Microsoft AI Layoffs, Meta Buys Scale AI Stake, Midjourney Lawsuit

AI is rapidly transforming various sectors, from engineering to manufacturing and education. ServiceNow's CTO, Pat Casey, notes that AI is automating tasks traditionally done by junior engineers, requiring them to learn new coding tools. Meanwhile, Microsoft is planning layoffs to increase investments in AI, shifting sales responsibilities to third-party firms. In a significant move, Meta is reportedly buying a 49% stake in Scale AI, valuing the company at $29 billion, with Scale AI's CEO, Alexandr Wang, joining Meta to work on AI while remaining on Scale's board. Disney is actively fighting AI misuse by suing Midjourney to protect its characters like Darth Vader, setting a precedent for other studios. Elon Musk aims to use Grok AI to rewrite human knowledge, sparking controversy over potential biases. Cybercriminals are also leveraging AI to create sophisticated cyberattacks, necessitating robust cybersecurity measures. CloEE, a Finnish startup, secured €520k to expand its AI platform for manufacturing, focusing on efficiency and sustainability. Many companies are struggling with AI implementation due to a lack of clear strategy, leading to wasted resources and legal risks. In India, AI is transforming call centers by altering agents' accents, raising concerns about job displacement. On a positive note, New Mexico State University will offer New Mexico's first AI bachelor's degree in 2026, preparing students for AI-related careers.

Key Takeaways

  • ServiceNow says AI is automating junior engineering tasks, requiring engineers to upskill.
  • Meta is acquiring a 49% stake in Scale AI, valuing it at $29 billion.
  • Disney is suing Midjourney to protect its characters from AI misuse.
  • Microsoft is planning layoffs to increase investments in AI.
  • Elon Musk wants Grok AI to rewrite human knowledge, raising bias concerns.
  • Cybercriminals are using AI to create more convincing cyberattacks.
  • CloEE raised €520k to expand its AI platform for manufacturing efficiency.
  • Many AI projects fail due to a lack of clear strategy and alignment.
  • AI is transforming Indian call centers, altering agents' accents and impacting jobs.
  • New Mexico State University will offer New Mexico's first AI bachelor's degree in 2026.

AI is changing engineers' careers says ServiceNow CTO

ServiceNow's CTO, Pat Casey, says AI is changing what engineers do. AI is automating tasks that junior engineers used to do, creating a 'pinch point' in the engineering field. Casey suggests engineers learn new coding tools to stand out. Senior engineers are valuable for complex projects and specialized problem-solving.

Scale AI's CEO reveals tasks he never delegated

Alexandr Wang, CEO of Scale AI, says he always personally approved every hire and reviewed customer data. Meta is buying a 49% stake in Scale AI, valuing the company at $29 billion. Wang is joining Meta to work on AI but will remain on Scale's board. He believes caring deeply about the work is key to success at Scale AI.

Disney fights AI: Protecting Darth Vader and other characters

Disney is suing Midjourney to protect its characters like Darth Vader from AI use. Disney's lawyer, Horacio Gutierrez, says this is the first step in limiting AI companies' use of their characters. Other studios like Paramount and NBCUniversal are supporting Disney's efforts. Disney wants to control how its characters are used commercially by AI.

Microsoft layoffs coming as AI investments increase

Microsoft plans to lay off thousands of employees, mainly in sales, to invest more in AI. The layoffs are expected in early July after the company's fiscal year ends. This follows previous layoffs in engineering. Microsoft is shifting sales responsibilities for small business software to third-party firms. The company is investing billions in AI expansion.

Elon Musk wants Grok AI to rewrite human knowledge

Elon Musk wants Grok AI to rewrite all human knowledge to remove errors and biases. He says current AI models are trained on too much 'garbage' data. Critics worry this could lead to rewriting history to fit Musk's views. Musk asked X users for 'politically incorrect' facts to train Grok, which led to conspiracy theories.

AI cyber threats: How to protect your business

Cybercriminals are using AI to create convincing cyberattacks. Companies need strong defenses and strategies to protect against AI-enabled threats. AI can speed up scams, create deepfakes, and generate fake content. Companies are investing in cybersecurity and reviewing communication policies. Businesses should verify requests, audit processes, and monitor systems to stay safe.

CloEE raises €520k to boost AI in manufacturing

CloEE, a Finnish startup, raised €520k to expand its AI platform for manufacturing. The platform analyzes data from machines to improve efficiency and sustainability. CloEE's AI helps manufacturers reduce downtime, delays, and energy costs. The company plans to use the funding to grow in the Nordics, Italy, and the US.

Is your AI strategy failing? Here's how to fix it

Many AI projects fail because companies lack a clear strategy. Teams often work in different directions, creating confusion and wasted resources. Companies need a unified AI strategy to align efforts and avoid legal risks. Without clear goals and metrics, it's hard to prove the value of AI investments. A strong AI strategy requires alignment, governance, and measurable results.

AI transforms Indian call centers: Impact on workers

AI is changing Indian call centers, with software altering agents' accents. This helps customers understand them better. Some say AI creates new jobs, while others worry it will eliminate many. AI systems now handle tasks like quality assurance, previously done by humans. Experts predict AI will reduce entry-level jobs in the sector.

NMSU to offer New Mexico's first AI bachelor's degree

New Mexico State University will offer the state's first Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence in 2026. The program will cover machine learning, data mining, and AI ethics. The degree aims to prepare students for AI jobs and leadership roles. NMSU's AI Institute will provide resources and scholarships for AI education.

Sources

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