• WWW.ENGADGET.COM
    Samsung's cute Ballie robot arrives this summer with Google Gemini in tow
    Samsung's Ballie will go on sale in the US and South Korea this summer, the company announced today. What's more, through a partnership with Google Cloud, the diminutive robot will ship with a Gemini AI model.  Samsung didn't state the specific system that powers Ballie, but in combination with the company's own proprietary language models, it says the robot has multimodal capabilities, meaning Ballie can process voice, audio and visual data from its sensors. According to Samsung, Ballie can also manage your smart home devices and even offer health and styling recommendations, if you're inclined to seek that type of advice from a robot.     Samsung has yet to announce pricing for Ballie, though with the uncertainty around the Trump administration's recently announced tariffs, you can't blame Samsung, can you? The company first demoed Ballie in 2020. The robot has gone through a few iterations since the then, with the version you see above first demoed at CES 2024. Samsung said then Ballie would arrive sometime in 2024, but last year came and went without the robot hitting store shelves. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/samsungs-cute-ballie-robot-arrives-this-summer-with-google-gemini-in-tow-133658886.html?src=rss
    0 التعليقات 0 المشاركات 73 مشاهدة
  • WWW.TECHRADAR.COM
    US regulator OCC notifies Congress of major security breach
    Around 150,000 emails were accessed which included plenty of sensitive information.
    0 التعليقات 0 المشاركات 94 مشاهدة
  • WWW.FASTCOMPANY.COM
    Is Christmas canceled? China seems to think so, blaming Trump’s tariffs
    Chinese producers of plastic Christmas trees and other festive decorations say orders from U.S. clients, which are crucial for their business, should have started to come in by now. But because of surging import tariffs, they haven’t. U.S. President Donald Trump has raised tariffs on Chinese imports by 104% so far this year in an escalating trade war that threatens great pain for the world’s largest exporter of manufactured goods. U.S. retailers are almost completely reliant on China for Christmas decorations, where they source 87% of such goods—worth roughly $4 billion. Chinese factories are also heavily dependent on the U.S. market, where they sell half of what they make. If Americans want new Christmas decorations this year, they will have to pay a lot more for them—if they can find them on the shelves at all. “So far this year, none of my American customers have placed any orders,” said Qun Ying, who runs an artificial Christmas tree factory in the eastern city of Jinhua. “Of course it’s about the tariffs. By mid-April all the orders are normally finalized, but right now . . . it’s hard to know if any orders are coming. Maybe American customers won’t buy anything this year.” In Shaoxing, some 160 kilometres (100 miles) away from Jinhua, factory owner Liu Song was confident his business can cope by trying to sell more to Russia, Europe, and Southeast Asia, which together take 75% of his products already. “We are worried that U.S. orders will come down,” he said, while adding: “We will definitely win this trade war.” Jessica Guo, who also manages a Christmas tree factory in Jinhua, said she was just notified by an important U.S. customer that it is pausing a 3 million yuan ($408,191) order for which she had already spent 400,000 yuan on materials. She expects that order will soon be cancelled and worries about her business. “My peers and I rely on U.S. orders to survive,” Guo said. “This will inevitably affect a lot of people. No one can escape.” Economists say the trade war will shave 1–2 percentage points off Chinese economic growth this year, exacerbate industrial overcapacity issues, threaten jobs, and further fuel deflationary forces. As Chinese exporters sell less to the U.S., which last year bought goods worth more than $400 billion, they will have to compete ever more intensely on prices in other markets. This will hit their already-thin profit margins and force them to cut costs at home, economists say. Guo’s 10,800-square metre (116,250-square foot) factory employs 140 people regularly, but that number can hit 200 in peak production season over the summer. This year she does not expect to need extra workers. “Losing the U.S. market will definitely impact many people’s jobs,” said Guo. Domestic demand for Christmas decorations in China is insignificant, she added. SILENT NIGHTS Sourcing from countries other than China will be difficult. The second-biggest exporter of Christmas decorations to the U.S. is Cambodia, which makes 5.5% of the goods, and last week Trump imposed a 49% tariff on Cambodian imports. Shifting production to the U.S., one of Trump’s goals in imposing tariffs on China and almost every other country in the world, is not feasible, says Jami Warner, executive director of the American Christmas Tree Association. “They certainly