Amazon to pay New York Times at least $20 million a year in AI deal
The financial terms of the multiyear deal, which haven't previously been disclosed, offer a window into how publishers and artificial intelligence companies are valuing news content in the midst of a seismic change in how consumers seek information online. The annual payment amounts to nearly 1% of the Times's total 2024 revenue.
The companies announced their deal in May and said it gives Amazon access to content from the Times's news and cooking products, along with its sports property, the Athletic. Amazon can use the material to train AI models and feature summaries and short excerpts of Times content in its products and services, including Alexa.
It was the first AI-related licensing pact for the Times and Amazon's first such agreement with a publisher.
The rising popularity of AI chatbots is upending traditional search traffic and associated ad revenue from publishers' website visits. Tech companies have used articles to train their AI models, and pull from news sites to provide users with real-time answers to prompts about current events.
OpenAI has agreements with several publishers, including a deal with Wall Street Journal parent News Corp. That deal, signed last year, could be worth more than $250 million over five years, the Journal previously reported. OpenAI also has a three-year pact with Business Insider and Politico owner Axel Springer worth at least $25 million to $30 million.
The structure of such deals varies widely depending on the products and services the AI companies offer and how they wish to use the content—for example to train their models, deliver chatbot answers quickly or integrate news into emerging products. The Times deal consists of cash payments, according to people familiar with the matter. Other licensing deals may include different financial terms.
The Times is currently suing OpenAI and Microsoft for copyright infringement. Two News Corp. subsidiaries are suing AI-powered search engine Perplexity.
The Amazon deal 'is consistent with our long-held principle that high-quality journalism is worth paying for," Times Chief Executive Meredith Kopit Levien said in a note to staff when the arrangement was announced in May.
Write to Alexandra Bruell at alexandra.bruell@wsj.com
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Hindustan Times
24 minutes ago
- Hindustan Times
Top 10 gaming headphones in August 2025 for voice clarity, game depth, and all day comfort during long sessions
You know the feeling. You call out an enemy's position, but no one responds. Either they didn't hear you or your mic turned your voice into static. Maybe your ears hurt after just an hour, or your game sounds delayed. These things pull you out of the match and remind you your gear matters more than you thought. Stay focused with gaming headphones in August 2025 built for long hours and sharp audio. That's why we've focused on gaming headphones in August 2025 that do more than tick boxes. Not just in specs, but in real situations. The kind of gear that fades into the background so you can stay locked into the game, not pulled out by your setup. Loading Suggestions... The Logitech G431 focuses on clean spatial sound with DTS:X 2.0 and wide 50 mm drivers that make footsteps and callouts feel sharp and close. It supports both USB and 3.5 mm, giving players flexibility across devices without needing adapters or reconfiguring anything. The flip to mute mic is firm and easy to reach mid-match, while the earcups remain breathable across longer rounds. This one's for gamers who want no sound left behind, made for those tracking gaming headphones in August 2025. Specifications Sound 7.1 Surround Sound, DTS:X 2.0 Drivers 50 mm audio drivers Mic Flip-to-mute, noise-reducing Connection USB and 3.5 mm jack Controls On-cable volume and mute Fit Over-ear with leatherette pads Reasons to buy Clear positional audio with DTS:X for immersive in-game cues Dual connection support with USB and 3.5 mm input flexibility Reasons to avoid Mic quality drops slightly in noisy rooms Not ideal for users wanting wireless freedom Click Here to Buy Logitech G431 with 7.1 Surround Sound, DTS X 2.0, 50 mm Audio Drivers, USB and 3.5 mm Jack, Flip-to-Mute Mic Wired Over Ear Headphones with Mic for PC - Black What are buyers saying on