October 2, 2025

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Microsoft Custom Chips, Google AI Silicon, Nvidia AMD

Hollywood is currently embroiled in a heated debate surrounding Tilly Norwood, the first AI-generated actress. Created by Eline Van der Velden, Norwood has drawn sharp criticism from prominent actors like Emily Blunt, Natasha Lyonne, and Whoopi Goldberg, as well as the Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA). The union condemns the AI character, stating it is a computer program trained on performers' work without consent or compensation, and lacks the emotion and life experience of human actors. Despite the backlash, which echoes concerns from the 2023 Hollywood strikes about AI's potential to displace human performers, some talent agencies are reportedly interested in representing Norwood. Meanwhile, in the tech sector, Microsoft is strategically shifting towards using its own custom-designed chips for AI workloads in its data centers. CTO Kevin Scott announced this move, which aims to reduce reliance on Nvidia and AMD and optimize system design. Microsoft is already deploying its Azure Maia AI Accelerator and Cobalt CPU, with next-generation products in development, a strategy also pursued by competitors like Google and Amazon. This development occurs amidst a persistent global shortage of computing capacity due to soaring AI demand. In other AI-related news, IBM and AMD are partnering to provide Zyphra with advanced AI infrastructure, including a large cluster of AMD Instinct MI300X GPUs on IBM Cloud, to train foundation models for a general-purpose superagent. Elsewhere, AI is being applied to conservation efforts, with scientists in Oregon using AI and microphones to track endangered spotted owls, and U.S. Customs selecting Altana's AI for enhanced supply chain tracking. The defense tech sector in Europe is seeing increased venture capital funding for AI and robotics, driven by the war in Ukraine, though challenges in scaling remain. Velantra AI highlights the critical need for robust risk management in next-generation AI trading systems. In a significant workforce shift, Paycom has replaced over 500 workers with AI at its Oklahoma City headquarters. Security concerns also arise, with a critical vulnerability found in Red Hat OpenShift AI that could allow infrastructure takeover. Finally, educators are preparing for the future, with workshops in Imperial County training teachers in math and AI to enhance instruction.

Key Takeaways

  • Hollywood actors and SAG-AFTRA are strongly condemning the AI-generated actress Tilly Norwood, citing concerns about consent, compensation, and the lack of human emotion and experience.
  • Despite backlash, some talent agencies are reportedly interested in representing the AI actress Tilly Norwood, highlighting ongoing industry debate about AI's role.
  • Microsoft plans to prioritize its own custom-designed chips, such as the Azure Maia AI Accelerator and Cobalt CPU, for AI workloads in its data centers to reduce reliance on Nvidia and AMD.
  • Major tech companies like Microsoft, Google, and Amazon are developing their own silicon for AI, driven by high demand and a persistent shortage in computing capacity.
  • IBM and AMD are collaborating to provide Zyphra with advanced AI infrastructure, including AMD Instinct MI300X GPUs on IBM Cloud, for developing generative AI models and a superagent.
  • AI is being utilized in conservation, with scientists in Oregon using it to track endangered spotted owls through audio data analysis.
  • U.S. Customs and Border Protection has selected Altana's AI-powered Product Passports to improve supply chain traceability and expedite customs clearance.
  • Europe's defense tech sector is attracting increased venture capital for AI and robotics due to the war in Ukraine, though scaling remains a challenge.
  • Paycom has laid off over 500 employees, replacing these roles with AI and advanced technologies at its Oklahoma City headquarters.
  • A critical security vulnerability has been identified in Red Hat OpenShift AI, potentially allowing attackers to take over hybrid cloud infrastructure.

AI actor Tilly Norwood sparks anger and debate in Hollywood

Hollywood is reacting with anger to Tilly Norwood, the first AI-generated actor. Created by Dutch producer Eline Van der Velden and her company Xicoia, Norwood is trained on the work of many performers without their permission. The Screen Actors Guild strongly condemned the creation, stating it lacks emotion and life experience, and that audiences prefer human connection. Van der Velden defended Norwood as a piece of art and a creative work, not a replacement for humans. Despite the backlash, some talent agencies are reportedly interested in representing the AI character.

