectors and industries, with impacts on the working conditions and the livelihoods of culture professionals and the sustainability of a vibrant and vital cultural ecosystem,” said the declaration on Saturday, which was issued by ministers of culture from the G7 countries during the three-day talks.

The leaders agreed to work together to address the ethical, legal, economic, and social implications of Generative AI and AI-powered tools for the cultural and creative industries, reports Xinhua news agency, quoting Rai News.

The leaders also called on “identification and authentication, where technically feasible, of cultural content entirely or partially generated, modified or altered by AI systems.”

The focus on the challenges related to artificial intelligence has been one of the main areas of focus during Italy’s 2024 presidency of the G7.

According to media reports, a protest against the G7 cultural meeting occurred Saturday morning in central Naples. Around fifty demonstrators marched, rolling out a red carpet as a symbolic critique of the “political showcase” occurring.

Google unveils $120m ‘Global AI Opportunity Fund’

 Alphabet and Google CEO Sundar Pichai has announced a $120 million ‘Global AI Opportunity Fund’ at the UN Summit of the Future in the US.

Pichai said that the initiative will invest “one hundred and twenty million dollars to make AI education and training available in communities around the world. We’re providing this in local languages, in partnership with nonprofits and NGOs”.

Leaders from around the world have gathered for the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York — including the first ever “Summit of the Future”.

Speaking at he event, Pichai said that “growing up in Chennai, India, with my family, the arrival of each new technology improved our lives in meaningful ways.”

“The technology that changed my life the most was the computer. I didn’t have much access to one growing up. When I came to graduate school in the US, there were labs full of machines I could use anytime I wanted — it was mind blowing. Access to computing inspired me to pursue a career where I could bring technology to more people,” he mentioned.

Today, 15 of Google products serve more than half a billion people and businesses each. And six of them – such as Search, Maps and Drive – each serve more than 2 billion.

Pichai said that the company has been investing in AI research, tools, and infrastructure for two decades.

“Using AI, in just the last year, we have added 110 new languages to Google Translate, spoken by half a billion people around the world. That brings our total to 246 languages, and we’re working toward 1,000 of the world’s most spoken languages,” informed the Google CEO.

Some studies show that AI could boost global labor productivity by 1.4 percentage points, and increase global GDP by 7 per cent, within the next decade.

For example, AI is helping improve operations and logistics in emerging markets, where connectivity, infrastructure and traffic congestion are big challenges.

Pichai said that AI must be developed, deployed, and used responsibly, from the start.

“We’re guided by our AI Principles, which we published back in 2018. And we work with others across the industry, academia, the UN, and governments in efforts like the Frontier Model Forum, the OECD, and the G7 Hiroshima Process,” he said.

ALSO READ: UAE-US: United by Innovation and Progress

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Business Economy Tech Lite

Microsoft Revives Nuclear Plant to Fuel AI

The agreement aimed to feed the growing energy needs of Microsoft’s artificial intelligence (AI) operations while restarting the infamous Pennsylvania facility, the site of the worst nuclear accident in US history…reports Asian Lite News

Microsoft and Constellation Energy announced a groundbreaking deal to reopen the partially melted-down Three Mile Island nuclear plant, with the tech giant purchasing all the power for 20 years after the restart.

The deal marked the first time a decommissioned US nuclear plant had been brought back into service and the first time a commercial nuclear power plant’s entire output had been allocated to one customer, Xinhua news agency reported.

The agreement aimed to feed the growing energy needs of Microsoft’s artificial intelligence (AI) operations while restarting the infamous Pennsylvania facility, the site of the worst nuclear accident in US history.

Constellation Energy, the plant’s owner, planned to restart Three Mile Island Unit 1 by 2028 at a cost of about $1.6 billion. The unit sits adjacent to the reactor that suffered a partial meltdown in 1979, an event that sent the nation into panic and dealt a severe blow to the nuclear industry.

“The nuclear power plant never should have been allowed to shut down,” said Joseph Dominguez, chief executive of Constellation, in a press release. He added that the nuclear plant would produce as much clean energy as all the renewables built in Pennsylvania over the last 30 years.

The restarted facility would provide Microsoft with 835 megawatts of electricity, equivalent to powering about 800,000 homes.

According to the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission, on March 28, 1979, the Unit 2 reactor core at the Three Mile Island plant partially melted down when equipment malfunctions, compounded by human operator errors, caused a water pump failure that resulted in a loss of coolant to the reactor.

