Month: June 2024
Is AI’s Demand for Energy Really ‘Insatiable’?
Bloomberg and The Washington Post “claim AI power usage is dire,” writes Slashdot reader NoWayNoShapeNoForm. But Ars Technica “begs to disagree with those speculations.”
From Ars Technica’s article:
The high-profile pieces lean heavily on recent projections from Goldman Sachs and the International Energy Agency (IEA) to cast AI’s “insatiable” demand for energy as an almost apocalyptic threat to our power infrastructure. The Post piece even cites anonymous “some [people]” in reporting that “some worry whether there will be enough electricity to meet [the power demands] from any source.” Digging into the best available numbers and projections available, though, it’s hard to see AI’s current and near-future environmental impact in such a dire light… While the headline focus of both Bloomberg and The Washington Post’s recent pieces is on artificial intelligence, the actual numbers and projections cited in both pieces overwhelmingly focus on the energy used by Internet “data centers” as a whole…
Bloomberg asks one source directly “why data centers were suddenly sucking up so much power” and gets back a blunt answer: “It’s AI… It’s 10 to 15 times the amount of electricity.” Unfortunately for Bloomberg, that quote is followed almost immediately by a chart that heavily undercuts the AI alarmism. That chart shows worldwide data center energy usage growing at a remarkably steady pace from about 100 TWh in 2012 to around 350 TWh in 2024. The vast majority of that energy usage growth came before 2022, when the launch of tools like Dall-E and ChatGPT largely set off the industry’s current mania for generative AI. If you squint at Bloomberg’s graph, you can almost see the growth in energy usage slowing down a bit since that momentous year for generative AI.
Ars Technica first cites Dutch researcher Alex de Vries’s estimate that in a few years the AI sector could use between 85 and 134 TWh of power. But another study estimated in 2018 that PC gaming already accounted for 75 TWh of electricity use per year, while “the IEA estimates crypto mining ate up 110 TWh of electricity in 2022.”
More to the point, de Vries’ AI energy estimates are only a small fraction of the 620 to 1,050 TWh that data centers as a whole are projected to use by 2026, according to the IEA’s recent report. The vast majority of all that data center power will still be going to more mundane Internet infrastructure that we all take for granted (and which is not nearly as sexy of a headline bogeyman as “AI”).
The future is also hard to predict, the article concludes. “If customers don’t respond to the hype by actually spending significant money on generative AI at some point, the tech-marketing machine will largely move on, as it did very recently with the metaverse and NFTs…”
Read more of this story at Slashdot.
Bloomberg and The Washington Post “claim AI power usage is dire,” writes Slashdot reader NoWayNoShapeNoForm. But Ars Technica “begs to disagree with those speculations.”
From Ars Technica’s article:
The high-profile pieces lean heavily on recent projections from Goldman Sachs and the International Energy Agency (IEA) to cast AI’s “insatiable” demand for energy as an almost apocalyptic threat to our power infrastructure. The Post piece even cites anonymous “some [people]” in reporting that “some worry whether there will be enough electricity to meet [the power demands] from any source.” Digging into the best available numbers and projections available, though, it’s hard to see AI’s current and near-future environmental impact in such a dire light… While the headline focus of both Bloomberg and The Washington Post’s recent pieces is on artificial intelligence, the actual numbers and projections cited in both pieces overwhelmingly focus on the energy used by Internet “data centers” as a whole…
Bloomberg asks one source directly “why data centers were suddenly sucking up so much power” and gets back a blunt answer: “It’s AI… It’s 10 to 15 times the amount of electricity.” Unfortunately for Bloomberg, that quote is followed almost immediately by a chart that heavily undercuts the AI alarmism. That chart shows worldwide data center energy usage growing at a remarkably steady pace from about 100 TWh in 2012 to around 350 TWh in 2024. The vast majority of that energy usage growth came before 2022, when the launch of tools like Dall-E and ChatGPT largely set off the industry’s current mania for generative AI. If you squint at Bloomberg’s graph, you can almost see the growth in energy usage slowing down a bit since that momentous year for generative AI.
Ars Technica first cites Dutch researcher Alex de Vries’s estimate that in a few years the AI sector could use between 85 and 134 TWh of power. But another study estimated in 2018 that PC gaming already accounted for 75 TWh of electricity use per year, while “the IEA estimates crypto mining ate up 110 TWh of electricity in 2022.”