Hollywood stars like Emily Blunt condemn AI actress Tilly Norwood

The AI-generated actress Tilly Norwood is facing strong criticism from Hollywood figures and SAG-AFTRA. Actress Emily Blunt called the creation 'terrifying,' while SAG-AFTRA stated that Norwood is a computer program trained on performers' work without consent. The union emphasized that AI performers lack human experience and emotion, and that using them creates problems by potentially displacing human actors. Creator Eline Van der Velden maintains that Norwood is a piece of art and a creative work, not a replacement for human actors.

Emily Blunt calls AI actress Tilly Norwood 'terrifying' amid Hollywood outrage

Hollywood celebrities like Emily Blunt, Natasha Lyonne, and Whoopi Goldberg are expressing outrage over the AI-generated actress Tilly Norwood. The Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA) condemned Norwood, stating it's a computer program trained on performers' work without permission or compensation. Creator Eline Van der Velden defended Norwood as a piece of art, not a replacement for humans, but actors like Lyonne have called for boycotts of agencies that represent AI talent. The controversy highlights ongoing concerns about AI's impact on the acting profession, a key issue during the 2023 Hollywood strikes.

SAG-AFTRA condemns AI actress Tilly Norwood, citing stolen performances

The SAG-AFTRA actors union has condemned the AI-generated actress Tilly Norwood, calling it a character created from performers' work without permission or compensation. The union stated that 'Tilly Norwood' is not an actor and lacks life experience and emotion, potentially jeopardizing performer livelihoods. Producer Eline Van der Velden described Norwood as a piece of art and a creative work, not a replacement for humans. SAG-AFTRA reminded producers of contractual obligations regarding the use of synthetic performers, a concern that was central to the 2023 Hollywood strikes.

AI actress Tilly Norwood creator defends 'piece of art' amid backlash

Eline Van der Velden, creator of the AI actress Tilly Norwood, defends her creation as a 'piece of art' and a new tool, not a replacement for human actors. Despite backlash from stars like Melissa Barrera and Toni Collette, who called the development 'gross' and questioned the use of real women's faces, Van der Velden believes AI characters should be judged on their own merits. The controversy echoes concerns from the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike about AI potentially replacing human performers and using their work without consent or compensation.

SAG-AFTRA opposes AI actors like Tilly Norwood, citing stolen performances

SAG-AFTRA has publicly stated its opposition to AI performers like Tilly Norwood, calling the character a computer program trained on professional performers' work without permission or compensation. The union emphasized that AI lacks human emotion and experience, and its use creates problems by potentially displacing actors and devaluing artistry. Creator Eline Van der Velden described Norwood as a creative work and a piece of art. SAG-AFTRA also reminded producers of their contractual obligations regarding the use of synthetic performers.

AI actress Tilly Norwood sparks Hollywood debate and actor outcry

The AI-generated actress Tilly Norwood is causing a stir in Hollywood, with actors like Emily Blunt and Simu Liu expressing concern. Creator Eline Van der Velden insists Norwood is a creative work of art, not a replacement for humans. However, many actors, including Whoopi Goldberg, argue that AI creations have an unfair advantage and lack genuine human connection. The debate highlights fears about AI potentially taking jobs from human performers, a key issue during the 2023 Hollywood strikes.

AI actress Tilly Norwood sparks fierce debate over 'talent' in Hollywood

The debut of Tilly Norwood, Hollywood's first AI actress created by Eline Van der Velden's studio Xicoia, has ignited a fierce debate. While Van der Velden calls Norwood a 'piece of art' and a new tool, actors like Whoopi Goldberg express concern about AI's unfair advantages and lack of human connection. The controversy highlights anxieties about AI replacing human jobs and raises questions about whether AI creations can truly be considered 'actors.' The debate also touches on issues of copyright and consent regarding the data used to train AI.