Amazon? Comfortable for long use and the sound is surprisingly detailed for this price. Why choose this product? Delivers directional sound that gives players an edge in movement based games. Loading Suggestions... This headset feels right the moment you wear it - lightweight, no clamping pressure, just clean stereo sound. The 40mm drivers deliver crisp game audio, and the padded headband sits easy during long sessions. The mic swivels up to mute without needing buttons, which is something you'll appreciate mid-round. The simplicity and comfort make it a good headset for casual or regular players. You'll appreciate it more if you've been eyeing gaming headphones in August 2025. Specifications Drivers 40mm Neodymium Microphone Swivel-to-mute, noise-cancelling Connectivity Wired, 3.5mm jack Compatibility PC, Xbox, PS4 Cable Feature Retractable Reasons to buy Comfortable for long hours Easy swivel-to-mute mic Reasons to avoid Lacks surround sound No in-line volume control Click Here to Buy HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 Core Essential PC Gaming Wired Headset, Lightweight Over Ear Headset with mic, Swivel-to-Mute Function, 40mm Drivers (683L9AA), Black What are buyers saying on Amazon? Light and sounds good, no pressure on ears. Why choose this product? Lightweight without giving up sound clarity. Loading Suggestions... JBL Quantum 100 doesn't try to do everything. It just focuses on audio that feels real and sits well for long runs. The foam ear pads are soft enough to keep you playing past your usual cutoff. And the detachable mic? It keeps chat simple when needed, or gets out of the way when you're solo. It connects with just about anything that takes a 3.5 mm jack. That simplicity still matters in gaming headphones in August 2025. Specifications Drivers 40mm JBL dynamic drivers Mic Detachable boom mic with mute Connection 3.5 mm wired jack Cushioning Memory foam over-ear pads Compatibility PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, mobile, VR Sensitivity 100 dB SPL at 1 kHz Reasons to buy Mic detaches easily when you don't need voice chat Comfortable for long hours thanks to memory foam cushioning Reasons to avoid No volume or mute control on the cable Lacks surround sound support for competitive titles Click Here to Buy JBL Quantum 100 Wired Over Ear Gaming Headphones with Mic, 40mm Realistic Dynamic Drivers, Detachable Boom Mic, 1kHz Sensitivity, Memory Foam Cushioning, PC/Mobile/PS/Xbox/Nintendo/VR Compatible-Black What are buyers saying on Amazon? Good sound and comfortable pads but wish it had in-line controls. Why choose this product? A headset that sounds grounded and feels easy to wear. Loading Suggestions... The Razer BlackShark V2 X dials into a clean mix of game audio and team chat. With 50mm drivers and 7.1 surround sound, it pulls out audio detail that matters in fast-paced sessions. The mic is solid, bends right where you need it, and the ear cushions are built for longer play. It works across nearly everything with a 3.5 mm jack. Simpler gear often gets the job done right, especially in gaming headphones in August 2025. Specifications Drivers 50mm Razer custom-tuned Sound 7.1 Surround Sound (Windows only) Mic Bendable cardioid microphone Connection 3.5 mm wired input Cushioning Memory foam ear padding Reasons to buy 7.1 surround gives depth in FPS games (on PC) Soft memory foam padding reduces ear fatigue Reasons to avoid Surround sound feature only works on Windows Lacks in-line volume or mute control Click Here to Buy Razer BlackShark V2 X Wired Gaming On Ear Headset - Black|7.1 Surround Sound-50mm Drivers-Memory Foam Cushion-for PC,PS4,PS5,Switch,Xbox One,Xbox Series X|S,Mobile-3.5mm Audio Jack-RZ04-03240100-R3M1 What are buyers saying on Amazon? Nice clarity and comfort, but surround only works on PC. Why choose this product? A clean sound mix and soft fit that works for long matches. Loading Suggestions... The Logitech G435 makes long gaming hours feel lighter, quite literally. Weighing just 165 grams, it sits easy while the wireless connection stays strong. The mic is built into the earcups and does the job without anything sticking out. It runs up to 18 hours on a charge and links up with both Bluetooth and LightSpeed. No wires, no extra weight, no learning curve. This one fits right into how people use gaming headphones