Google messing with YouTube Shorts without permission!
Microsoft introduces AI for Excel with a warning not to use it!
We recently published an article detailing Google’s undue influence on the World Wide Web. Now, Google has been caught messing with YouTube Video Shorts. Several leading content creators noticed that the videos they submitted had been changed, and not for the better. Among the changes noted are smudgy video, noticeable upscaling artefacts, and natural characteristics such as hair and skin that look fake.
It seems Google has been experimenting with AI in an attempt to “provide the best video quality and experience possible“. The problem is that Google forgot to inform creators of its interference with their content, let alone ask permission. Obviously, content creators are up in arms, and with very good reason.
As one creator pointed out, the last thing content creators need is a finished product that looks like it’s been created by AI; nothing is more certain to turn away followers/subscribers.
Google, you seriously need to pull your head in.
Microsoft Excel & AI
Yes, folks, it seems nothing is safe from AI. Microsoft has introduced a new AI element into its Excel application. I must point out that the COPILOT feature in Excel is currently in Beta and available only through the Microsoft 365 Insider program.
According to Microsoft’s recent announcement, “The COPILOT function allows users to leverage artificial intelligence by providing a prompt and references from the grid to generate responses based on an AI language model”.
However, it’s the advisory under the “When not to use the COPILOT function” section that creates the most interest. Microsoft admits that “COPILOT can give incorrect responses” and says it shouldn’t be used for:
- Numerical calculations
- Responses that require context other than the ranges provided
- Lookups based on data in your workbook
- Tasks with legal, regulatory, or compliance implications
- Recent or real-time data
In short, pretty much everything that you would usually use Excel for. Of course, this feature is in Beta and, hopefully, will be improved over time. Even so, it begs the question, why not wait until the feature is fully developed and in tune with Excel’s main functions before releasing it?
This COPILOT feature is apparently only available via subscription. I very much doubt that it’s going to make Microsoft any wealthier any time soon.
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