Apple AI tool transcribed the word 'racist' as 'Trump'
Apple says it is working to fix its speech-to-text tool after some social media users found that when they spoke the word "racist" into their iPhones it typed it out as "Trump."The tech giant has suggested the issue with its Dictation service has been caused by a problem it has distinguishing between words with an "r" in them."We are aware of an issue with the speech recognition model that powers Dictation and we are rolling out a fix today," an Apple spokesperson said. However an expert in speech recognition told the BBC this explanation was "just not plausible." Peter Bell, professor of speech technology at the University of Edinburgh, said it was more likely that someone had altered the underlying software that the tool used.
Videos shared online show people speaking the word "racist" into the Dictation tool.Sometimes it is transcribed correctly - but on other occasions it is turned into "Trump", before being quickly restored to the correct word.The BBC has not been able to replicate the mistake, suggesting Apple's fix is already taking effect.Prof Bell said Apple's explanation of phonetic overlap did not make sense because the two words were not similar enough to confuse an artificial intelligence (AI) system.Speech-to-text recognition models are trained by inputting clips of real people speaking alongside an accurate transcript of what they say.They are also taught to understand words in context - for example, they could distinguish the word "cup" from "cut" if it was within the phrase "a cup of tea".Prof Bell says the situation with Apple is unlikely to be a genuine mistake with its data because its English language model would be trained on hundreds of thousands of hours of speech, which should give it a high level of accuracy. For "less well-resourced languages" he said it could be an AI training issue.But he said in this case: "it probably points to somebody that's got access to the process."A former Apple employee who worked on its AI assistant Siri told the New York Times: "This smells like a serious prank."
Apple had to row back on another AI-powered feature last month after complaints from the BBC and other news organisations. It suspended its AI summaries of news headlines after it displayed false notifications on stories - including one where it said tennis player Rafael Nadal had come out as gay.The company announced yesterday it would be investing $500bn (£395bn) in the US over the next four year, including on a large data centre in Texas to power Apple Intelligence.The company's chief executive Tim Cook also said it may have to change its policies on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) after President Donald Trump has called for an end to DEI programmes.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Wales Online
an hour ago
- Wales Online
Lords' objections to Data Bill over copyright threatens its existence
Lords' objections to Data Bill over copyright threatens its existence – minister Sir Chris Bryant said the continued parliamentary ping-pong, where a bill bounces back and forth between the Lords and the Commons could "imperil" the Bill Protesters in central London in May called on the Government to ditch plans to allow AI tech firms to steal their work without payment or permission (Image: PA Wire/PA Images ) The continued refusal by the House of Lords to pass the Data Bill threatens its existence altogether, a minister has said, as the Commons passed an amendment to head off a challenge from peers. Sir Chris Bryant said the continued parliamentary ping-pong, where a bill bounces back and forth between the Lords and the Commons could "imperil" the Bill. The critical stand-off arose as artists and musicians including Sir Elton John and Sir Paul McCartney, raised concerns over AI companies using copyrighted work without permission. Baroness Kidron, who directed the second Bridget Jones film, had put forward an amendment aiming to ensure copyright holders could see when their work had been used, which was overwhelmingly passed by the Lords for the second time last week. However this has not won Government backing. In a concession to win around the Lords, the Government has instead said it will give a parliamentary statement six months after the passage of the Bill, where it will update MPs and peers on an economic impact assessment, and a report on the use of copyright works in the development of AI. A parliamentary working group will also be established. Article continues below Technology minister Sir Chris said the amendments showed the Government had "unequivocally heard concerns". However Conservative chairwoman of the Culture, Media and Sport select committee Dame Caroline Dinenage said MPs had been "gaslit". MPs voted in favour of the Government's amendment, which replace the changes put forward by Lady Kidron, by 304 votes to 189, majority 115. These will now go back to the Lords for peers to approve. During the last session in the Lords, where Lady Kidron had successfully forward her amendment, she told peers it she would not hold up the Bill further if the Commons chose to disagree with it. MPs heard the Bill will help establish digital verification services, a new national underground asset register which could speed up roadworks, and allow better healthcare and policing. It would also renew UK and EU data protection laws. The current agreement with Brussels will run out in December. Speaking at the start of the Bill, Sir Chris said: "Double insistence would kill the Bill, where ever the Bill has started. I take people at their word when they say that they don't want to kill the Bill." Sir Chris added: "Its