More to the point, de Vries’ AI energy estimates are only a small fraction of the 620 to 1,050 TWh that data centers as a whole are projected to use by 2026, according to the IEA’s recent report. The vast majority of all that data center power will still be going to more mundane Internet infrastructure that we all take for granted (and which is not nearly as sexy of a headline bogeyman as “AI”).
The future is also hard to predict, the article concludes. “If customers don’t respond to the hype by actually spending significant money on generative AI at some point, the tech-marketing machine will largely move on, as it did very recently with the metaverse and NFTs…”
Read more of this story at Slashdot.
Redbox’s owner files for bankruptcy
Redbox’s parent company Chicken Soup for the Soul Entertainment filed for bankruptcy.
Looks like physical media rental wasn’t a great investment.
The parent company of Redbox, the video rental kiosk often parked inside or outside grocery stores, filed for bankruptcy on June 28. This comes after the company, Chicken Soup for the Soul Entertainment, failed to pay employees, suspended medical benefits, defaulted on loans, and had an order for its vehicles to be repossessed. According to the filing, it has a total of $970 million in debt.
If approved, Chicken Soup for the Soul Entertainment will receive the capital necessary to pay its employees and reinstate medical benefits. Employees haven’t been paid since June 21 and medical benefits halted over a month ago on May 14. Employees took to Reddit to complain about the lack of communication around payment prior to the bankruptcy filing. The company informed its employees of the filing, ensuring that it applied for approval of a debtor in possession loan, reports The Verge.
Additionally, the company owes money to a roster of vendors and studios including big names like Walmart, Walgreens, Universal, Sony, Lionsgate and Warner Bros.
Chicken Soup for the Soul Entertainment acquired Redbox in 2022 putting it in $325 million in debt. It also owns the streaming service Crackle, as well as Screen Media,1091 Pictures, and Sonar Entertainment.
The company has since fallen into financial struggle. It’s been sued more than a dozen times for not meeting payments. Last week it failed to meet a payment to NBCUniversal that was a result of one of those lawsuits. In February NBCUniversal sued the company and the lawsuit was settled with the agreement that Chicken Soup for the Soul Entertainment would pay NBCUniversal $16.7 million in three installments. But after it missed the first payment in May the court ordered it to pay the entire balance.
Kuo: New AirPods to Feature Cameras for Enhanced Spatial Experiences
Apple will launch new AirPods featuring infrared cameras to improve spatial experiences with the Vision Pro headset, according to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.
In a post on Medium, Kuo explained that Apple plans to mass-produce new AirPods with integrated IR camera modules by 2026. These IR cameras will apparently be similar to the iPhone’s Face ID receiver.
The purpose of IR cameras on AirPods is related to Apple Vision Pro and future headsets from the company, enhancing the spatial computing and audio experience. The IR cameras can detect environmental image changes, facilitating a broader range of gestures to improve user interaction. For example, if a user watches a video using Apple Vision Pro and the new AirPods, and turns their head to look in a specific direction, the sound source in that direction can be “emphasized to enhance the spatial audio/computing experience.”
Foxconn is said to be the supplier of the new IR component, with the Taiwanese electronics manufacturer preparing to provide enough parts for about 10 million AirPods initially. It is not clear which AirPods model is likely to get the feature first, but the AirPods Pro may be most likely since they already offer lossless audio exclusively with the Vision Pro.
Related Roundups: AirPods 3, AirPods ProTag: Ming-Chi KuoBuyer’s Guide: AirPods (Don’t Buy), AirPods Pro (Neutral)Related Forum: AirPodsThis article, “Kuo: New AirPods to Feature Cameras for Enhanced Spatial Experiences” first appeared on MacRumors.comDiscuss this article in our forums
Apple will launch new AirPods featuring infrared cameras to improve spatial experiences with the Vision Pro headset, according to Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo.
In a post on Medium, Kuo explained that Apple plans to mass-produce new AirPods with integrated IR camera modules by 2026. These IR cameras will apparently be similar to the iPhone‘s Face ID receiver.
The purpose of IR cameras on AirPods is related to Apple Vision Pro and future headsets from the company, enhancing the spatial computing and audio experience. The IR cameras can detect environmental image changes, facilitating a broader range of gestures to improve user interaction. For example, if a user watches a video using Apple Vision Pro and the new AirPods, and turns their head to look in a specific direction, the sound source in that direction can be “emphasized to enhance the spatial audio/computing experience.”
Foxconn is said to be the supplier of the new IR component, with the Taiwanese electronics manufacturer preparing to provide enough parts for about 10 million AirPods initially. It is not clear which AirPods model is likely to get the feature first, but the AirPods Pro may be most likely since they already offer lossless audio exclusively with the Vision Pro.
