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In today’s edition

The U.S. government is ramping up its pressure on Chinese AI companies, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicating that sanctions could be imposed on certain Chinese AI models. This move is part of a broader strategy to curb China's advancements in artificial intelligence, which the U.S. sees as a potential threat to its own technological leadership. The sanctions would target companies accused of stealing intellectual property, reflecting ongoing tensions between the two nations in the tech arena. As the competition heats up, the implications for global AI development and international relations could be significant.

📰 TechCrunch

In a landmark decision, a federal judge has approved a $1.5 billion settlement between Anthropic and a group of authors who accused the company of using their copyrighted works to train its AI models. This settlement is notable not only for its size but also for the implications it holds for the future of AI and copyright law. Authors will receive around $3,000 for each book allegedly pirated, marking a significant moment in the ongoing debate over how AI interacts with creative works. The ruling could set a precedent for similar cases in the future, as the industry grapples with the legal ramifications of AI training data.

📰 The Verge

Google has unveiled its latest AI model, Gemini 3.6 Flash, which promises to be faster and more cost-effective than its predecessors. This new model is designed to enhance performance, particularly in cybersecurity applications, making it a more accessible option for governments and trusted partners. While the 3.5 Pro version is still undergoing testing, the introduction of 3.6 Flash indicates Google’s commitment to staying competitive in the AI landscape. This move is part of a broader trend where tech giants are continuously innovating to meet the growing demand for efficient AI solutions.

📰 Ars Technica

Deezer, the music streaming service, has revealed that more than 50% of the tracks uploaded to its platform each day are generated by artificial intelligence. This statistic highlights the growing presence of AI in the music industry, where algorithms are now capable of creating songs that are being shared and consumed by listeners. In June alone, the platform saw over 90,000 AI-generated tracks uploaded daily, raising questions about the future of music creation and the role of human artists. As AI continues to evolve, it’s clear that it’s becoming an integral part of the music landscape.

📰 TechCrunch

Gritt, a robotics startup, has emerged from stealth mode with an impressive $32 million in funding aimed at automating the construction of solar plants. The company plans to use advanced robotics to tackle some of the toughest tasks on construction sites, potentially revolutionizing the way renewable energy projects are built. This funding round reflects a growing interest in using technology to streamline construction processes and make renewable energy more accessible. As the world shifts towards sustainable energy solutions, innovations like Gritt’s could play a pivotal role in accelerating this transition.

📰 TechCrunch

🧘 The Chill Take

Anthropic’s $1.5 billion book piracy settlement approved by judge

What people think

People think this settlement means AI companies can now use copyrighted material without consequences.

The calm reality

In reality, this settlement highlights the importance of protecting authors' rights and sets a precedent for future cases. It shows that while AI can be powerful, it must operate within the boundaries of copyright law.