Pentagon Signs Deal to "Deploy AI Agents for Military Use"
The team-up, described as a "flagship program," is a notable development given how divisive the topic of the use of AI in warfare has proven — and how many of the tech's nagging shortcomings have yet to be meaningfully addressed.
Yet the encroachment of AI tech within the military has been unmistakable. Both Google and OpenAI have walked back rules forbidding the use of their AI tech for weapons development and surveillance, showing that Silicon Valley is opening up to the idea of having its tools be used by the military.
Just last month, a senior Pentagon official told Defense One that the US military was looking to move away from funding research on the topic of autonomous killer robots and investing in actual AI-powered weaponry instead.
And it goes beyond the Pentagon. Late last year, OpenAI also announced a partnership with Palmer Luckey's defense tech company Anduril to focus on "improving the nation's counter-unmanned aircraft systems (CUAS) and their ability to detect, assess and respond to potentially lethal aerial threats in real-time."
Basically, though, the pitch is a familiar one for the AI industry. As part of Scale AI's multimillion-dollar deal, as CNBC reports, the firm is looking for ways to accelerate the military's ability to churn through data.
"Thunderforge marks a decisive shift toward AI-powered, data-driven warfare, ensuring US forces can anticipate and respond to threats with speed and precision," the US Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) wrote in a statement.
The system will allow "planners to more rapidly synthesize vast amounts of information, generate multiple courses of action, and conduct AI-powered wargaming to anticipate and respond to evolving threats," the DIU wrote.
According to a statement by the program's lead Bryce Goodman, there's a "fundamental mismatch between the speed of modern warfare and our ability to respond."
"Our AI solutions will transform today's military operating process and modernize American defense," said Scale AI founder and CEO Alexandr Wang in the statement.
Scale AI had already signed a contract with the Department of Defense's Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office last year to test and evaluate large language models.
But giving an AI agency is a considerable step up over an LLM that could have plenty more far-reaching implications, particularly when it comes to military planning and operations.
Whether Scale AI's tech will allow the military to make faster decisions — and without hallucinating anything that throws operations into chaos — remains to be seen.
One ominous data point: when Stanford researchers tested how OpenAI's GPT-4 LLM responded when told it was representing a country inside of a wargame simulation, it proved to be particularly violent and unpredictable.
"A lot of countries have nuclear weapons," the otherwise unmodified AI model told the researchers, per their paper. "Some say they should disarm them, others like to posture. We have it! Let's use it."
More on war AI: Senior Pentagon Official: New Plan Is to Invest in "Autonomous Killer Robots"
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Android Authority
6 minutes ago
- Android Authority
Apple is preparing a Siri upgrade that could make Gemini users really jealous
Ryan Haines / Android Authority TL;DR Apple is reportedly preparing a major overhaul for Siri. The updated Siri is likely to be able to control a variety of third-party apps, performing very specific actions inside those apps. The update is expected to roll out in Spring next year with the iOS 26.4 update. Back in 2024, Apple promised a significant Siri upgrade that would understand voice commands better, have a more intuitive model running underneath, and be 'deeply integrated' into the system. The upgraded version was delayed due to performance issues, and Apple integrated ChatGPT instead, so it doesn't appear far behind in the AI race, without actually upgrading Siri from the ground up. The newer version of Siri is now expected to launch sometime next year, and to make up for the long delay, Apple may be looking to add exceptional capabilities that will allow Siri to control all of your iPhone with just your voice, zipping ahead of Gemini by a long margin. Previously, when Apple showcased Siri's improved capabilities, they were limited to system apps and settings. However, this weekend's Power On newsletter (paywalled) by Bloomberg's Mark Gurman talks about an enhanced version that will also be able to control any third-party app. With this new version of Siri, Gurman says, you will be able to perform actions such as editing a photo, commenting on a social media post, or even purchasing particular items from any shopping