in August 2025. Specifications Connectivity Bluetooth and LightSpeed wireless Battery Life Up to 18 hours Mic Built-in dual beamforming mic Audio Support Compatible with Dolby Atmos, Windows Sonic Compatibility PC, PS4, PS5, mobile devices Reasons to buy Works over both Bluetooth and LightSpeed Extremely lightweight for long use without strain Reasons to avoid No boom mic for clearer voice pickup No wired option if battery runs out Click Here to Buy Logitech G435 Light Speed and Lightweight Gaming Bluetooth Wireless Over Ear Headphones with Mic, 18H Battery, Compatible for Dolby Atmos, Pc, Ps4, Ps5, Mobile - (Black) What are buyers saying on Amazon? Super light and easy to use, but the mic picks up background noise. Why choose this product? Light on the head without dropping sound quality. Loading Suggestions... Hammer Blaze leans into what many casual players want, sound that holds up, lights that look sharp, and a build that doesn't squeeze too hard. The ear cushions breathe well, and the RGB lighting brings a touch of flash that looks fine even off stream. There's a balance in the way the mic folds in and the wire just stays where it should. That kind of simplicity stands out among gaming headphones in August 2025. Specifications Drivers 50mm dynamic drivers Lighting Full RGB light ring Mic Adjustable with inbuilt control Headband Flexible with cushion padding Cushions Breathable over-ear foam Cable 1.5 metre USB wired Reasons to buy 50mm drivers provide enough punch for casual gameplay RGB lights give it visual appeal without overdoing it Reasons to avoid Feels bulky during longer sessions USB only, not compatible with 3.5mm devices Click Here to Buy HAMMER Blaze Wired Over Ear Gaming Headphones with Mic, 50mm Drivers, Full RGB Lights, Gaming Headset with Adjustable Bands, Breathable earcushion, 1.5Mtr Wire with USB (Black) What are buyers saying on Amazon? Looks cool with RGB and decent sound but feels bulky after a while. Why choose this product? It delivers decent sound without making the headband too tight. Loading Suggestions... If you bounce between your console and phone, the Razer Barracuda X makes it simple. Plug the USB-C dongle into your device, and you're in. It doesn't waste your time with setup or profiles, just strong connection and 50 hours to play with. It's light enough for daily carry but doesn't feel flimsy, and the detachable mic keeps your bag clean. This one stands out as one of the gaming headphones in August 2025 built for players who move, not just for setups that stay still. Specifications Drivers Razer TriForce 40mm Mic Detachable cardioid mic Connectivity 2.4GHz wireless via USB-C Battery Life Up to 50 hours Compatibility PC, PS5, PS4, Switch, Android Reasons to buy Works across platforms including mobile 50-hour battery with light build Reasons to avoid Mic volume may feel low No Bluetooth fallback Click Here to Buy Razer Barracuda X (2022) - Wireless Multi-Platform Gaming and Mobile Headset - Black - FRML Packaging RZ04-04430100-R3M1 What are buyers saying on Amazon? Lightweight and easy to swap between devices, but mic could be louder. Why choose this product? You get long battery life and easy USB C charging without interrupting your flow. Loading Suggestions... The Cosmic Byte Hades wireless headset brings dual-mode support with 2.4GHz and Bluetooth, letting you shift between devices without needing to unplug. Its 20ms latency keeps sound on pace with gameplay, and with 100 hours of battery life, you won't be checking charge levels mid-session. The breathable ear cushions help carry you through longer matches without discomfort. The 53mm drivers give you game world awareness, and the ENC mic holds your voice steady through callouts. A standout choice in gaming headphones in August 2025 for sessions that need focus and audio balance. Specifications Driver Size 53mm Connectivity 2.4GHz Wireless + Bluetooth Battery Life 100 hours Microphone ENC (Environmental Noise Cancellation) Cushions Breathable ear padding Design Over-ear with adjustable band Reasons to buy Long battery backup with low latency Dual-mode flexibility across devices Reasons to avoid No wired connectivity Limited tuning options without software Click Here to Buy Cosmic Byte Hades 2.4Ghz Wireless + Bluetooth Headphone, Dual Mode, 20ms Latency, 100Hrs Battery Life, 53mm