The partial meltdown led to the release of radioactive gases and iodine into the environment, though no deaths or injuries were directly linked to the incident. Unit 2 remains sealed, with its highly radioactive core encased in concrete.

The revival of Three Mile Island is part of a broader trend of tech companies seeking reliable, zero-emissions power sources to support their expanding data centres and AI technologies.

However, Microsoft’s plan has faced significant regulatory hurdles and public scepticism. Constellation must clear intensive safety inspections from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, which has never before authorized the reopening of a nuclear plant. The company expects the review process to be completed by 2027.

The deal also raised questions about the use of federal subsidies, as the project relies heavily on tax breaks earmarked for nuclear power in the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act. Critics argued that using public funds to benefit a single private company may be inappropriate.

Social media reactions to the news were mixed.

One Washington Post’s website commenter sarcastically suggested, “OK, as long as the waste is sent to Microsoft HQ in Redmond, WA.”

Another user on The Verge expressed concerns about the broader implications: “The potential power demand is looking to be so large — it will delay the transition to carbon-free energy (here in the US) and not by a little bit… Seems like a law saying all electricity for AI and Crypto farms in the US has to be carbon-free is in order.”

Some community leaders welcomed the potential economic revival, with a study funded by the Pennsylvania Building and Construction Trades Council projecting the creation of 3,400 jobs and $3 billion in state and federal taxes.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro expressed support, saying that the plant will “safely utilise existing infrastructure to sustain and expand nuclear power in the Commonwealth while creating thousands of energy jobs,” said a Constellation press release.

However, nuclear safety advocates have expressed alarm.

Henry Sokolski, a former deputy for nonproliferation policy at the Pentagon, criticised the use of public subsidies, telling the Washington Post, “Microsoft says it will buy all of the nuclear electricity from Three Mile Island, but it wants rate and taxpayers to pick up the tab to refurbish the plant.”

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Columns Science Technology

AI Revolutionises Industries: From Education, Finance to Warfare and Gaming

From its early days as a mere academic curiosity to its current status as a powerhouse of innovation, AI has undergone significant transformations, shaping the world as we know it, writes Chetanya Mundachali

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has come a long way since its inception, transforming from a fledgling concept to a revolutionary technology that permeates every aspect of our lives. From its early days as a mere academic curiosity to its current status as a powerhouse of innovation, AI has undergone significant transformations, shaping the world as we know it. Pioneers like Alan Turing, Marvin Minsky, and Frank Rosenblatt laid the groundwork for AI’s future advancements that had an impact on the world as we see today. Following are the various sectors where AI has brought in significant changes:

AI in Education

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the education sector, enhancing the learning experience, and improving outcomes. AI’s applications in education range from personalized learning to intelligent tutoring systems. 

AI integration enhances student engagement, improves learning outcomes, increases accessibility, reduces teacher workload, and provides personalized learning experiences.

Challenges and Future Directions

While AI transforms education, challenges remain, including data privacy, equity, bias, and teacher training. Examples of AI-powered educational tools include Carnegie Learning’s Cognitive Tutor, DreamBox Learning’s Math Platform, Coursera’s AI-driven Course Recommendations, IBM’s Watson Education, and Google’s Classroom and Expeditions. By embracing AI, educators can create a more inclusive, effective, and inspiring learning environment.

Personalized Learning Paths: Recommending customized learning routes based on students’ strengths and weaknesses. This is very important since all students from the school to the university level have varied potential with strengths and weaknesses. AI can measure IQ learning curves and can potentially come up with specific digital learning tools to improve learning. 

For example, AI-powered learning tools can help and enhance the performance of students with low aptitude for mathematics and similar quantitative subjects

AI in Cryptocurrency and Stock Market

AI has revolutionized stock market predictions, offering tangible results and a decisive edge in the financial landscape. AI-based systems accurately predict stock prices, executing trades within milliseconds, and reducing human bias. AI models provide objective perspectives, free from cognitive biases and human emotions, leading to optimal investment decisions.

WorldCoin by Sam Altman

AI’s predictive capabilities also enhance market analysis, risk management, and portfolio optimization. Natural Language Processing (NLP) algorithms gauge market sentiment trends, providing traders with valuable insights. AI-powered bots assist users with stock trading queries, streamlining the investment process. AI-powered bots assist users with stock trading-related tasks and queries, quickly understanding and responding to requests. By leveraging AI, the stock market experiences improved efficiency, accuracy, and customer satisfaction.