can’t be made in the United States. There’s no manufacturing, the technology isn’t here, the labour market isn’t here,” said Warner. Warner, who expects significant, but hard to estimate, price increases, says 80% of all Christmas trees displayed in the U.S. are artificial. The pre-lit trees, which is most of them, are only made in China. She decries her industry becoming collateral damage in a geopolitical fight. “What our members make and sell are not strategic products,” said Warner. “We’re not threatening. We’re a happy, joyful business. We’d like to stay in that joyful business.” ($1 = 7.3499 Chinese yuan renminbi) (This story has been refiled to change additional reporting credit to Xiaoyu Yin from Xihao Jiang) —Andrew Silver and Casey Hall, Reuters
    0 التعليقات 0 المشاركات 96 مشاهدة
  • WWW.CORE77.COM
    "A New Category of Personal Mobility:" Robot Horses
    As it stands, Kawasaki's off-road bikes can traverse challenging trails. But the company reckons that tackling truly gnarly terrain requires something beyond wheels. They're thus developing this CORLEO concept, which is essentially a headless, rideable robot horse that can carry two.The company is hailing it as a "new category of personal mobility" and says the "fun to ride" object will open up access to the great outdoors in a way that bikes can't.Kawasaki's revolutionary off-road personal mobility vehicle offers excellent all-terrain capability, powered by four robotic legs, together with the handling and stability of Kawasaki's motorcycles. While preserving the joy of riding, the vehicle continually monitors the rider's movements to achieve a reassuring sense of unity between human and machine. Scale mountains, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy panoramic views. Let CORLEO unleash your "Impulse to Move" in the great outdoors.Swing ArmThe rear leg unit can swing up and down independently from the front leg unit, allowing it to absorb shocks during walking and running. Additionally, when climbing steps, the rider can maintain a posture that avoids looking upwards and makes it easier to check the road conditions ahead.OperationThe rider can control the machine through weight shifts detected by steps and handlebars. By changing the length of the stirrup, the rider can maintain an optimal posture.Hooves The four legs are equipped with hooves featuring a left-right divided structure made of rubber, a material that absorbs surface irregularities and is slip-resistant. These hooves can adapt to various terrains, including grasslands, rocky areas, and rubble fields.Power Unit & Drive System Equipped with a 150cc hydrogen engine for power generation. Hydrogen is supplied from a canister mounted at the rear. The generated electricity powers the drive units installed in each of the four legs.Navigation System Equipped with an instrument panel that displays hydrogen level, route to the summit, center of gravity position, and other information. At night, it supports optimal riding by projecting markers onto the road surface to indicate the path ahead.Though the demo video is clearly CG, the company is unveiling the concept at the 2025 World Expo, hosted in Osaka and opening this month.
    0 التعليقات 0 المشاركات 97 مشاهدة
  • WWW.YANKODESIGN.COM
    Escapod TOPO2 mountain bike specific teardrop camper has a repair workstation onboard
    It’s not every day that we come across camping trailers that are as many toy haulers as they are inhabitable. When we do, we’re eager to feature them here, so you can learn, appreciate, and who knows, even fall for one. And why wouldn’t you, especially when presented with something as fantastic as the new TOPO2 MTB? As the name suggests, it has everything to do with mountain biking. It’s the first purpose-built mountain bike-specific camper ever. At least that’s how Escapod – the builder – claims its teardrop camping trailer is. Based in Utah, Escapod already has some ingenious universal teardrop trailers in its repertoire. The 2025 Escapod TOPO2 MTB fits more in its tail to make it distinct and special. It is made for passionate mountain bikers/cyclists to have their dream ride in tow, no matter where they go, without worrying about not driving on rough terrains because it could hurt the mounted bike. Designer:  Escapod The TOPO2 integrates an e-bike-rated hitch rack and also includes a mobile workstation to keep you prepared for when things go south. The off-road camper features a lightweight, single-piece fiberglass body and a Freeride suspension that prepares it for whatever you may throw at it. Take it for a spin on the country road, park, and unmount the bike in the rear to go on your expedition and return to the comforting base when done. Of course, when you are out in the wilderness, you cannot predict the weather. And notably, you cannot restrict your adventures by the weather. The husband-wife duo behind Escapod understands this and has therefore insulated the TOPO2 MTB to take care of heating and cooling, rendering