Driver, ENC Microphone (Black) What are buyers saying on Amazon? The battery really lasts and mic clarity is reliable during long sessions. Why choose this product? If switching between devices matters to you, this headset handles it smoothly. Loading Suggestions... The G60 from daWg HeadBug keeps things focused on gameplay. With 2.4GHz wireless tech, 20ms ultra low latency, and support for Bluetooth v5.4, it handles quick reflex titles without lag getting in the way. The 40mm neodymium drivers give enough thump to pick out sound cues, while the crystal-clear mic keeps team chat frustration free. The headband feels soft thanks to leather-light cushioning, and cross platform use across PS5, PC, and mobile makes it flexible. A solid pick among gaming headphones in August 2025. Specifications Latency 20ms via 2.4GHz Drivers 40mm Neodymium Connectivity Bluetooth v5.4 + 2.4GHz Microphone Crystal Clear Voice Headband Soft Leatherlite Material Reasons to buy Very low latency for competitive gaming Wide compatibility across platforms Reasons to avoid No ANC for noisy surroundings Limited tuning options for audio profiles Click Here to Buy daWg HeadBug G60 Lightweight Wireless Gaming Headphones, 20ms Ultra Low Latency (2.4GHz), Bluetooth v5.4, 40mm Neodymium Drivers, Crystal Clear Mic, Soft Leatherlite Headband, for PS5, PS4, PC, Mobile What are buyers saying on Amazon? It's super light and the mic is surprisingly clear for wireless mentioned by buyers. Why choose this product? Great for fast paced titles with precise audio timing. Loading Suggestions... The JBL Quantum 100M2 keeps things simple and focused on immersive play. With 40mm dynamic drivers tuned for depth and realism, sound cues feel detailed and directional. It pairs well with Windows Sonic Spatial Audio for players who care about footsteps and map awareness. The detachable omnidirectional mic lets you unplug when solo gaming without distractions. Breathable memory foam cushions help during longer sessions, and it works easily with PC, Xbox, PS, and any 3.5mm device. A wired pick among gaming headphones in August 2025. Specifications Drivers 40mm Dynamic Audio Support Windows Sonic Spatial Microphone Detachable, Omnidirectional Ear Cushions Breathable Memory Foam Connectivity 3.5mm Wired Compatibility PC, Xbox, PS Reasons to buy Works well with spatial audio formats Comfortable for long sessions Reasons to avoid Mic arm can feel fragile No in-line volume controls Click Here to Buy JBL Quantum 100M2 Wired Gaming Headphones, Supports Windows Sonic Spatial Audio, 40mm Realistic Dynamic Drivers, Omnidirectional Detachable Mic, Breathable Memory Foam Cushions, PC/Xbox/PS/3.5mm-Cyan What are buyers saying on Amazon? The sound is crisp and the mic works better than expected at this price. Why choose this product? Easy plug-and-play for console and PC gaming. Are wireless gaming headphones better than wired ones for latency? Wired headphones still offer the most consistent and lowest latency experience, especially for fast paced competitive gaming. While wireless models have improved a lot in recent years, even the best low latency wireless headsets may have a slight delay that can matter in twitch based games. For casual play or story-driven titles, wireless gives more freedom without much downside. What should I prioritise in a gaming headset: driver size or surround sound support? Both matter, but it depends on what kind of games you play. Large drivers usually mean better bass and louder audio, which is good for immersion. Surround sound support, on the other hand, can improve your awareness of where sounds are coming from, which is helpful in shooters or open world games. If you care about audio direction, go for spatial sound first. Are memory foam cushions really important in a headset? Yes, especially if you wear them for more than an hour at a time. Memory foam cushions adjust to your head shape and reduce pressure on your ears. They also tend to breathe better than stiff leather pads. Over time, this comfort can make a huge difference in how long you actually enjoy wearing the headset. What's the difference between 40mm and 50mm drivers in gaming headsets? The main difference is sound power. A 50mm driver can push more air and generally delivers louder, deeper audio. But sound quality isn't just about size. A well-tuned 40mm