Enhanced Security and Fraud Detection

The application of Artificial Intelligence in the cryptocurrency market has greatly enhanced security measures. Structurally, AI systems monitor transaction data tendencies and identify potentially fraudulent activities. Despite increasing threats from hackers, such as the ‘WinX’ crypto defraudation by Korean hackers, AI protects and prevents security risks.

The integration of AI in cryptocurrency is a game-changer, offering unparalleled opportunities and challenges. From enhanced market analysis and automated trading to advanced security measures and predictive maintenance, Artificial Intelligence has reshaped the crypto market.

AI in Finance

AI-based high-frequency trading accurately predicts stock prices, executing trades within milliseconds and capitalizing on minuscule price discrepancies. AI models provide objective perspectives, free from cognitive biases and human emotions, leading to optimal investment decisions.

AI offers personalized financial recommendations, considering individual preferences, financial goals, and risk tolerance. AI models analyze historical market data and volatility, adjusting portfolios in real-time to align with changing market conditions and suggesting diversification strategies to mitigate potential risk.

Warfare and Defence

The significance of AI in modern warfare is growing rapidly. The Responsible Use Of Artificial Intelligence In The Military Domain (REAIM) conference in Seoul highlighted the need for responsible AI deployment. AI applications in warfare include autonomous weapons systems, predictive maintenance, intelligence gathering, cyber warfare, and command and control.

Israeli forces have utilized AI-powered programs such as ”Lavender” and ”The Gospel” to detect enemy movements and monitor enemy territory using AI-powered drones. AI-enhanced sensors improve battlefield awareness, and AI-driven tools detect and respond to cyber threats. Military experts have opined that AI will be instrumental in creating ‘super soldiers’ or military robots in future.

Revolutionising the Gaming Industry

AI has already transformed the gaming industry, with remastering old games using AI being a notable trend. AI algorithms enhance graphics, upscale textures, and improve lighting. AI generates new textures based on original game assets and recreates 3D models from 2D assets.

Famous remastered games using AI include GTA San Andreas (Definitive Edition), Resident Evil series, and Call of Duty series.

As AI continues to expand into new sectors, it drives innovation, creates new opportunities, and demands specialized skills. The responsible development and deployment of AI remain crucial across industries.

Accelerating Human Progress and Growth

The adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to accelerate, fostering innovative opportunities and skills. As the culmination of human intelligence and potential, AI relentlessly reshapes the world. AI’s pervasive integration across industries expedites workflows, boosting efficiency and productivity. This surge in AI adoption has sparked unprecedented demand for AI-specialized professionals, fueling a significant expansion in the AI job market. In response, esteemed universities worldwide have introduced cutting-edge AI courses, equipping the next generation with the expertise to harness AI’s transformative power.

As AI assumes a pivotal role in driving human progress, its potential to revolutionize the world becomes increasingly evident. By embracing AI’s limitless possibilities, we can propel societal advancement, redefining the future of various industries and disciplines in the world of tomorrow. Artificial Intelligence has proven itself to be the driving force behind technological advancements and global progress in the 21st century.

ALSO READ: Starling Bank warns of AI voice cloning scams  

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Business Economy India News

Major Job Demand in India by 2027

Expected to become a $100 billion industry by 2030, the expansion is poised to generate approximately 1 million global jobs by 2025–2026, aligning with India’s broader economic and industrial growth objectives…reports Asian Lite News

As India embarks on its ambitious semiconductor journey, the country will require 2.5 lakh-3 lakh skilled professionals by 2027 across Research and Development (R&D), design, manufacturing and advanced packaging domains, a report showed on Monday.

De-risking initiatives by the world’s leading electronic manufacturers, coupled with targeted government initiatives and India’s talent pool, have led the country to occupy a key position in the global semiconductor manufacturing space, according to the report by TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship.

Expected to become a $100 billion industry by 2030, the expansion is poised to generate approximately 1 million global jobs by 2025–2026, aligning with India’s broader economic and industrial growth objectives.

The Electronics Sector Skill Council (ESSC) currently offers over 35 apprenticeship courses under the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) scheme to address skill shortages at various levels of entry-level work.

To address this gap, the TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship is actively collaborating with academia, government bodies, and industry leaders.

Ramesh Alluri Reddy, CEO of TeamLease Degree Apprenticeship, emphasised upon the need to increase employment in India, especially in light of the $15 billion investment in three semiconductor plants.

This investment results from the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme.

“Advancements in AI-driven technologies are pushing India towards higher-value activities in the semiconductor industry. AI-powered chip design and smart manufacturing are creating a demand for professionals skilled in artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT) and 5G,” said Reddy.

