The Spin: the ‘Gouda news', the ‘Bada news' and the worse
This year, The Spin spotted a Google Super Bowl commercial for its Gemini AI tool, which included an inaccurate statistic about Gouda cheese – that it accounts 'for 50 to 60 per cent of the world's cheese consumption'. While Google recreated the ad to fix the fact, and reposted the corrected ad, it wasn't fast enough to stop the social media storm around it.
Many content creators called it out as a hallucination, but Google's President of Cloud Applications Jerry Dischler was quick to point out that it wasn't a made-up stat – just a factually incorrect one commonly cited on the web. In Dischler's words, 'Gouda news: many love this cheese! Bada news: not everyone thinks it's as grate.' The jury's still out on whether AI ought to know better.
Speaking of inaccurate statistics and hallucinations, looks like humans are as culpable as AI (if not more). The Spin found a convoluted write-up following Indian utility giant Reliance Power's earnings release for the October-December quarter of the 2024-25 financial year.
An article published by Times Now reported inaccurate net profit figures not once, but twice – comically enough – mixing up even the notations belonging to two different numbering systems in the process. Between the headline, sub-headline and the introductory paragraph, the net profit was reported as 'Rs 419.5 crore', 'Rs 419.5 million' and 'Rs 41.95 crore'. Go figure.
Another major topic of discussion in early 2025 has been the ubiquitous rollback of DEI across US governmental entities and the military, following US President Donald Trump's return to the Oval Office.
During Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth's confirmation hearing, Republican lawmakers – and their retinues – were so focused on their agenda of taking DEI out of the military that they inadvertently, and quite literally, took the 'I' out of 'MILITARY'.
An Associated Press photographer immortalised the blunder on the printed board behind Republican Senator Eric Schmitt and Republican Senator Ted Budd, which read, 'DEI in our Miltary.'
The Spin also received a fun submission from the Indian city of Bengaluru, where the road signs in the local language of Kannada are spelt correctly in the local script, but unfortunately lack consistency when translated to English.
For those visiting the city and unfamiliar with the lay of the land, it makes a convincing argument that this could well be directions to two different places that sound similar – which The Spin has confirmed it's not.
Also arriving in The Spin's inbox this month, we've got a fire extinguisher that looks more like a flamethrower, models unwittingly wearing their watches upside down, and an AI-generated creative for eBay that has a hand that doesn't fit well in an ad that claims the 'perfect fit'.
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The National
6 hours ago
- The National
Why Perplexity's bold $34.5bn bid for Google Chrome is a wake-up call for the browser giants
Perplexity, the US-based artificial intelligence start-up challenging Google's search supremacy, has made its boldest move yet. Its unsolicited $34.5 billion bid for Google's Chrome browser follows last week's announcement that San Francisco-based Perplexity teamed up with the Trump Media and Technology Group for a public beta testing of an AI search feature called Truth Search AI. The move highlights the growing influence of AI in all corners of tech – giving upstarts the confidence to challenge the majors, no matter how dominant they are. Number crunch Perplexity's $34.5 billion offer is nearly twice the size of its own valuation, which is pegged at about $18 billion following a recent $100 million funding round. That makes the bid "unusual", especially as Perplexity is a young company, said Jesse Jarvis, chief executive of London-based AI company Kaiko Studios. The offer also comes at a time when Google is under scrutiny from US authorities, contending with a legal battle to prevent a forced sale of its browser. Similar to other AI firms, Perplexity is also working on its own browser, which could come as a direct competitor if the offer does not go through, Mr Jarvis said. "As a result, we could see a new 'browser war' waged between major AI players in a bid to change how billions use the internet." Even the company's chatbot Perplexity Ask was perplexed, implying it may all be a publicity stunt, complete with key details. "They're claiming they've lined up enough funding from big investors to cover the offer, but commentators see it as more of a bold marketing play since Google hasn't put Chrome up for sale and could fight any forced divestment for years," it said in its response on X. Speaking of billions, Chrome is the most-used web browser in the world, commanding a share of more than two thirds and comfortably ahead of Apple's second-placed Safari, data from StatCounter shows. That would translate into about 3.69 billion users, according to estimates from Backlinko. What's Perplexity's ploy? Perplexity might be aiming to transform the core function of browsers, which have basically been page navigators and a base for questions and answers. AI, of course, is changing that: Google has already incorporated AI Overview on Chrome itself as the top answer to queries, giving a snapshot of the topic searched. Perplexity or any other company designing their own browser can tap into the potential of making them a "conversational 'answer engine' that directly synthesises information for the user", said Joshua Mathias, head of communications at Dubai-based C2 Comms, which specialises in data and analytics. "This bid is exceptionally unique and represents a potential turning point for the web," he told The National. "While many browsers are adding AI features like summarisation or chatbots, these are often integrated as supplementary tools within the existing browser framework. "This offer is different because it comes from an AI-native company seeking to acquire the world's most dominant browser." Perplexity's bid validates the market for AI-native browsers, sending a powerful signal to investors, developers and the tech industry that a browser built with AI at its core is the next major frontier, Mr Mathias said. "This public validation will likely unlock more funding for start-ups in this space and encourage larger companies to shift their own AI browser projects from experimental features to core strategic initiatives," he added. Alphabet and Google have not indicated that Chrome, or any of its other units, are up for grabs, despite all the legal pressures. Analysts expect the company to maintain its dominance – and given legal proceedings can be drawn out, that might give the tech giant the leeway to shield its assets. The legal process, including appeals, could take many years, "leaving Chrome under Alphabet's control, staving off potential offers and pushing others to focus on their own solutions", Mr Jarvis said. It could also signal a potential shift in industry collaboration, as it may result in the diversity of powerful AI-backed browser options for consumers – which Google has barely to deal with given its lead in the browser market. It may also force browser owners Apple, Microsoft and Mozilla to accelerate their AI integration efforts to avoid being left behind, because "the industry conversation is no longer just about adding an AI chatbot to a sidebar; it's now about fundamentally rethinking the browser's role as an information tool", Mr Mathias said. "It is highly unlikely that Google will voluntarily sell Chrome or partner with Perplexity ... but the bid is a landmark event that will almost certainly set a precedent and accelerate the development of more AI-enhanced browsers – regardless of the outcome."