AI actor Tilly Norwood faces Hollywood backlash over job displacement fears

Tilly Norwood, an AI-generated character presented as Hollywood's first 'AI actor,' has faced significant backlash from actors, guilds, and filmmakers. The Screen Actors Guild stated that creativity should remain human-centered and that Norwood is a computer program trained on performers' work without consent. Creator Eline Van der Velden described Norwood as a creative work and art, not a replacement for humans. Concerns about AI potentially replacing actors and devaluing human artistry were central to the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike.

AI actress Tilly Norwood draws rebuke from Hollywood actors union

SAG-AFTRA has criticized the AI-generated character Tilly Norwood, stating the union opposes replacing human performers with synthetics. The union clarified that Norwood is a computer program trained on performers' work without permission, lacking emotion and life experience. Creator Eline van der Velden described Norwood as an experiment and a piece of art, not a substitute for humans. The controversy follows the 2023 actors' strike, where AI protections were a key negotiation point.

AI actress Tilly Norwood faces Hollywood outrage and boycott calls

The AI-generated actress Tilly Norwood has sparked outrage in Hollywood, with actors like Emily Blunt and Simu Liu expressing fear and concern. Creator Eline Van der Velden insists Norwood is a piece of art, not a replacement for humans. However, the Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA) condemned the creation, stating it's trained on performers' work without consent and lacks human emotion. Actors have called for boycotts of agencies interested in representing Norwood, highlighting deep-seated fears about AI's impact on the acting profession.

Hollywood reacts with outrage to AI actress Tilly Norwood

The AI-generated actress Tilly Norwood has caused significant outrage in Hollywood, with actors and the SAG-AFTRA union condemning the creation. The union stated that Norwood is a computer program trained on performers' work without permission, lacking emotion and life experience. Creator Eline Van der Velden described Norwood as a piece of art and a new tool, not a replacement for humans. Concerns about AI potentially displacing actors and devaluing human artistry are high, especially after the 2023 actors' strike.

Experts weigh in on AI actor Tilly Norwood and industry's future

The debut of AI-generated actress Tilly Norwood is causing a stir in Hollywood, with experts calling it a 'wakeup call' for the industry. While creator Eline Van der Velden defends Norwood as a piece of art, SAG-AFTRA condemned the creation, stating it's trained on performers' work without consent and lacks human emotion. Experts note that AI actors pose a serious threat to human actors due to lower costs, and that this development was inevitable given the industry's direction.

AI actor Tilly Norwood sparks outrage and debate in Hollywood

The AI-generated actress Tilly Norwood has ignited fierce debate and outrage in Hollywood. Creator Eline Van der Velden calls Norwood a 'piece of art,' but SAG-AFTRA condemns it as a computer program trained on performers' work without consent, lacking emotion and life experience. Actors like Emily Blunt and Whoopi Goldberg have expressed concerns about AI's impact on human connection and job security. The controversy highlights ongoing fears about AI replacing human actors, a key issue during the 2023 strikes.

AI actor Tilly Norwood's debut sparks existential crisis fears in Hollywood

The emergence of Tilly Norwood, an AI-generated 'actor,' has sparked intense backlash and debate in Hollywood. Creator Eline Van der Velden describes Norwood as a 'piece of art,' but SAG-AFTRA and many actors argue it's an insult to human performers, trained on their work without consent and lacking genuine emotion. The arrival of an AI actor raises fears about job displacement and the future of the industry, with some talent agencies reportedly showing interest in representing the digital creation.

Hollywood agents circle AI actress Tilly Norwood, sparking backlash

Tilly Norwood, an AI-generated actress, is reportedly attracting interest from talent agents, causing significant backlash in Hollywood. Creator Eline van der Velden defends Norwood as a 'piece of art,' but SAG-AFTRA and numerous actors condemn the creation, arguing it's trained on performers' work without consent and lacks human emotion. Actors like Chelsea Edmundson and Mara Wilson have voiced concerns about exploitation and the potential displacement of human actors, highlighting fears amplified by the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike.