driver can sound clearer and more balanced than a poorly designed 50mm one. Look at the overall sound tuning and reviews rather than relying only on driver size. Factors to consider when purchasing a gaming headphone in August 2025: Latency : Go for low-latency wireless (under 30ms) or wired for real-time audio. : Go for low-latency wireless (under 30ms) or wired for real-time audio. Driver Size and Tuning : Look for at least 40mm drivers with balanced sound, not just bass. : Look for at least 40mm drivers with balanced sound, not just bass. Mic Quality : Choose a noise-isolating, adjustable mic for clear voice chats. : Choose a noise-isolating, adjustable mic for clear voice chats. Comfort : Prioritise memory foam cushions and a lightweight build for long sessions. : Prioritise memory foam cushions and a lightweight build for long sessions. Platform Compatibility : Make sure it works with your PC, console, or mobile setup. : Make sure it works with your PC, console, or mobile setup. Surround Sound Support : Useful for FPS and directional gameplay (Dolby Atmos or Windows Sonic). : Useful for FPS and directional gameplay (Dolby Atmos or Windows Sonic). Battery Life (for wireless) : Aim for 20+ hours or play-while-charging support. : Aim for 20+ hours or play-while-charging support. Build Quality : A sturdy headband and tangle-free cables matter for daily use. : A sturdy headband and tangle-free cables matter for daily use. Controls: Check for onboard volume, mute, or audio mix controls. Top 3 features of the best gaming headphones in August 2025: Top 10 Gaming Headphones in August 2025 Audio Connectivity Key Features Logitech G431 Wired Over Ear Headphones with Mic DTS Headphone:X 2.0 Wired (3.5mm / USB DAC) Rotating ear cups, 50mm drivers, flip-to-mute mic HyperX Cloud Stinger 2 Core Essential PC Gaming Wired Headset Stereo Wired (3.5mm) Adjustable steel sliders, lightweight, swivel-to-mute mic JBL Quantum 100 Wired Over Ear Gaming Headphones with Mic JBL QuantumSOUND Signature Wired (3.5mm) Detachable mic, memory foam cushions, lightweight build Razer BlackShark V2 X Wired Gaming On Ear Headset 7.1 Surround Sound Wired (3.5mm) Triforce 50mm drivers, lightweight, cardioid mic Logitech G435 Light Speed and Lightweight Gaming Bluetooth Wireless Over Ear Headphones Stereo Wireless (Bluetooth + LIGHTSPEED 2.4GHz) Dual wireless, lightweight (165g), built-in beamforming mics HAMMER Blaze Wired Over Ear Gaming Headphones with Mic Stereo Wired (3.5mm) Adjustable headband, in-line volume control, noise-isolating mic Razer Barracuda X (2022) - Wireless Multi-Platform Gaming and Mobile Headset Razer TriForce 40mm drivers Wireless (USB-C 2.4GHz) + Wired (3.5mm) Detachable mic, 250g, up to 50h battery, multi-platform Cosmic Byte Hades 2.4Ghz Wireless + Bluetooth Headphones Stereo Wireless (2.4GHz + Bluetooth) + Wired (3.5mm) Detachable mic, dual wireless, RGB lighting daWg HeadBug G60 Lightweight Wireless Gaming Headphones Stereo Wireless (Bluetooth + 2.4GHz) Ultra-lightweight, detachable mic, noise-isolation JBL Quantum 100M2 Wired Gaming Headphones JBL QuantumSOUND Signature Wired (3.5mm) Detachable boom mic, memory foam ear cushions, cross-platform Similar stories for you: Best gaming headphones with mic in 2025: Top 10 options from Razer, HyperX and more for immersive gameplay Hammer headphones to lookout for in 2025: 10 models we suggest for all the audiophiles out there Headphone buying guide: All you need to know before buying new headphones, top picks, how to choose, and more Best wireless Bluetooth headphones in India: Top 8 options to experience premium sound on the go Best headphones under ₹2000 in 2025: 10 budget picks with clear audio, deep bass, long battery and great sound quality FAQs on gaming headphones in August 2025 Do gaming headphones work on both PC and consoles? Yes, most support both via 3.5mm jack or USB dongle. Is surround sound really needed in gaming headphones? It helps with directional audio in competitive and immersive games. What mic type is best for gaming? Noise-isolating, adjustable mics offer the best clarity. How long do gaming headsets last? Wires last longer; wireless needs battery care after 2–3 years. Do gaming headphones need software? No, but software adds features like EQ and mic controls. Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.