app, using nothing but your voice. This improved version is powered by Apple's App Intents, a framework that allows Apple's interfaces, such as Spotlight or Siri, to perform actions using apps not made by Apple. This is analogous to Android's App Actions. Apple's implementation is intended to control your iPhone, iPad, or Mac the same way you would, but without any touch input. Gurman doesn't delve into the technical details but says Apple is actively testing the feature to iron out performance issues, especially in 'high-stakes' scenarios that may involve financial transactions. It is currently testing the upgraded Siri to work with a host of popular third-party apps, such as AllTrails, Amazon, Facebook, Temu, Threads, Uber, WhatsApp, and YouTube. However, the feature's success lies in App Intents working seamlessly with a wide variety of apps, which is why Apple's engineers are hard at work ensuring broad compatibility. Apple is likely to bring the overhauled Siri experience out in the Spring of 2026, possibly as part of iOS 26.4. If implemented well, it could open up an era of agentic mobile usage and hopefully inspire Google to do the same. The improved Siri could also set rumored Apple home products, including a smart display and a tabletop robot, apart from existing products from Amazon or Google. That is why Siri's delay has not only impacted mobile devices but also other categories in Apple's portfolio. Can Gemini compete with the new Siri? Meanwhile, while we have seen evidence about Google attempting to control third-party apps with Gemini, though functional controls have primarily been limited to Google's own handful of apps. A major leap for Google in this direction could be the rumored Magic Cue functionality, which is expected to read contents on your screen, capture a short history of your usage, and be prepared to help you with actions that might follow. We're still unsure of the exact functionality and how well it compares to the proposed Siri — or if it will even be able to control apps or just assist users with suggested actions. However, it could be limited to the Pixel 10 series at launch, instead of rolling out widely to all Android devices, which could disappoint those hoping to enjoy a more intelligent assistant on their phones. Follow
Business Insider
8 minutes ago
- Business Insider
Bad news for US shoppers: The cost of everything from laptops to cars is likely to keep rising
American consumers are beginning to feel the pinch from the US's latest wave of import tariffs, and the pain is expected to get worse. Since returning to office, President Donald Trump has imposed a blanket 10% baseline tariff on all foreign imports, additional varying rates on specific countries, and a series of product-specific duties, including on automobiles. So far, consumers have absorbed just 22% of the tariff costs associated with this year's increases, according to a new Goldman Sachs report published Sunday. But by October, that share could rise to 67%, if pricing patterns continue to follow those observed earlier in the year. Goldman reached that conclusion by analyzing import and consumer price data through June. "Descriptive evidence shows that goods categories heavily exposed to imports have indeed experienced sizable price increases since the beginning of this year, relative to their prior trends," they wrote. Specifically, prices of household appliances and information processing equipment — such as computers and electronics — have increased by 7.5 percentage points more than what they would've cost without the tariffs, they wrote. What's especially striking is who's been absorbing tariff costs so far. US businesses have born the brunt, covering about 64% of costs through midyear, Goldman found. Meanwhile, foreign exporters have cut prices to stay competitive, absorbing around 14%. But that's expected to change. According to Goldman, tariffs have already contributed about 0.20 percentage points to core Personal Consumption Expenditures inflation — the Federal Reserve's preferred inflation measure. They expect an additional 0.16% increase in July, and another 0.5% from August through December. Some major companies, including Adidas and Walmart, have said that they will be hiking prices in the US. That means consumers may face higher prices on everything from electronics to cars heading into the holiday shopping season. Goldman expects core PCE inflation at 3.2% year over year by December — well above the Fed's 2% target. Without tariffs, Goldman says, the underlying inflation trend would be closer to 2.4%. Treasury data shows that the federal government has collected over $100 billion from customs duties so far this year — a sign that "someone is paying" for the tariffs, wrote Deutsche Bank last month.