AI actor Tilly Norwood sparks Hollywood outrage, creator defends it

Tilly Norwood, a 100% AI-generated character, is causing a stir in Hollywood as its creator, Eline Van der Velden, seeks representation for the digital persona. SAG-AFTRA has strongly condemned Norwood, stating it's a computer program trained on performers' work without permission and lacks human emotion. Van der Velden defends Norwood as a creative work of art, not a replacement for humans. Actor Sean Aston emphasized that AI creations lack the real emotional experiences that human actors bring.

June Squibb on AI actors: 'It is frightening' but 'it's going to happen'

Veteran actress June Squibb acknowledges that AI creations like Tilly Norwood are 'frightening' but believes they are inevitable. While audiences can often distinguish AI from human performers, Squibb suggests the industry must adapt. The creation of Tilly Norwood, an AI actress reportedly attracting interest from talent agents, has drawn criticism from SAG-AFTRA, which stated the character is trained on performers' work without consent and lacks human emotion.

Microsoft aims to use its own AI chips in data centers

Microsoft's Chief Technology Officer Kevin Scott announced the company's intention to primarily use its own custom-designed chips for AI workloads in its data centers. This strategic shift aims to reduce reliance on Nvidia and AMD, which currently supply most of the chips. Microsoft has already launched its Azure Maia AI Accelerator and Cobalt CPU, and is developing next-generation products. This move is part of a broader industry trend where major tech companies design their own silicon for efficiency and control, though a significant compute capacity shortage persists due to high AI demand.

Microsoft plans to use in-house chips for AI data centers

Microsoft plans to prioritize its own custom-designed chips for AI tasks in its data centers, aiming to lessen dependence on Nvidia and AMD. CTO Kevin Scott stated this strategy focuses on optimizing price-performance and system design. Microsoft already uses its Azure Maia AI Accelerator and Cobalt CPU, with next-generation chips in development. This move aligns with competitors like Google and Amazon who are also developing their own silicon. Despite these efforts, a significant shortage in computing capacity continues due to soaring AI demand.

Microsoft to prioritize its own AI data center chips

Microsoft intends to primarily use its own custom-designed chips for artificial intelligence in its data centers, according to CTO Kevin Scott. This strategy aims to reduce reliance on Nvidia and AMD and optimize system design. Microsoft already utilizes its Azure Maia AI Accelerator and Cobalt CPU, with plans for future generations. This move mirrors efforts by competitors like Google and Amazon to develop in-house silicon for efficiency. However, the demand for AI computing power continues to outstrip supply, creating a significant capacity shortage.

Microsoft aims to rely more on its own AI chips

Microsoft announced its intention to primarily use its own developed chips for AI in its data centers, aiming for greater technological autonomy and cost-effectiveness. The company already uses its Azure Maia AI Accelerator and Cobalt processor and is developing new generations. This strategy, similar to those of Google and Amazon, focuses on optimizing infrastructure for specific needs. Despite these efforts, the demand for AI computing power remains extremely high, leading to a persistent shortage.

IBM, AMD, and Zyphra partner for advanced AI infrastructure

IBM and AMD are collaborating to provide Zyphra, an open-source AI research company, with advanced AI infrastructure. IBM will host a large cluster of AMD Instinct MI300X GPUs on IBM Cloud for Zyphra to train frontier multimodal foundation models. This partnership aims to create one of the largest generative AI training capabilities using an AMD stack on IBM Cloud. Zyphra plans to use this powerful setup to develop Maia, a general-purpose superagent designed to enhance productivity for knowledge workers.