provisions have the support of all parties in both Houses. "Which is why I urge this House to accept our amendments in lieu. "And I urge their Lordships not to insist on their amendment, but to agree with us. "It is worth pointing out, that if their Lordships do persist, they are not just delaying and imperilling a Bill which all parties agree is an important and necessary piece of legislation. "They are also imperilling something else of much greater significance and importance economically; our data adequacy with the European Union." He said he was "mystified" by Liberal Democrat and Conservative opposition to the Bill. "These amendments show our commitment to ensuring considered and effective solutions as I have just outlined, and demonstrate that we have unequivocally heard concerns about timing and accountability." Conservative shadow technology minister Dr Ben Spencer said the creative industries and peers "were not buying" the Government's approach. He said: "They're not buying it because the Government has lost the confidence of their stakeholders that it will bring forward legislation to enact effective and proportionate transparency requirements for AI models in the use of their creative content." Dame Caroline said Sir Chris and the Government were not engaging with the central issue. She said: "By being cloth-eared to the legitimate concerns of the world-leading creative industries for month after month after month; they have been virtually dragged kicking and screaming to this position now, where they bring forward a couple of tiny amendments. "By gaslighting members of all parties at both ends of this building who have attempted to draw attention to this. "By somehow pitting our world-leading creative industries against AI, almost somehow presenting them as luddites, that they are somehow allergic to innovation and technology when actually these are some of the most groundbreaking and innovative sectors out there; they are using AI every single day to produce world-breaking pieces of creative content." Responding, Sir Chris said: "I would just say to her (Dame Caroline) that she clearly has forgotten that the previous government actually introduced plans which would have brought forward a text and data mining exemption for commercial exploitation of copyrighted materials without any additional protections for creative industries at all. "That seems to have slipped her mind. Article continues below "We have moved a considerable deal since this Bill started. "We have moved and we have listened to what their lordships and, more importantly, what the creative industries have to say in this."
Reuters
an hour ago
- Reuters
Saab and Helsing pit AI-piloted warplane against real fighter pilot
PARIS, June 11 (Reuters) - Sweden's Saab ( opens new tab and German defence startup Helsing have conducted combat testing of a Gripen E warplane flown by AI against a real fighter pilot, they said on Wednesday, in a step forward in European efforts to compete on autonomy in defence. Last week's trial is the first publicly known instance of artificial intelligence being tested in a warplane beyond visual range (BVR) rather than in a close-range dogfight, or that AI has controlled a fully fledged jet rather than a test plane. In May last year, then-U.S. Air Force secretary Frank Kendall flew in a modified F-16 called X-62A VISTA fitted with machine learning supplied by Shield AI to demonstrate the ability of AI to enter aerial battle with a crewed F-16. The European trials, known as "Project Beyond", included three flights carried out between May 28 and June 3, the last of which pitted Helsing's "Centaur" AI agent piloting a Gripen E against a human-operated Gripen D fighter jet, the companies said. Funded by the Swedish government, the trial was inconclusive on whether the human Top Gun or the AI-powered foe performed better, but the trial highlights an increasing focus on integrating AI and autonomy into combat systems. "I would say it is not a given who will win... you have to be on your game as a pilot," Saab's Chief Innovation Officer Marcus Wandt, who is also a Swedish astronaut and ex-fighter pilot, told reporters. "If you need to retrain for a new weapon system or new tactics, it will be difficult to stay on par. Right now there are still pilots out there that will have a chance, but that will change fast." The trial comes as Saab is exploring concepts for the next generation of combat jets expected to combine crewed and uncrewed planes, under Sweden's KFS future air combat study. Sweden has not decided whether to continue to pursue its own independent fighter plane as a successor to Saab's home-grown Gripen. It was previously involved with Britain's Tempest fighter project, but pulled back to focus on its own research as the programme widened to include Japan and Italy. The other major European fighter in the works is the Franco-German-Spanish fighter programme widely known as SCAF. Kendall, who stepped down with the outgoing Biden administration after leading the U.S. next-generation fighter project that laid the groundwork for the recently launched F-47, has said AI decision-making will routinely overpower humans. However, Western projects for incorporating AI into weapons systems call for humans to be able to intervene at some point. Saab and Helsing executives said the AI initiative exemplified the need for fast development timelines and dismissed the 10- or 15-year timetables of rival projects. Details of their trial were unveiled ahead of next week's Paris Airshow, following months of simulator work in which the executives said the Centaur AI agent was fed the equivalent of 30 years' of experience every week.
