Microsoft is making significant strides in AI, developing its own models like MAI-Voice-1 for fast audio generation and MAI-1-preview for text-based tasks, potentially enhancing Copilot. These models are designed to be efficient and cost-effective, and are being tested publicly, with developers able to request early access. This move signals Microsoft's intent to reduce its reliance on OpenAI, even as it maintains a major investment in the company. Meanwhile, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has appointed Amit Kapur to head its new AI unit, reflecting a broader trend among Indian IT firms to expand their AI offerings. In South Korea, the National Intelligence Service (NIS) is addressing AI security, with over 60% of major institutions using AI and the establishment of the National AI Security Center in February 2025. AI is also transforming education, with companies like Cengage Group using AI to personalize learning experiences for over one million college students across more than 100 products, and piloting AI tools to adjust reading levels for K-12 students. The U.S. Open is incorporating AI by creating 3D cartoon replays and an AI chatbot for commentary, though reactions from fans are mixed. However, experts warn against over-reliance on AI-generated content that lacks original thought, emphasizing the importance of human insight and data. In career news, Manoj Tumu, a 23-year-old, left Amazon for a machine learning engineer position at Meta, drawn by Meta's AI projects. Finally, new books are exploring the potential and perils of AI, highlighting ongoing debates about its future impact.
Key Takeaways
- Microsoft is developing in-house AI models, MAI-Voice-1 and MAI-1-preview, to compete with OpenAI and enhance Copilot.
- Microsoft's MAI-1-preview is being tested publicly, with developers able to request early access.
- TCS has appointed Amit Kapur to lead its new AI and services unit.
- South Korea's NIS is focusing on AI security, with the National AI Security Center established in February 2025.
- Cengage Group is using AI to personalize learning for over one million college students.
- The U.S. Open is using AI to generate 3D replays and chatbot commentary.
- Experts caution against over-relying on AI-generated content lacking original thought.
- Manoj Tumu left Amazon for a machine learning engineer role at Meta.
- Voice chatting is now available on ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Microsoft Copilot, Meta AI, and Grok.
- New books are exploring the potential benefits and risks of AI.
Microsoft creates its own powerful AI models to rival OpenAI
Microsoft has revealed two new AI models, MAI-Voice-1 and MAI-1-preview, that compete with top AI systems like OpenAI. MAI-Voice-1 is a fast speech model, while MAI-1-preview is for text and could improve Copilot. These models are designed to be cost-effective, using fewer resources than others. Microsoft is also working on future models using Nvidia's GB-200 chips. CEO Mustafa Suleyman aims to deepen the partnership with OpenAI, despite the competition.
Microsoft tests MAI-1-preview AI model intensifying OpenAI competition
Microsoft is testing its MAI-1-preview AI model, its first one trained completely in-house. It's being tested publicly and developers can request early access. Microsoft has relied on OpenAI's models, but wants to be less dependent. The new model could improve Microsoft's Copilot assistant. Microsoft is still a major investor in OpenAI, but the companies are becoming competitors.
Microsoft enters AI race with in-house models
Microsoft is launching its own AI models, MAI-Voice-1 and MAI-1-preview, to compete with models like GPT-5. MAI-Voice-1 can quickly generate audio, while MAI-1-preview will be used in Copilot. You can test MAI-Voice-1 online. Microsoft AI plans to use MAI-1-preview for text tasks in Copilot, which currently uses OpenAI's models.
AI transforms online courses into personalized learning experiences
AI is changing online courses (MOOCs) by making learning more personalized. AI uses machine learning and data to understand how students learn. It then changes the course to fit each student's needs. AI tracks student progress and suggests helpful resources. This helps students learn better and stay interested.
Cengage Group uses AI to personalize learning for students
Cengage Group is expanding its use of AI in learning tools for students and teachers. Over one million college students will use Cengage's AI-powered tools in over 100 products. They are also testing an AI Learning Assistant for career training courses. Cengage School is piloting an AI tool to adjust reading levels for K-12 students. The goal is to create personalized learning experiences using trusted content and proven teaching methods.
South Korea focuses on AI security for public institutions
South Korea's spy agency held a meeting for security officials to discuss the safe use of AI. Over 60% of South Korea's major institutions use AI. The National Intelligence Service (NIS) created the National AI Security Center in February 2025. This center helps address growing security threats related to AI.
TCS appoints Amit Kapur to lead new AI unit
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has appointed Amit Kapur to lead its new AI and services unit. This move comes as Indian IT companies are working to offer more AI products. The goal is to attract tech spending. TCS has been investing in AI capabilities and training its workforce.
Avoid AI-generated content that lacks original thought
AI can create content that seems real but lacks insights and opinions. This happens when people let AI do the thinking for them. To avoid this, make sure your ideas are your own. Use AI as an editor to improve your writing, but don't let it write for you. Always include your own data and opinions to make your content meaningful.
Voice chatting with AI which chatbot is best
Voice chatting with AI is becoming popular. ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Microsoft Copilot, Meta AI, and Grok all offer voice conversation modes for free. Each AI has different voices and ways of responding. Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot ask questions to keep the conversation going. Meta AI can even brainstorm ideas with you.
22-year-old leaves Amazon for $400000 Meta AI job
Manoj Tumu, 23, left Amazon to work at Meta as a machine learning engineer. He was drawn to Meta's AI projects. Tumu advises others to get tech internships and highlight experience on their resumes. He also says to prepare for behavioral interviews by studying the company's values. He suggests focusing on machine learning roles, even if they pay less at first.
AI brings 3D tennis and chatty commentary to U.S. Open
The U.S. Open is using AI to create 3D cartoon replays of matches. Fans can watch animated versions of tennis stars on their phones. The app also has an AI chatbot that offers commentary. The chatbot has been programmed to avoid controversial topics. Some fans like the new technology, while others prefer the traditional experience.
New books explore AI's potential and perils
New books are exploring the impact of AI, with some seeing it as a threat and others as overhyped. Some worry about superintelligent robots destroying humanity. Others think AI will only replace some jobs. The books highlight the confusion and debate surrounding AI's role in the future.
Sources
- Microsoft unveils powerful new home-grown AI models
- Microsoft starts testing AI model that could escalate competition with OpenAI
- Microsoft launches its first in-house AI models
- The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on MOOCs: Smarter, More Personalized Learning
- Cengage Group Scales AI Products Across Portfolio to Enhance Learning Outcomes and Personalize Experiences for Millions of Learners
- South Korea's spy agency convenes AI security officials from public institutions | MLex | Specialist news and analysis on legal risk and regulation
- India’s TCS names Amit Kapur as head of newly formed AI unit, company memo shows
- 4 tips to using AI and not creating slop
- No More Typing: I've Been Talking to 5 AI Chatbots. This One Really Stood Out
- I quit Amazon for a $400,000 offer package from Meta at 22
- Tennis-AI serves up 3D tennis and chatty commentary in U.S. Open first
- Is A.I. a Dire Threat or a Lot of Hype? Three New Books Span the Gamut.