This article, “Kuo: New AirPods to Feature Cameras for Enhanced Spatial Experiences” first appeared on MacRumors.com
Discuss this article in our forums
How to Watch Euro 2024: Spain vs. Georgia — Livestream Soccer From Anywhere
La Roja come into the knockout stages as the only team with a 100% record.
La Roja come into the knockout stages as the only team with a 100% record.
Exploring 3 New Cryptocurrencies with High Upside Potential – $BOME, $PEPU, and $CHUANPU
The markets remain at a low point as they anticipate the next stage of the bull market. During this consolidation… Continue reading Exploring 3 New Cryptocurrencies with High Upside Potential – $BOME, $PEPU, and $CHUANPU
The post Exploring 3 New Cryptocurrencies with High Upside Potential – $BOME, $PEPU, and $CHUANPU appeared first on ReadWrite.
The markets remain at a low point as they anticipate the next stage of the bull market.
During this consolidation phase, it is an opportune time to explore new cryptocurrencies that have the potential to achieve returns of 10x to 100x in the future.
One of these is currently in the presale phase, offering investors the chance to get in early at a potentially lower price point before it hits the public market.
BOOK OF MEME (BOME)
BOOK OF MEME (BOME) is a newly established meme coin on the Solana chain that has recently corrected around 50% from its peak.
Over the last 7 days, it has demonstrated notably bullish performance, with a 9% increase in value.
Currently, $BOME holds a market cap of $660 million, and achieving 10x growth would propel it to $7 billion, which is a realistic target. With a circulating supply of 68.9 billion $BOME tokens priced at $0.009, there is potential for the price to reduce decimals in the future.
The minimalistic website of BOOK OF MEME may be off-putting, but from a chart perspective, it has recently entered oversold territory on the RSI, dropping below the 30 RSI threshold.
These levels often reflect human behavior and psychology, indicating periods of extreme fear in the crypto markets. Buying during such fear-driven dips and selling during peaks of greed is a common strategy during bull market cycles.
While a 10x increase may currently seem ambitious, a target of $0.03 per $BOME by the end of the bull market could potentially double or triple its current value.
BOOK OF MEME shows strong on-chain metrics, with robust daily active users on the Solana network, a growing number of holders over the past 14 days, and promising transaction fee statistics, all indicating active user engagement and network utilization.
For those seeking alternative investments, check out our 2024 guide to the best meme coins to buy.
Pepe Unchained (PEPU)
Pepe Unchained is set to launch its own blockchain and block explorer, marking a significant milestone for this new Layer 2 utility meme coin. Currently priced at $0.0081613 per $PEPU, it offers substantial staking rewards, boasting a 1302% APY, which is notably high.
The current presale stage ends in just 24 hours, triggering an immediate price increase. This project centers around Pepe, its main character now unchained within its own layer 2 ecosystem, adding an innovative twist to its tokenomics.
With a maximum supply of 8 billion tokens, Pepe Unchained allocates its tokens across various areas: 20% to presale, 30% to staking rewards, 20% to marketing, 10% to liquidity, 10% to project financing, and 10% to chain inventory.
The project has a clear roadmap focused on establishing itself as a leading meme coin, leveraging the popularity of Pepe-related tokens known for their viral potential.
Despite its meme-centric and seemingly gimmicky nature, Pepe Unchained shows potential. This is evident from the enthusiastic response to its recent $1.5 million presale raise celebration post, which generated significant engagement across social media platforms.
We’ve hit $1.5M! 🎉💸
Pepe’s breaking chains and making gains with his new blockchain! 🐸🚀 pic.twitter.com/Ilbu8KOT9N
— Pepe Unchained (@pepe_unchained) June 30, 2024
Crypto experts and prominent crypto news outlets have also covered the project, further bolstering its credibility for investors. While the current high staking rewards are attractive, they are expected to decrease gradually as liquidity in the staking pool increases.
Overall, Pepe Unchained presents an intriguing opportunity within the meme coin space with the potential for market growth. To take part in the $PEPU token presale, visit pepeunchained.com.
Chuan Pu (CHUANPU)
There’s a new meme coin called Chuan Pu, often humorously referred to as the “Chinese Donald Trump.” This coin has already experienced significant growth but is currently undergoing a correction, making it a potentially favorable stage for accumulation.