it usable in all seasons. The trailer with Feedback Sports Team Edition Tool Kit in the hatch and a Piston Ion platform rack from Küat outside on the trailer’s frame, TOPO2 MTB keeps the trailer mounted with your bike ready for anytime. Seamlessly integrated with the Escopad’s Switchback Hitch, the rack can handle two 80lb e-bikes easily, and its swing-away design offers access to the galley even when mounted with bikes. Designed to go off-roading with the bike(s) in tow, the TOPO2 comes with 23-inches of ground clearance with a complementing Freeride Suspension that can let it handle the roughest terrain. Together, the suspension and clearance add to the performance and adventure capabilities of this trailer with a comfortable sleeping unit and storage for all your gear, medical supplies, and other belongings. The bull bar with Rotopax is mounted for fuel or water canisters, while the integrated outdoor shower lets you wash up after a muddy ride on the bike. Escapod has priced the TOPO2 MTB at $53,990 and is considering preorders. The post Escapod TOPO2 mountain bike specific teardrop camper has a repair workstation onboard first appeared on Yanko Design.
    0 التعليقات 0 المشاركات 75 مشاهدة
  • WWW.HOME-DESIGNING.COM
    Modern Industrial Interior Design: Combining Functionality and Style
    Modern industrial interior design has evolved far beyond its gritty, warehouse roots. What once began as a practical necessity, making use of exposed pipes, concrete walls, and raw materials, has become one of the most sought-after aesthetics in contemporary living. It’s a style that confidently wears its imperfections, celebrating structure and function without sacrificing comfort or personality. In today’s homes, modern industrial interiors blend rugged textures with sleek furnishings, open layouts with cozy corners, and monochromatic palettes with warm, lived-in touches. Whether it’s a spacious loft filled with vintage metal fixtures or a minimalist kitchen framed by raw concrete, this design approach is all about balance, pairing the utilitarian with the stylish, the rough with the refined. In this article, we’ll explore a curated collection of stunning interiors that capture the essence of modern industrial design through striking visuals and detailed insights. 1. A Cozy Industrial Living Room with an Artistic Edge Image Source: Mohamed Sultan This modern industrial living space balances raw textures with inviting warmth. The exposed white brick walls add depth, contrasting against the sleek wooden ceiling with visible metal conduit wiring, an unmistakable industrial hallmark. A striking pendant light with an exposed bulb dangles above, casting a moody yet cozy ambiance. The room’s focal point, a large abstract portrait with a distressed aesthetic, injects artistic intrigue, while the oversized gear-style clock reinforces the industrial vibe. The seating area is both functional and stylish, featuring a sprawling neutral-toned sectional paired with a low-profile stone and wood coffee table, exuding rugged charm. A black metal-framed armchair adds a sleek industrial touch, accented with a deep red pillow for contrast. Soft textures,houndstooth throws, plush cushions, and a muted area rug, temper the space’s raw elements. Thoughtfully placed greenery along the ceiling beam and in potted plants prevents the design from feeling too stark, offering a perfect blend of modern industrial interior design and cozy sophistication. 2. Urban Luxe with Artistic Expression Image Source: Yasmeen Badr This modern industrial living room design perfectly fuses raw, urban materials with an elevated artistic sensibility. The exposed red brick accent wall brings in a classic industrial touch, contrasted by smooth concrete textures and large, black-framed windows that flood the space with natural light. Hanging from the ceiling is a cluster of geometric pendant lights with exposed bulbs, both sculptural and functional, adding visual interest without overwhelming the space. A standout feature here is the ultra-modern, cushioned sofa flanked by curvy, winged accent chairs in soft suede, all supported by slim metal legs that nod to industrial minimalism. The irregular wood coffee table becomes an organic centerpiece against a muted, distressed area rug. On the opposite side, a sleek matte TV console is grounded by bold art pieces. The vertical shelf garden in the corner introduces greenery without cluttering the clean layout, offering a balanced and refined take on contemporary industrial interior design. 