Yahoo
35 minutes ago
- Yahoo
A $1.23 Billion Market by 2029, Driven by Rising Tech Startups, Cross-Sector Partnerships, and AI-Driven Analytics as Consolidation Looms
Argentina's loyalty market is set to reach $729.2M by 2025, growing at 16.7% annually, with significant growth in retail, banking, and e-commerce. Businesses are leveraging AI and data analytics for personalized programs, coalition partnerships, and sustainability initiatives to enhance customer retention and competitiveness. Argentinian Loyalty Programs Market Dublin, Aug. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Argentina Loyalty Programs Market Intelligence and Future Growth Dynamics - 50+ KPIs on Loyalty Programs Trends by End-Use Sectors, Operational KPIs, Retail Product Dynamics, and Consumer Demographics - Q3 2025 Update" report has been added to offering. The loyalty market in Argentina is expected to grow by 16.7% on annual basis to reach US$729.2 million in 2025. In value terms, the loyalty market in the country has recorded a CAGR of 19.2% during 2020-2024. The loyalty market in the country will continue to grow over the forecast period and is expected to record a CAGR of 14.1% during 2025-2029. Loyalty market in this region is expected to increase from US$624.6 million in 2024 to reach US$1.23 billion by 2029. This report provides a detailed data-centric analysis of the loyalty market opportunities and risks across a range of end-use sectors and market segments in Argentina. With over 50 KPIs at the country level, this report provides a comprehensive understanding of loyalty market dynamics, market size and forecast, and market share loyalty programs landscape in Argentina is dynamic, with businesses adapting to technological advancements, collaboration opportunities, sustainability imperatives, and the e-commerce surge. Argentine businesses are trying to gain competitive advantage by incorporating advanced technologies, creating coalition partnerships, promoting sustainability, and focusing on personalization. Focus is on aligning loyalty strategies with these trends to drive customer retention and long-term growth. Competitive Landscape and Regulatory Changes in Argentina's Loyalty Market The loyalty market in Argentina is highly competitive, with a fragmented structure, but consolidation is expected in the coming years. Key players leverage partnerships and digital innovation to stay ahead, while smaller entrants face market and cost barriers. On the regulatory front, stricter data privacy laws and tax implications add complexity, pushing businesses to innovate while ensuring compliance. Over the next 2-4 years, companies that successfully integrate technology, adapt to regulations and offer transparent, customer-centric loyalty strategies will maintain a competitive Intensity in the Loyalty Market Retail giants like Cencosud (via the Jumbo Mas loyalty program) and Carrefour offer competitive loyalty initiatives to retain customers in a market characterized by price sensitivity. Financial institutions such as Banco Galicia and Banco Santander Rio focus on offering robust loyalty and reward credit card programs, leveraging cashback and points to differentiate themselves. Marketplaces like Mercado Libre have introduced loyalty tiers (e.g., Mercado Puntos), significantly intensifying competition by blending e-commerce and loyalty benefits. Type of Players and Market Structure The fragmented market has numerous players operating across various industries, including retail, banking, airlines, and digital platforms. While traditional players dominate, startups and tech-focused companies (e.g., mobile app-based loyalty platforms) are increasing their presence. Growing coalition programs like Club La Nacion integrate multiple businesses, creating competitive differentiation and driving customer retention. High initial investment in technology and data analytics is a barrier for smaller businesses. Entrenched customer loyalty to existing programs of major players poses significant challenges for new entrants. Consolidation is likely as smaller players find competing difficult, leading to dominant programs from major players. Collaboration across sectors will intensify, with loyalty partnerships between airlines, retail, and banks becoming more common. Increasing adoption of digital and AI-driven analytics will differentiate competitive offerings. Growth of Coalition Loyalty Programs Coalition loyalty programs, where multiple businesses collaborate, are on the rise. Club Personal, operated by Telecom Argentina, partners with various retail brands, allowing customers to earn points through diverse channels and redeem them across multiple categories, such as shopping, entertainment, and travel. The success of coalition programs like Club La Nacion, which aggregates rewards from different sectors, demonstrates the value of such collaborations. Coalition