Zyphra partners with IBM and AMD for AI superagent development

Zyphra, an open-source AI company, has partnered with IBM and AMD to build advanced AI infrastructure. IBM will provide a large cluster of AMD Instinct MI300X GPUs on IBM Cloud for Zyphra to train multimodal foundation models. This collaboration aims to deliver significant generative AI training capabilities. Zyphra plans to use this powerful system to develop Maia, a general-purpose superagent designed to boost productivity for enterprise knowledge workers.

AI helps scientists track endangered owls in Oregon

Scientists are using AI and a network of microphones in Oregon's forests to track endangered spotted owls. This technology allows researchers to process vast amounts of audio data, identifying owl calls to better understand their populations and habitats. Previously, manually reviewing audio was unfeasible due to the sheer volume of data collected. This AI-driven approach helps conservationists gather crucial information to protect species facing decline from habitat loss and competition.

US Customs selects Altana's AI for supply chain tracking

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has chosen Altana's AI-powered Product Passports to enhance supply chain traceability and speed up customs clearance. This system allows companies to securely track products from raw materials to completion and share this information with CBP before goods arrive. Approved products can use a Product Passport ID for faster customs processing, similar to a 'Global Entry' for goods. This initiative aims to improve enforcement efficiency and facilitate trade for trusted businesses.

Europe's defense tech sector needs tech-style finance to fight drone wars

Europe's defense tech sector is experiencing rapid growth in venture capital funding, driven by the war in Ukraine. Startups are increasingly using AI, robotics, and autonomous systems, attracting investment that was previously shunned. However, these innovators face challenges in scaling up and securing large contracts typically awarded to established defense companies. The need for flexible, affordable technology is highlighted by Ukraine's struggle with drone warfare, where a lack of funding for anti-drone systems contrasts with significant investment in drone development.

Risk management is key for next-gen AI trading systems, says Velantra AI

Velantra AI emphasizes that robust risk management will define the future of AI trading systems. While AI promises faster decision-making, historical financial crises show that speed alone is insufficient. The company stresses that integrating comprehensive risk controls is crucial for stability and long-term success in AI-driven markets. Without prioritizing risk mitigation, the potential benefits of AI could be overshadowed by significant losses, undermining market confidence.

Paycom replaces over 500 workers with AI at Oklahoma City HQ

Paycom, a major technology employer in Oklahoma City, is laying off over 500 workers as many of these roles are being replaced by artificial intelligence. This marks the company's first major layoff since its founding in 1998. The restructuring impacts non-client-facing positions automated by AI and advanced technologies. Paycom stated it continues to hire for client-facing roles and will provide transition assistance to affected employees.

Red Hat OpenShift AI flaw allows infrastructure takeover

A critical security vulnerability, CVE-2025-10725, has been discovered in Red Hat OpenShift AI. This flaw allows authenticated attackers to escalate privileges and gain full administrative control over the hybrid cloud infrastructure. The vulnerability affects specific versions of Red Hat OpenShift AI. Red Hat advises users to avoid granting broad permissions and to implement granular access controls to mitigate the risk of data theft and service disruption.

Workshops to train Imperial County teachers in math and AI

SDSU Imperial Valley is offering workshops funded by a $70,000 grant to train 100 TK-5 teachers in Imperial County on math and AI. The 'AI-Enhanced Summer Math Methods Institute for Teachers' program will provide training in mathematics content and practical AI tools for instruction and assessment. Teachers will learn to use AI for lesson planning, adaptive activities, and student assessments, aiming to enhance math education and prepare students for a future shaped by AI.

Sources

AI actress Tilly Norwood Hollywood SAG-AFTRA AI ethics job displacement synthetic performers AI in data centers Microsoft custom AI chips Nvidia AMD AI infrastructure IBM Zyphra generative AI superagent AI in conservation endangered owls supply chain tracking US Customs Altana AI in defense drone warfare AI trading systems risk management Velantra AI AI automation Paycom Red Hat OpenShift AI AI security vulnerability AI in education math education teacher training