3. Sculpted Modernism in an Industrial Shell Image Source: Hager El shahed This modern industrial living and dining area strikes a beautiful balance between sculptural design and raw finishes. The dramatic angled concrete wall gives the room a bold architectural identity, while the matte black built-in shelving creates structured contrast and practical storage. The caramel tufted leather sectional adds warmth and vintage flair, effortlessly standing out against the dark, monochromatic backdrop. In the dining zone, a glossy black table paired with streamlined black chairs keeps the palette cohesive and sharp. Above, a striking pendant light fixture with matte black orbs hangs like modern art, drawing the eye upward and tying the space together. A large tropical plant softens the industrial edges, while the ambient glow from the sculptural floor lamp warms up the concrete textures. This space exemplifies how contemporary industrial interior design can be both bold and inviting, raw yet refined. 4. Industrial Zen: Fitness Meets Urban Edge Image Source: Haidy Ibrahim This modern industrial home gym reimagines workout space with a blend of sleek functionality and raw design elements. Concrete walls and ceilings set the tone with a rugged, urban aesthetic, softened by warm recessed lighting that traces the architectural lines and emphasizes depth. The use of black matte accents, seen in the fitness equipment, vertical lighting fixtures, and shelving, reinforces the industrial vibe while maintaining a polished, contemporary edge. On one side, textured wood-paneled walls introduce warmth and balance, housing streamlined floating shelves that display kettlebells, yoga mats, and free weights like sculptural elements. The layout is clearly zoned: treadmills and cardio gear line one side, while yoga blocks, bolsters, and stretch mats create a calm, purposeful area for movement and mindfulness. Natural light flows in from large windows with roller blinds, and the ceiling’s cut-out skylights make the space feel open and energizing. It’s a refined example of industrial modern interior design applied to wellnessa,  space where strength meets serenity. 5. Muted Steel Elegance in a Minimalist Industrial Kitchen Image Source: Busra Comert Sleek, understated, and highly functional, this kitchen captures the essence of modern industrial interior design with its refined material palette and streamlined layout. Matte grey cabinetry, running wall-to-wall in perfect symmetry, creates a clean and cohesive backdrop. The concrete backsplash and countertops blend seamlessly with the cement-textured walls and floors, enhancing the minimalist aesthetic without sacrificing warmth. Recessed spotlights above and under the cabinets cast a soft glow, drawing attention to the subtle textures that make this kitchen feel polished yet grounded. A cozy dining nook adds character to the space, featuring a sculptural pedestal table paired with slim-profile chairs and a plush bench, all in muted neutral tones. The large window, dressed in warm wooden blinds, floods the area with natural light, offering a welcome contrast to the cool grey surfaces. Every detail, from the black metal fixtures to the simple pendant light, works together to reflect a careful balance of function, elegance, and industrial simplicity. 6. Moody Charm in a Vintage-Industrial Living Space Image Source: Ruqayah Adel Rich textures, moody lighting, and layered finishes define this thoughtfully curated industrial-style living room. The space feels instantly grounded by its exposed brick walls and concrete finishes, while soft wood paneling and natural light from the arched windows introduce a rustic warmth. The plush, oversized sectional in chocolate brown anchors the room, inviting comfort without compromising the room’s bold, masculine edge. Overhead, a sculptural tangle of exposed bulb pendant lights brings classic warehouse character with a modern twist. Design elements like the raw-edged wood coffee table, black metal shelving, and large monochrome portrait add a strong sense of personality and visual balance. A reading corner with a leather armchair and floor lamp is perfectly tucked into a niche, and the fireplace wall,with its textured stone finish and sleek built-in flame, adds drama and coziness in equal measure. Every detail in this space speaks to a refined yet relaxed take on modern industrial interior design, where rugged materials meet timeless comfort. 7. Soft Industrial Layers in an Urban Retreat Image Source: Tatiana Sapiana This cozy corner brings a refreshing, relaxed take on modern industrial interior design, blending raw materials with warm, earthy accents. A low-slung leather lounge chair in rich caramel tones becomes the focal point, paired with a matching ottoman and soft neutral throws that elevate the comfort level. Behind it, a mirrored wall subtly expands the space and reflects the light streaming in from the large window, which is framed with vertical blinds and sheer curtains—balancing privacy and softness. What truly sets this room apart is the sculptural metal shelving unit. Its mix of perforated panels in rust red and matte black, combined with integrated linear LED lighting, transforms it from a functional element into a piece of art. The layered effect of mesh, structure, and illumination feels distinctly urban, yet incredibly curated. A pair of slim round coffee tables with soft golden finishes echo the warm tones throughout the space, while a tall palm in the corner adds a touch of organic calm to this industrial oasis. 