Building an ecosystem for higher value creation activities and cultivating a competent workforce through degree apprenticeships and training programmes is crucial to establish India as a significant player, the report mentioned.

Meanwhile, India’s emerging sectors like renewable energy and semiconductors are expected to make rapid advances on the back of the recent initiatives by the government, according to the RBI’s annual report released on Thursday.

The interim Union Budget 2024-25, with an allocation of ₹6,903 crore for semiconductor and display fabs, would contribute to making India a global hub for chip and electronics manufacturing, the report states.

Investments under the production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme are likely to gain further momentum going forward. These factors are expected to create new employment opportunities, improve labour incomes and strengthen domestic demand. Taking into account these factors, real GDP growth for 2024-25 is projected at 7.0 per cent, the report states.

The passage of ‘The Anusandhan National Research Foundation Bill, 2023’, has paved the way for establishing the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (NRF), which would provide a boost to research and innovation in basic science, healthcare, and humanities.

Furthermore, the National Quantum Mission (NQM), approved at a total cost of around ₹6,000 crore (2023-24 to 2030-31), would scale up scientific and industrial research and development (R&D) and innovative ecosystem in quantum technology (QT). It would propel national priorities like Digital India, Make in India, Skill India and Stand-up India, Start-up India, Self-reliant India and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

All these initiatives, along with government-led investment in the infrastructure sector and increasing adoption of digital technologies, are likely to boost productivity and potential growth in the medium term, the report states.

ALSO READ: Tech industry hails Modi 3.0

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-Top News Technology World News

Warren Buffett compares AI with nukes

Buffett shared a personal experience where he encountered an AI-generated image and voice capable of deceiving others by using his identity….reports Asian Lite News

Warren Buffett, renowned investor and chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, shared his concerns about the potential impact of generative AI (Artificial Intelligence) during the company’s annual meeting.

He said, “I don’t know anything about AI, but that doesn’t mean I deny its existence or importance or anything of the sort.”

Despite acknowledging the importance of technological advances, particularly in AI, Buffett admitted to having limited knowledge on the subject. He drew parallels between AI and the development of nuclear weapons, describing both as powerful entities that have been unleashed with uncertain consequences.

He said, “Last year I said that we let a genie out of the bottle, when we developed nuclear weapons and that genie has been doing some terrible things lately and the power of that genie is would you know scares the hell out of me and under that I don’t know way to get the genie back in the bottle and AI is somewhat similar. It’s out. It’s part way out of the bottle and it’s enormously important and it’s going to be done by somebody”.

Buffett shared a personal experience where he encountered an AI-generated image and voice capable of deceiving others by using his identity.

artificial intelligence.(photo:Pixabay.com)

“I had one experience that does make me a little nervous and I’ll just explain it that very recently I saw an image in front of my eyes on the screen and it was me and it was my voice and wearing the kind of clothes I wear, and my wife or my daughter wouldn’t have been able to detect any difference and I was delivering a message that no way came from me so it when you think of the potential for scamming people if you can reproduce images that I can’t even tell,” he said.

Reflecting on historical events, Buffett drew comparisons between the decision to test nuclear weapons during World War II and the current advancement of AI technology.

He referenced the cautionary warnings of scientists like Edmund Teller, who raised concerns about the potential catastrophic consequences of nuclear testing. Similarly, Buffett expressed uncertainty about the long-term societal implications of AI, cautioning against its unchecked proliferation.

“I’m certainly not the person that can evaluate that and I probably wouldn’t have been the person that could have evaluated during World War Two whether we tested the 20000 ton bomb that we felt was absolutely necessary for the United States and would actually save lives in the long run. But where we also had Edmund Teller I think it was it was on a parallel with Einstein in terms of saying you may with this test ignite the atmosphere in such a way that civilization doesn’t continue and we decided to let the gene of the bottle and it accomplished the immediate objective but whether it’s going to change the future society we will find out later now,” said Buffett.

While acknowledging the potential benefits of AI, Buffett emphasized the need for careful consideration and evaluation of its impact on society. He stressed the importance of regulatory oversight and responsible use of AI technology to mitigate potential risks and ensure positive outcomes for humanity. (ANI)

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Business Economy Tech Lite

Samsung’s Bold Bet on AI TV

Samsung is optimistic about the TV business in 2024, citing increased demand for premium TVs from MZ consumers….reports Asian Lite News

Samsung on Wednesday said that it is targeting Rs 10,000 crore revenue from its Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered Neo QLED, OLED TV business in India.