The current price is $0.006157, and it boasts a market cap of $6 million. A 10x increase would push its market cap to $65 million, while a 100x increase would propel it to $650 million.
Chuan Pu is themed around the concept of a Chinese version of Donald Trump, tying into election themes and featuring its own cartoon episodes.
Despite its meme nature, it has garnered attention and engagement, particularly through its entertaining content.
Initially based on the Solana blockchain, there are future prospects for expansion onto other chains.
Currently, Chuan Pu is positioned around $0.006, aiming to break through resistance at $0.00742, with potential upcoming listings on platforms like MEXC if market conditions remain favorable after recent market volatility.
If you’re interested in the absolute best initial coin offerings (ICOs) of 2024, explore our comprehensive guide featuring the most promising options.
Related
Apu Apustaja’s Comeback Sparks Price Pump Predictions, as New Pepe-Based Project Surges in Presale, Hits $1 Million Milestone
Can Pepe Make a Comeback? Exploring the Potential of the Newest PEPE Alternative, Pepe Unchained (PEPU)
The post Exploring 3 New Cryptocurrencies with High Upside Potential – $BOME, $PEPU, and $CHUANPU appeared first on ReadWrite.
Apple could announce a Google Gemini deal this fall
Illustration: The Verge
If you’re disappointed that the only AI model that will integrate with Apple devices so far will be ChatGPT, it sounds like you won’t have to wait long for that to change. Apple will announce “at least” one other deal — to add Google Gemini, too — this fall, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman in his Power On newsletter today.
Gemini has been part of the iOS 18 chatbot rumors for as long as OpenAI has. Apple software boss Craig Federighi even hinted at a Google deal shortly after the keynote was over. Anthropic has been mixed up in these rumors as well, and Gurman also suggests Apple could announce a deal with that company at some point, if not this fall. Meta, though, was quickly rejected because its Llama chatbot just isn’t good enough, he writes.
Beyond chatbot integration lies Apple Intelligence, which is only supposed to emerge, initially, in beta form this fall. Apple reportedly wants to make AI an avenue for direct profits, not just as a set of features aimed at moving hardware products. As part of that, Gurman suggests that the company “could eventually” roll out subscription-only Apple Intelligence features.
But it seems like that won’t happen for a while, and although Apple Intelligence is only available for the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max for now, who knows if the version of it that comes first will be enough to drive a big iPhone upgrade cycle. We don’t even know if the features will be good, after all. In the meantime, he points out that Apple will still get at least some AI money when it gets its in-app purchases cut of sign-ups to its AI partners’ chatbot subscriptions.
Third-party AI services might serve as a nice stopgap for the Cupertino company while it slowly rolls out its own generative AI system. For the rest of us, that will mean more choice, even if having the choice, in a lot of ways, just means variations on the theme of algorithmic reconstruction of compressed data (or at least the possibility of entertainingly wrong cooking suggestions).
Illustration: The Verge
If you’re disappointed that the only AI model that will integrate with Apple devices so far will be ChatGPT, it sounds like you won’t have to wait long for that to change. Apple will announce “at least” one other deal — to add Google Gemini, too — this fall, according to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman in his Power On newsletter today.
Gemini has been part of the iOS 18 chatbot rumors for as long as OpenAI has. Apple software boss Craig Federighi even hinted at a Google deal shortly after the keynote was over. Anthropic has been mixed up in these rumors as well, and Gurman also suggests Apple could announce a deal with that company at some point, if not this fall. Meta, though, was quickly rejected because its Llama chatbot just isn’t good enough, he writes.
Beyond chatbot integration lies Apple Intelligence, which is only supposed to emerge, initially, in beta form this fall. Apple reportedly wants to make AI an avenue for direct profits, not just as a set of features aimed at moving hardware products. As part of that, Gurman suggests that the company “could eventually” roll out subscription-only Apple Intelligence features.
But it seems like that won’t happen for a while, and although Apple Intelligence is only available for the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max for now, who knows if the version of it that comes first will be enough to drive a big iPhone upgrade cycle. We don’t even know if the features will be good, after all. In the meantime, he points out that Apple will still get at least some AI money when it gets its in-app purchases cut of sign-ups to its AI partners’ chatbot subscriptions.
Third-party AI services might serve as a nice stopgap for the Cupertino company while it slowly rolls out its own generative AI system. For the rest of us, that will mean more choice, even if having the choice, in a lot of ways, just means variations on the theme of algorithmic reconstruction of compressed data (or at least the possibility of entertainingly wrong cooking suggestions).