8. Effortless Tranquility in an Open Industrial Bedroom Image Source: Lidel M_ Rm With its seamless blend of raw materials and soft sophistication, this bedroom exemplifies the calming side of modern industrial interior design. A concrete ceiling and one raw brick wall anchor the room with texture and structure, while smooth, expansive surfaces and large sliding glass doors create an airy, open feel. Natural light floods the space, enhancing its minimalist layout and drawing attention to thoughtful design choices. The warm caramel-toned leather headboard, matching bench, and wooden furniture introduce a rich, natural warmth that contrasts beautifully against the cooler industrial tones. A light patterned rug adds softness underfoot, while sculptural accents, like the sunburst wall decor and the slim black pendant light, add elegance without clutter. The connection to the outdoor lounge area makes the room feel even more expansive and serene, creating a space that feels both grounded and luxurious. 9. Authentic Loft Living with Industrial Soul Image Source: Equator Interior Designers Bathed in natural light and framed by raw brick walls, this space channels the essence of classic industrial interior design with effortless charm. Towering black-framed windows, exposed steel beams, and Edison-style pendant lights set the tone for an open-concept layout that feels both grounded and expansive. The industrial bones of the space, brick, metal, and polished concrete flooring, create a rich backdrop for the warm, tactile furnishings that fill the room. Leather seating in rich camel tones softens the palette, providing a luxurious counterpoint to the harder architectural edges. A distressed wooden coffee table on metal legs rests atop a simple area rug, maintaining the space’s relaxed, lived-in energy. In the distance, a cozy dining nook and wall-to-wall bookshelf add function without clutter. Touches of greenery bring life to the environment, bridging the gap between urban grit and organic warmth. This loft is a stunning example of how modern industrial living spaces can feel stylishly raw yet deeply inviting. 10. Sculptural Drama in a Monochrome Industrial Loft Image Source: Francesco Meneghello This breathtaking loft embodies the boldest expression of modern industrial interior design, where scale, material, and form converge into a dramatic yet sophisticated environment. The soaring concrete walls and ceilings, left intentionally raw and unpolished, create a monumental backdrop that emphasizes architectural volume and brutalist charm. Natural light pours in through tall arched windows with black steel framing, softening the stark greyscape with a subtle elegance. At the heart of the space lies a sweeping black leather modular sofa arranged in a semicircle, forming a powerful visual anchor without disrupting the openness of the room. A sculptural, irregular black stone coffee table and a contrasting white faux-fur accent chair break up the monochromatic palette with tactile interest. In the distance, a long dining table reinforces the room’s gallery-like proportions, flanked by sleek, minimal seating. This space is an artful take on contemporary industrial loft design, moody, expressive, and unapologetically modern. 11. Vintage Industrial Vibes with Urban Grit Image Source: mais jamil This living space embraces a rugged, nostalgic charm that’s signature to industrial interior design, with every detail intentionally worn, raw, and character-filled. The exposed red brick wall instantly anchors the room in classic warehouse style, contrasting with a cool-toned concrete ceiling and charcoal-grey plastered walls. Large black-framed windows allow the city view to flood in, highlighting the space’s lofty, urban feel. Leather and wood dominate the furniture palette—a deep brown distressed leather sofa paired with Union Jack pillows adds a rebellious edge, while tufted tan lounge chairs and a trunk-style coffee table offer a touch of vintage utility. Overhead, an eclectic mix of industrial-style pendant lights with exposed bulbs and metal cages adds a warm, moody glow. A hanging egg chair tucked near the window injects a playful, casual vibe, perfectly balancing the structured grit of the room. This design proves that modern industrial spaces can feel raw, expressive, and unapologetically personal. Finishing Notes  Modern industrial interior design continues to prove that spaces can be both raw and refined, minimal yet full of personality. If you’re looking for more inspiration or considering your own industrial-style transformation, Home Designing is your go-to resource. From room tours to furniture ideas and expert design tips, the site is packed with everything you need to bring bold, functional beauty into your living spaces. After all, great design isn’t just about how a space looks, it’s about how it feels to live in it.