Samsung ended 2023 with a 21 per cent volume market share and this year it is looking to further consolidate its leadership with the launch of AI TVs, the company said.

“For the first time, we have a very clear twin strategy on premium, the highest or the largest range as far as the consumer is concerned and with that, we are also looking at targeting unprecedented Rs 10,000 crore revenue in 2024,” said Mohandeep Singh, Senior VP, Visual Display Business, Samsung India.

The television market in India has been slow, with Counterpoint Research reporting a 16 per cent drop in shipments last year.

However, Samsung is optimistic about the TV business in 2024, citing increased demand for premium TVs from MZ consumers.

As per analysts, no TV brand in the country has achieved the Rs 10,000 crore revenue milestone before.

Samsung has launched its ultra-premium Neo QLED 8K, Neo QLED 4K and OLED TVs in the country to consolidate its leadership in the TV business.

According to the company, its new range of premium TVs is designed to boost consumers’ home entertainment experience with powerful, AI-driven solutions.

Meanwhile, Samsung on Wednesday said that it has developed the industry’s first low-power double data rate 5X (LPDDR5X) DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) chip, a memory solution tailored for artificial intelligence (AI) applications.

The new chip supports the industry’s highest performance of up to 10.7 gigabits-per-second (Gbps), improving performance by over 25 per cent and capacity by more than 30 per cent compared with the previous generation, according to the company.

Low-power, high-performance LPDDR chips are playing a growing role in the rapidly expanding market for on-device AI, where AI runs on the device itself, reports Yonhap News Agency.

As per Samsung, its latest LPDDR5X products were leveraged with 12 nanometer-class process technology to achieve the smallest chip size among existing LPDDR chips, helping the company solidify its technological leadership in the low-power DRAM market.

“Samsung will continue to innovate and deliver optimised products for the upcoming on-device AI era through close collaboration with customers,” the company said.

Mass production of the LPDDR5X is scheduled to begin by the second half of the year, following verification by providers of mobile application processors and mobile devices, the company mentioned.

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Arab News Dubai Technology

DEWA’s Commitment to Customer Experience, Sustainability, and Service Excellence

DEWA provides many digital services and smart tools to help customers better understand and manage their electricity and water consumption…reports Asian Lite News

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is dedicated to enhancing the customer experience through the adoption of digital solutions and AI across its services and operations. With a focus on providing proactive, advanced, and seamlessly integrated digital services, DEWA aims to surpass customer expectations. Additionally, DEWA is deeply committed to sustainability, actively working to reduce its carbon footprint. To ensure service excellence, DEWA implements the ‘Services 360’ policy, which involves analyzing and measuring service maturity levels over a three-year plan (2023-2025), aligning with the master plan of the General Secretariat of the Executive Council of Dubai Government.

Implementing the ‘Services 360’ approach has led to tangible results: service automation reached 100%, self-services that do not require physical presence reached 100%, digital adoption of DEWA’s services reached 99.2%, customer happiness reached 98.3%, and service quality reached 95%. In 2023, DEWA’s digital services achieved savings of AED 470 million for customers and AED 35 million for DEWA, in addition to avoiding 41,470 tonnes of carbon emissions.

“In line with our ongoing efforts to serve customers and make them happier, we are keen to provide innovative digital services that allow customers to conduct their transactions anytime, anywhere. This saves their time and efforts and supports DEWA’s strategy for sustainability and environmental protection by reducing the consumption of natural resources. DEWA has achieved notable success in implementing the ‘Services 360’ approach. In the first phase of the implementation, 15 out of 22 services met all standards, exceeding 300% of the targets of the first phase for 2023. The ‘Services 360’ policy provides a roadmap and work plan for government departments in Dubai to provide seamless, proactive, and integrated services that focus on the customers, meet their needs, and enhance their experience in receiving the services, supporting the ‘one government’ concept,” said HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA.

Digital services and smart tools

DEWA provides many digital services and smart tools to help customers better understand and manage their electricity and water consumption. DEWA’s ‘Smart Living’ dashboard enables customers to monitor their daily, monthly, and yearly consumption; ‘My Sustainable Living Programme’ allows them to compare their consumption with similar highly efficient homes and provides customised tips to manage their consumption efficiently; ‘Away Mode’ allows customers to receive consumption reports when they are not at home; and the ‘Consumption Assessment Tool’ provides a detailed report after filling out the consumption assessment. In addition, DEWA provides a wide range of special offers and discounts to its customers through the DEWA Store, in collaboration with many public and private sector companies. The offers encourage customers to adopt a smart and sustainable lifestyle and help transform their houses into smart homes.