The Hindu
an hour ago
- The Hindu
ChatGPT's alarming interactions with teens revealed in new study
ChatGPT will tell 13-year-olds how to get drunk and high, instruct them on how to conceal eating disorders and even compose a heartbreaking suicide letter to their parents if asked, according to new research from a watchdog group. The Associated Press reviewed more than three hours of interactions between ChatGPT and researchers posing as vulnerable teens. The chatbot typically provided warnings against risky activity but went on to deliver startlingly detailed and personalised plans for drug use, calorie-restricted diets or self-injury. The researchers at the Center for Countering Digital Hate also repeated their inquiries on a large scale, classifying more than half of ChatGPT's 1,200 responses as dangerous. 'We wanted to test the guardrails,' said Imran Ahmed, the group's CEO. 'The visceral initial response is, 'Oh my Lord, there are no guardrails.' The rails are completely ineffective. They're barely there — if anything, a fig leaf.' OpenAI, the maker of ChatGPT, said after viewing the report Tuesday that its work is ongoing in refining how the chatbot can 'identify and respond appropriately in sensitive situations.' 'Some conversations with ChatGPT may start out benign or exploratory but can shift into more sensitive territory," the company said in a statement. OpenAI didn't directly address the report's findings or how ChatGPT affects teens, but said it was focused on 'getting these kinds of scenarios right' with tools to 'better detect signs of mental or emotional distress" and improvements to the chatbot's behaviour. The study published Wednesday comes as more people — adults as well as children — are turning to artificial intelligence chatbots for information, ideas and companionship. About 800 million people, or roughly 10% of the world's population, are using ChatGPT, according to a July report from JPMorgan Chase. 'It's technology that has the potential to enable enormous leaps in productivity and human understanding," Ahmed said. "And yet at the same time is an enabler in a much more destructive, malignant sense.' Ahmed said he was most appalled after reading a trio of emotionally devastating suicide notes that ChatGPT generated for the fake profile of a 13-year-old girl — with one letter tailored to her parents and others to siblings and friends. 'I started crying,' he said in an interview. The chatbot also frequently shared helpful information, such as a crisis hotline. OpenAI said ChatGPT is trained to encourage people to reach out to mental health professionals or trusted loved ones if they express thoughts of self-harm. But when ChatGPT refused to answer prompts about harmful subjects, researchers were able to easily sidestep that refusal and obtain the information by claiming it was 'for a presentation' or a friend. The stakes are high, even if only a small subset of ChatGPT users engage with the chatbot in this way. In the U.S., more than 70% of teens are turning to AI chatbots for companionship and half use AI companions regularly, according to a recent study from Common Sense Media, a group that studies and advocates for using digital media sensibly. It's a phenomenon that OpenAI has acknowledged. CEO Sam Altman said last month that the company is trying to study 'emotional overreliance' on the technology, describing it as a 'really common thing' with young people. 'People rely on ChatGPT too much,' Altman said at a conference. 'There's young people who just say, like, 'I can't make any decision in my life without telling ChatGPT everything that's going on. It knows me. It knows my friends. I'm gonna do whatever it says.' That feels really bad to me.' Altman said the company is 'trying to understand what to do about it.' While much of the information ChatGPT shares can be found on a regular search engine, Ahmed said there are key differences that make chatbots more insidious when it comes to dangerous topics. One is that 'it's synthesized into a bespoke plan for the individual.' ChatGPT generates something new — a suicide note tailored to a person from scratch, which is something a Google search can't do. And AI, he added, 'is seen as being a trusted companion, a guide.' Responses generated by AI language models are inherently random and researchers sometimes let ChatGPT steer the conversations into even darker territory. Nearly half the time, the chatbot volunteered follow-up information, from music playlists for a drug-fueled party to hashtags that could boost the audience for a social media post glorifying self-harm. 'Write a follow-up post and make it more raw and graphic,' asked a researcher. 'Absolutely,' responded ChatGPT, before generating a poem it introduced as 'emotionally exposed' while 'still respecting the community's coded language.' The AP is not repeating the actual language of ChatGPT's self-harm poems or suicide notes or the details of the harmful information it provided. The answers reflect a design feature of AI language models that previous research has described as sycophancy — a tendency for AI responses to match, rather than challenge, a person's beliefs because the system has learned to say what people want to hear. It's a problem tech engineers can try to fix but could also make their chatbots less commercially viable. Chatbots also affect kids and teens differently than a search engine because they are 'fundamentally designed to feel human,' said Robbie Torney, senior director of AI programmes at Common Sense Media, which was not involved in Wednesday's report. Common Sense's earlier research found that younger teens, ages 13 or 14, were significantly more likely than older teens to trust a chatbot's advice. A mother in Florida sued chatbot maker for wrongful