    0 التعليقات 0 المشاركات 112 مشاهدة
  • WWW.CREATIVEBLOQ.COM
    Check out some masterful manga with issue 252 of ImagineFX
    See what’s inside the new edition of ImagineFX – on sale now!
    0 التعليقات 0 المشاركات 79 مشاهدة
  • WWW.WIRED.COM
    In Trump’s Tariff Era, the Right To Repair Will Be More Important Than Ever
    The gadgets we buy and regularly update are about to get more expensive. It's time to keep the stuff you already have running longer.
    0 التعليقات 0 المشاركات 81 مشاهدة
  • WWW.MACWORLD.COM
    Here’s proof that a 256GB SSD is too small for a Mac in 2025
    Macworld You know the cliché, “bigger is better”? That almost always applies to a device’s storage capacity. It applies to Apple’s Macs, which are mostly all set at 256GB at the lower-priced standard configurations. That’s too small, even if you’re not a professional who deals with large files. We recommend getting at least a 512GB SSD, and here at Macworld, we were recently reminded of how small 256GB is. A Macworld editor (who shall remain nameless, but there are only five of us) has the unfortunate burden of a 256GB SSD in their Mac. (Okay, yeah, “Practice what you preach, Macworld.” I’ll be sure to tell upper management.) And they had problems because an extremely large amount of space (108GB) unexpectedly became dedicated to System Data–that took up half of the 256GB SSD. Foundry Now, you’re probably looking at the screenshot above and thinking, “Dang, you need to do something about Messages and Photos” and sure, you’re right (they assure us that they have Messages in iCloud and iCloud Photos set up). But when macOS and System Data take up 129GB of space on a 256GB SSD, that’s a lot. Something odd happened with System Data. Eventually, enough space was freed to install the recently released macOS 15.4 update. Installing the update resulted in a smaller System Data allocation of just 45.75GB and over 70GB of newfound free space. If you’ve never heard of “System Data,” that’s because you’re not really supposed to be preoccupied with what it is. macOS is supposed to manage it for you, and even if you do want to manually manage it, it’s no trivial task and is probably best done with the help of a disk cleanup utility. Regardless of whether you manage System Data or not, something happened with the OS that caused a 256GB SSD to run out of space temporarily. That could be catastrophic if, say, you’re working on your kid’s birthday video in iMovie and you suddenly find out that you can’t save anything. This particular situation might not be common, but it exemplifies why 256GB is too small for a Mac’s primary storage device. Stuff happens with the OS that takes up space, and you can suddenly find yourself with a full drive. You can put in the work to manage the space so you don’t trap yourself, but honestly, do you really want to do that? There are just too many other factors that come into play, too. To expand on the iMovie example I mentioned earlier, there’s an old rule of thumb that says a device should have 25GB free for iMovie (or other movie projects). And 25GB is 10 percent of a 256GB SSD’s space. That’s a lot. When we polled three other Macworld editors, they had System Data at 55GB, 68GB, and 87GB. Thankfully, those editors have 1TB SSDs, so there is no issue with free space. Nothing to worry about, even if System Data has to balloon up temporarily. The point is, until Apple increases the base level to 512GB, do yourself a favor when you buy a Mac and get an SSD bigger than 256GB. It will save you from future headaches. And if you already have a 256GB drive, consider one of these ways to expand your Mac’s storage.