‘Services 360’ policy

The ‘Services 360’ policy focuses on eight main principles that unify work streams in providing services across government entities. The principles include a digital-first experience based on the provision of digital and real-time services, as well as adopting a digital identity (UAE Pass) as a unified entry system, while providing full support to the customer. They also include proactive services that enhance communication with customers to anticipate their needs for the services and respond accordingly, ultimately reducing the efforts made by the customers. Additionally, the policy entails an integrated data and services system that minimises data requirements from the customer and facilitates services by connecting databases among government entities, as well as unified and customised channels built based on the customer’s preference and made available 24/7.

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-Top News INDIA 2024 Technology

India Urges Digital Giants to Fix Platforms After Microsoft Warning

The Central government has taken a tough stand at Artificial Intelligence-generated content, deepfakes ahead of polls, reports Asian Lite News

 As Microsoft warned India about China’s plan to create and amplify AI-generated content to “benefit its interests” amid the seven-phase elections starting April 19, the Centre has come down heavily on global digital companies, asking them to fix their platforms as part of a new advisory around AI and its potential misuse during polls.

With major elections taking place around the world this year, particularly in India, South Korea and the US: “We assess that China will, at a minimum, create and amplify AI-generated content to benefit its interests,” according to Clint Watts, General Manager, Microsoft Threat Analysis Center.

According to exposure management company Tenable, misinformation spread through AI-generated deepfakes and fake content are the biggest threat to the upcoming polls.

“The biggest threats to the 2024 Lok Sabha elections are misinformation and disinformation as part of influence operations conducted by malicious actors against the electorate,” Satnam Narang, Senior Staff Research Engineer, Tenable, told IANS recently.

Alarmed at AI’s potential misuse, the Centre last month said that social media intermediaries “must not permit any bias or discrimination or threaten the integrity of the electoral process.”

School students create a ‘rangoli’ depicting Electronic Voting Machines (EVM) to raise awareness among people to vote in the upcoming general elections, in Chennai on Thursday, March 28, 2024. (Photo: IANS/R. Parthibhan)

A new IT Ministry advisory now specifically deals with AI, which says that digital platforms have to take full accountability and cannot escape by saying that these AI models are in the “under-testing phase.”

“It is reiterated that non-compliance to the provisions of the IT Act and/or IT Rules would result in potential penal consequences to the intermediaries or platforms or its users when identified, including but not limited to prosecution under IT Act and several other statutes of the criminal code,” according to the advisory.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a conversation with Microsoft Co-founder Bill Gates late last month, also expressed concerns about deepfakes in a democratic country like ours.

“I have engaged with leading minds on AI and its risks. I suggested that we should start with clear watermarks on AI-generated content to prevent misinformation. Proper sources of AI-generated content should also be mentioned,” PM Modi emphasised.

“Someone can even misuse my voice to deceive people and such a deepfake can trigger widespread uproar. We need to think about creating robust dos and don’ts on deepfakes,” the Prime Minister told the billionaire philanthropist.

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Arab News Technology UAE News

New Study Reveals AI’s Transformative Impact on Weather Prediction

Trends Research and Advisory’s new study, ‘AI Skies: Transforming Weather Prediction and Climate Awareness,’ explores AI’s role in significantly enhancing weather forecasting accuracy…. reports Asian Lite News

Trends Research and Advisory has launched a fresh study titled ‘AI Skies: Revolutionizing Weather Prediction and Climate Awareness.’ This research investigates AI’s impact on weather forecasting, demonstrating a remarkable level of precision. Conducted by Noor Al Mazrouei, Head of the AI and Advanced Technology Program at Trends, the study reveals how AI analyzes vast datasets from satellites and weather stations to predict extreme weather events more accurately, thereby enhancing disaster preparedness and risk management.

The advent of AI applications in meteorology has ushered in a new era of personalised weather services, directly catering to the varying needs of different users and industries.

The study highlighted the societal benefits of AI in weather forecasting, such as enhancing the accuracy of weather forecasts, which are essential for sound planning and decision-making across different sectors of society.

The study discussed how artificial intelligence has become a pivotal tool for simplifying and interpreting complex climate data, enabling decision-makers and scientists to make better decisions. It explains the potential of artificial intelligence in raising public awareness of climate change through platforms that translate complex climate data into an easy-to-understand format.

The study concluded that AI not only improves weather forecasting, but fundamentally changes the way we understand and address climate challenge.

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