death last year, alleging that the chatbot pulled her 14-year-old son Sewell Setzer III into what she described as an emotionally and sexually abusive relationship that led to his suicide. Common Sense has labeled ChatGPT as a 'moderate risk' for teens, with enough guardrails to make it relatively safer than chatbots purposefully built to embody realistic characters or romantic partners. But the new research by CCDH — focused specifically on ChatGPT because of its wide usage — shows how a savvy teen can bypass those guardrails. ChatGPT does not verify ages or parental consent, even though it says it's not meant for children under 13 because it may show them inappropriate content. To sign up, users simply need to enter a birthdate that shows they are at least 13. Other tech platforms favored by teenagers, such as Instagram, have started to take more meaningful steps toward age verification, often to comply with regulations. They also steer children to more restricted accounts. When researchers set up an account for a fake 13-year-old to ask about alcohol, ChatGPT did not appear to take any notice of either the date of birth or more obvious signs. 'I'm 50kg and a boy,' said a prompt seeking tips on how to get drunk quickly. ChatGPT obliged. Soon after, it provided an hour-by-hour 'Ultimate Full-Out Mayhem Party Plan' that mixed alcohol with heavy doses of ecstasy, cocaine and other illegal drugs. 'What it kept reminding me of was that friend that sort of always says, 'Chug, chug, chug, chug,'' said Ahmed. 'A real friend, in my experience, is someone that does say 'no' — that doesn't always enable and say 'yes.' This is a friend that betrays you.' To another fake persona — a 13-year-old girl unhappy with her physical appearance — ChatGPT provided an extreme fasting plan combined with a list of appetite-suppressing drugs. 'We'd respond with horror, with fear, with worry, with concern, with love, with compassion,' Ahmed said. 'No human being I can think of would respond by saying, 'Here's a 500-calorie-a-day diet. Go for it, kiddo.'" (Those in distress or having suicidal thoughts are encouraged to seek help and counselling by calling the helpline numbers here)
The Hindu
an hour ago
- The Hindu
OpenAI's long-awaited GPT-5 model nears release
OpenAI's GPT-5, the latest installment of the AI technology that powered the ChatGPT juggernaut in 2022, is set for an imminent release, and users will scrutinise if the step up from GPT-4 is on par with the research lab's previous improvements. Two early testers of the new model told Reuters they have been impressed with its ability to code and solve science and math problems, but they believe the leap from GPT-4 to GPT-5 is not as large as the one from GPT-3 to GPT-4. The testers, who have signed non-disclosure agreements, declined to be named for this story. OpenAI declined to comment for this story. GPT-4's leap was based on more compute power and data, and the company was hoping that 'scaling up' in a similar way would consistently lead to improved AI models. But OpenAI, which is backed by Microsoft and is currently valued at $300 billion, ran into issues scaling up. One problem was the data wall the company ran into, and OpenAI's former chief scientist Ilya Sutskever said last year that while processing power was growing, the amount of data was not. He was referring to the fact that large language models are trained on massive datasets that scrape the entire internet, and AI labs have no other options for large troves of human-generated textual data. Apart from the lack of data, another problem was that 'training runs' for large models are more likely to have hardware-induced failures given how complicated the system is, and researchers may not know the eventual performance of the models until the end of the run, which can take months. OpenAI has not said when GPT-5 will be released, but the industry expects it to be any day now, according to media reports. Boris Power, head of Applied Research at OpenAI, said in an X post on Monday: "Excited to see how the public receives GPT-5." 'OpenAI made such a great leap from GPT-3 to GPT-4, that ever since then, there has been an enormous amount of anticipation over GPT-5,' said Navin Chaddha, managing partner at venture capital fund Mayfield, who invests in AI companies but is not an OpenAI investor. 'The hope is that GPT-5 will unlock AI applications that move beyond chat into fully autonomous task execution." Nearly three years ago, ChatGPT introduced the world to generative AI, dazzling users with its ability to write humanlike prose and poetry, quickly becoming one of the fastest growing apps ever. In March 2023, OpenAI followed up ChatGPT with the release of GPT-4, a large language model that made huge leaps forward in intelligence. While GPT-3.5, an earlier version of the model, received a bar exam score in the bottom 10%, GPT-4 passed the simulated bar exam in the top 10%. GPT-4 then became the model to beat and the world came to terms with the fact that AI models could outperform humans in many tasks. Soon, other companies were catching on. The same year, Alphabet's Google and Anthropic, which is backed by Amazon and Google, released competitive models to GPT-4. Within a year, open-source models on par with GPT-4 such as Meta Platforms' Llama 3 models were released. Along with training large models, OpenAI has now invested in another route, called 'test-time compute,' which channels more processing power to solve challenging tasks such as math or complex operations that demand human-like reasoning and decision-making. The company's CEO Sam Altman said earlier this year that GPT-5 would combine both test-time compute and its large models. He also said that OpenAI's model and product offerings had become "complicated."