Geeky Gadgets
an hour ago
- Geeky Gadgets
WWDC 2025 Software Deep Dive: What's Hot & What's Not
Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025 delivered a robust lineup of software updates, emphasizing innovation, user-centric design, and enhanced privacy measures. The event showcased Apple's commitment to refining its ecosystem, offering tools and features that cater to both everyday users and developers. From personalized interfaces to advanced developer resources, WWDC 2025 underscored Apple's vision for a seamless, secure, and integrated digital experience. Below is an in-depth exploration of the key updates and their broader implications in a new video from Mrwhosetheboss. Watch this video on YouTube. iOS: Personalization and Privacy at the Forefront The latest iOS updates bring a new level of personalization and privacy to your device. Expanded customization options allow you to configure widgets, lock screens, and app layouts to reflect your unique preferences. This flexibility ensures that your iPhone feels more personal and tailored to your needs. On the privacy front, Apple has doubled down on its commitment to safeguarding user data. Enhanced app tracking transparency gives you greater control over how your data is shared, while on-device processing ensures sensitive information remains secure. These updates not only reinforce Apple's leadership in privacy but also set a higher standard for the industry, empowering you to use your device with confidence. macOS: Seamless Integration and Optimized Performance The macOS update focuses on creating a more integrated and efficient experience across Apple's ecosystem. A refreshed interface simplifies navigation while maintaining the platform's signature aesthetic. This design evolution ensures that macOS remains intuitive for both new and experienced users. Performance enhancements make multitasking smoother, allowing you to run multiple apps simultaneously without compromising speed. Features like Universal Control allow you to transition effortlessly between your Mac, iPad, and iPhone, creating a unified workflow. These updates solidify macOS as the central hub for productivity, making sure that your devices work together seamlessly to enhance your daily tasks. watchOS: Advancing Health and Wellness The latest watchOS update transforms the Apple Watch into an even more comprehensive tool for health and wellness. New metrics for workouts and sleep analysis provide deeper insights into your physical health, helping you track progress and set meaningful goals. Mental health tools, such as mood journaling and stress monitoring, expand the device's capabilities, addressing both physical and emotional well-being. These features make the Apple Watch a versatile companion for managing overall health. Additionally, updated watch faces and improved app functionality enhance usability, making sure that the device remains both practical and stylish. iPadOS: Redefining Productivity and Creativity iPadOS updates are designed to elevate the iPad's role as a tool for productivity and creativity. Enhanced multitasking features, including improved Split View and Stage Manager, make it easier to manage multiple apps simultaneously. These tools streamline workflows, allowing you to switch between tasks with minimal effort. Apple Pencil integration has also been refined, introducing features like hover detection and improved handwriting recognition. These updates enhance the iPad's appeal to professionals and creatives, bridging the gap between tablets and laptops. Whether you're sketching, writing, or managing complex projects, the iPad continues to evolve as a powerful and versatile device. tvOS: Elevating Entertainment and Gaming The latest tvOS updates aim to transform Apple TV into a more dynamic entertainment hub. A redesigned interface simplifies content discovery, making it easier to find shows and movies that match your preferences. Improved recommendation algorithms ensure that your viewing experience is tailored to your tastes. For gamers, expanded support for third-party controllers and the introduction of new game titles enhance Apple TV's appeal. These updates position the platform as a compelling choice for both casual and serious gamers, blending entertainment and gaming into a single, cohesive experience. Developer Tools: Fostering Innovation WWDC 2025 introduced a suite of advanced tools and APIs designed to empower developers. These resources enable you to create more innovative apps by using innovative technologies such as machine learning, augmented reality, and cross-platform compatibility. Apple's focus on simplifying the development process ensures that developers of all skill levels can contribute to the app ecosystem. By providing robust tools and clear documentation, Apple continues to foster a community of innovation, making sure that its platforms remain vibrant and diverse. A Unified Vision for Apple's Ecosystem WWDC 2025 highlighted Apple's dedication to enhancing its software ecosystem through thoughtful updates that prioritize integration, performance, and user experience. Whether you're a casual user, a professional, or a developer, these updates deliver meaningful improvements across all platforms. By focusing on seamless connectivity and robust functionality, Apple continues to set the standard for software excellence, making sure its ecosystem remains both innovative and user-focused. Dive deeper into WWDC 2025 with other articles and guides we have written below. Source & Image Credit: Mrwhosetheboss Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Technology News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