    0 التعليقات 0 المشاركات 105 مشاهدة
  • WWW.COMPUTERWORLD.COM
    Meta helped build China’s DeepSeek: Whistleblower testimony
    Former Meta executive Sarah Wynn-Williams is set to testify before the US Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday, revealing how the company’s AI model, Llama, played a critical role in accelerating China’s AI capabilities — particularly contributing to the rise of DeepSeek. Actively endorsed by Chinese officials, DeepSeek has emerged as a formidable rival to OpenAI, with its launch costing just $6 million — a fraction of what most large language models require. Its emergence has created ripples across the world with many seeing it as an affordable alternative to AI models from OpenAI and Meta. Citing “Project Aldrin” as Meta’s secret mission to get into China, Wynn-Williams’ written testimony stated, “Meta built a physical pipeline connecting the United States and China. Meta executives ignored warnings that this would provide backdoor access to the Chinese Communist Party, allowing them to intercept the personal data and private messages of American citizens. The only reason China does not currently have access to US user data through this pipeline is because Congress stepped in.” She also claimed that “Meta’s AI model – Llama – has contributed significantly to Chinese advances in AI technologies like DeepSeek.” According to the testimony, Meta started briefing the Chinese Communist Party as early as 2015, focusing on critical emerging technologies, including AI, the explicit goal being to help China outcompete US companies. “There’s a straight line you can draw from these briefings to the recent revelations that China is developing AI models for military use, relying on Meta’s Llama model. Meta’s internal documents describe their sales pitch for why China should allow them in the market by quote ‘help[ing] China increase global influence and promote the China Dream,’” Wynn-Williams’ testimony read. AI arms race These revelations surface at a tense moment in US-China relations, as Washington continues to impose export restrictions on advanced AI chips in a bid to curb China’s progress in developing next-generation generative AI models. “The United States has introduced regulatory guardrails, including export controls and multilateral agreements, to prevent unintended AI knowledge transfer — particularly to strategic competitors like China. Yet enforcement remains a major challenge, as loopholes and evasion tactics limit effectiveness. The core challenge lies in balancing national security with the need to foster domestic innovation,” said Prabhu Ram, VP of Industry Research Group at CyberMedia Research. The recent disclosures about Facebook allegedly aiding China in AI development could significantly undermine global efforts to safeguard sensitive AI technologies. If proven true, it may trigger fresh calls for stricter compliance, re-evaluation of public-private partnerships, and even new international AI norms. “For years, regulation has focused on the hardware layer — chips, servers, and physical exports. But foundational models are different. They don’t move through ports or carry serial numbers,” said Sanchit Vir Gogia, chief analyst and CEO at Greyhound Research. “They are shared digitally, openly, and rapidly. Once they’re released, they’re almost impossible to track. At Greyhound Research, we believe the US and its allies must now develop an AI-native regulatory toolkit. The old frameworks simply don’t apply. We’re not advocating for a crackdown on open-source innovation — but we do believe smarter, more precise controls are urgently needed,” said Sanchit Vir Gogia, chief analyst and CEO at Greyhound Research. Such a breach of trust could erode collaboration among democratic AI powers and give China a strategic edge in critical AI applications, including military and surveillance. As this new development can put in more guardrails, restricting the development of global AI models, Ram added, “Overly broad restrictions could stifle US research and weaken its global AI leadership. Targeted, proportionate controls and stronger enforcement are needed.” However, according to a Rest of World analysis, the US and China have been the most frequent partners in AI research over the past 10 years.    Open source at a crossroads Open-source models such as Llama give developers and companies the freedom to train, fine-tune, and run AI on their own infrastructure — enabling full control over performance, privacy, and cost. They also help avoid lock-in to closed vendors, making it easier to build secure, efficient, and future-ready AI systems tailored to specific needs. While open source has significantly lowered the barriers to entry for AI innovation, experts believe that Meta’s Llama models have been central to this shift enabling a wide range of companies to build AI solutions. This openness also raises complex questions around ownership, accountability, and national security — especially when models are repurposed in jurisdictions with differing regulatory norms and strategic goals. This new revelation of Meta playing a crucial role in the development of DeepSeek highlights the growing tension between openness and strategic control. “Emerging markets are likely to accelerate efforts to establish clearer AI governance frameworks — balancing local innovation with context-specific challenges. At the same time, they will seek to reduce risks of misuse and dependency on external foundations through proactive guardrails that ensure responsible oversight and effective management,” Ram said.
    0 التعليقات 0 المشاركات 82 مشاهدة