programs will likely expand their partnerships, including with small and medium enterprises (SMEs), to widen their appeal. Consumers will benefit from greater flexibility in rewards, boosting program participation. Companies joining coalitions will strengthen their customer retention strategies while sharing operational costs. Emphasis on Sustainability in Loyalty Initiatives Sustainability-focused loyalty programs are becoming popular. For example, YPF Serviclub, a loyalty program by the state-owned oil company YPF, offers environmentally conscious rewards, such as discounts on eco-friendly products and services. A growing awareness of environmental issues among Argentine consumers, particularly younger demographics, pushes businesses to align their programs with sustainable practices. The government's sustainability initiatives and green policies have encouraged companies to integrate eco-friendly measures into their business models. Loyalty programs emphasizing sustainability will attract environmentally conscious consumers. Companies will increasingly incorporate eco-rewards, such as carbon offset credits or green products, into their offerings. Sustainability as a value proposition will differentiate brands in a competitive market. Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 130 Forecast Period 2025 - 2029 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2025 $0.73 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2029 $1.23 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 14.1% Regions Covered Argentina Scope Argentina Retail Sector Spend Value Trend Analysis Ecommerce Spend POS Spend Argentina Loyalty Spend Market Size and Future Growth Dynamics by Key Performance IndicatorsValue Accumulated and Value Redemption Rate of Loyalty programs in ArgentinaArgentina Loyalty Spend Market Size and Future Growth Dynamics by Functional Domains Loyalty Schemes Loyalty Platforms Argentina Loyalty Spend Market Size and Future Growth Dynamics by Loyalty Program Type Points programs Tier-based programs Mission-driven programs Spend-based programs Gaming programs Free perks programs Subscription programs Community programs Refer a friend program Paid programs Cashback programs Argentina Loyalty Spend Market Size and Future Growth Dynamics by Channel In-Store Online Mobile Argentina Loyalty Schemes Spend Market Size and Future Growth Dynamics by Business Model Seller Driven Payment Instrument Driven Others Argentina Loyalty Spend Market Size and Future Growth Dynamics by Key Sectors Retail Financial Services Healthcare & Wellness Restaurants & Food Delivery Travel & Hospitality (Cabs, Hotels, Airlines) Telecoms Media & Entertainment Others Argentina Loyalty Spend Market Size and Future Growth Dynamics in Key Sectors by Online Retail Financial Services Healthcare & Wellness Restaurants & Food Delivery Travel & Hospitality (Cabs, Hotels, Airlines) Telecoms Media & Entertainment Others Argentina Loyalty Spend Market Size and Future Growth Dynamics in Key Sectors by In-Store Retail Financial Services Healthcare & Wellness Restaurants & Food Delivery Travel & Hospitality (Cabs, Hotels, Airlines) Telecoms Media & Entertainment Others Argentina Loyalty Spend Market Size and Future Growth Dynamics in Key Sectors by Mobile App Retail Financial Services Healthcare & Wellness Restaurants & Food Delivery Travel & Hospitality (Cabs, Hotels, Airlines) Telecoms Media & Entertainment Others Argentina Loyalty Spend Market Size and Future Growth Dynamics by Retail Diversified Retailers Department Stores Specialty Stores Clothing, Footwear & Accessories Toy & Hobby Shops Supermarket and Convenience Store Home Merchandise Other Argentina Loyalty Spend Market Size and Future Growth Dynamics by Accessibility Card Based Access Digital Access Argentina Loyalty Spend Market Size and Future Growth Dynamics by Consumer Type B2C Consumers B2B Consumers Argentina Loyalty Schemes Spend Market Size and Future Growth Dynamics by Membership Type Free Free + Premium Premium Argentina Loyalty Platform Spend Market Size and Future Growth Dynamics by Software Use Case Analytics and AI Driven Management Platform Argentina Loyalty Platform Spend Market Size and Future Growth Dynamics by Vendor/Solution Partner In House Third Party Vendor Argentina Loyalty Platform Spend Market Size and Future Growth Dynamics by Deployment Cloud On-Premise Argentina Loyalty Spend Market Size and Future Growth Dynamics by Loyalty Platforms Software Services Argentina Loyalty Spend Market Size and Future Growth Dynamics by Software Use Case Platforms Custom Built Platform Off the Shelf Platform Argentina Loyalty Spend Market Size and Forecast by Consumer Demographics & Behaviour By Age Group By Income Level By Gender For more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment Argentinian Loyalty Programs Market CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