What's On
8 hours ago
- What's On
Where to celebrate Indian Independence Day in Dubai
Indian Independence Day is celebrated on August 15, a day that marks the nation's liberation from British colonial rule. With the UAE being home to close to 4.36 million Indians, this is more than enough reason for top restaurants across Dubai to celebrate with delicious lip-smacking dishes and deals to put diners in a patriotic spirit. Here are 12 restaurants to celebrate Indian Independence Day in Dubai Armani/Amal Armani Amal Dine at Armani/Amal and go on a flavourful journey through India with a signature vegetarian thali menu designed to honour the spirit of the nation. The sharing menu includes a medley of aromatic, spice-laden dishes, including grilled cottage cheese tikka stuffed with chilli and mango chutney, tandoor-smoked eggplant, basil coriander tikki and more. To cool down your palate at the end of the night, try traditional favourites which include the gulab jamun and fragrant saffron rasmalai. The limited-time thali can be enjoyed for Dhs315 per person only on August 15. Location: Armani/Amal, Burj Khalifa Times: August 15 Cost: Dhs315 per person Contact: (04) 888 3010 @armaniamal Rang Mahal Rang Mahal Award-winning Indian restaurant Rang Mahal is serving up a curated three-course set menu for Dhs145 per person for just one day on August 15. There's chaat, spicy Kerala fried chicken, minced lamb kebabs, lamb rogan josh, Mangalorean ghee roast prawns, chicken tikka masala, and more to be enjoyed. You can elevate your experience with a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages from Rang Mahal's beverages menu. Location: Rang Mahal, JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road Times: August 15, 6pm to 7.30pm Cost: Dhs145 per person for three-course set menu Contact: (04) 414 3000 @rangmahaldubai Rohini Rohini: pistachio malai motichur Rohini at Mövenpick Hotel JLT has created a special menu only for Indian Independence Day. It features elevated Indian classics such as dahi bhalla (creamy lentil fritters with tangy chutney), Jafrani murgh kebab (tandoor-cooked, saffron-infused stuffed chicken), govind gatta curry (a royal dumpling dish in a rich gravy) and more. The restaurant has also curated a show stopping dessert for the day: a pistachio malai motichur showcasing the vibrant colours of the Indian flag. You will be able to enjoy the menu from August 15 to 17. Location: Rohini, Mövenpick Hotel JLT Times: August 15 to 17 Contact: (04) 438 0064 @rohinibylmi Pincode Pincode Dubai Celebrate the big day at Pincode by Indian celebrity chef Kunal Kapur and you will be treated to a complimentary ghewar dessert. Ghewar is a crisp sweet treat with a honeycomb-like texture, paired with saffron syrup, and dressed up with silver leaf and chopped nuts. It's a festive delicacy from Rajasthan, and fans of sweet treats are sure to enjoy it. Location: Dubai Hills Mall, Dubai Hills Times: August 15 Contact: (04) 566 1424 @ Punjab Grill Punjab Grill Dubai Head to this Michelin-recognised fine dining restaurant and tuck into two dishes for a discounted rate. You can pick from the chicken tikka sampler – a vibrant and juicy chicken dish grilled to perfection, or the paneer roulade on makhani saag – a rich, creamy, vegetarian-friendly dish. Both dishes will sport the colours of the Indian flag and are priced at Dhs78, a nod to India having completed 78 years of independence. Location: Anantara Downtown Dubai, Downtown Dubai Times: August 15 Cost: Dhs78 per dish Contact: (04) 194 1107 @punjabgrilldubai Dhaba Lane Dhaba Lane Have a big appetite? Celebrate in true desi style with a thali. And one of the spots to consider is Dhaba Lane. The homegrown restaurant will be serving the thali for Dhs55 at all Dhaba Lane outlets. Pick from the vegetarian or non-vegetarian platter and enjoy a feast of bread, rice, curries, starters, and a dessert. Dishes on the vegetarian platter span papadi chaat, paneer tikka and tiranga pulao, while meat fans can enjoy banjaara murgh tikka, murgh palak lehsuni and more. And it's perfect to share. Diners will also be treated to complimentary refreshing non-alcoholic shots in the colours of the Indian flag. Location: Dhaba Lane in Al Nahda, JLT, Garhoud and Karama Times: August 14 to 17 Cost: Dhs55 for a thali @ World of Curries World of Curries Celebrate both, Indian and Pakistani Independence Day at World of Curries in Aparthotel Adagio Dubai Deira and receive 30% off the total bill . On the menu, enjoy favorites such as rich butter chicken, smoky seekh kebabs, tangy chana masala, and fragrant biryanis. Location: World Of Curries, Aparthotel Adagio Dubai Deira, 110 Al Khaleej Street, Deira Times: August 14 to 17, 12.30pm to 10.30pm Offer: Indians and Pakistanis receive 30% off the total bill Contact: (054) 792 8707 Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Head to Boulvar at Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek and celebrate India's 79th Independence Day with a lavish feast. The buffet showcases regional favourites, from aromatic biryanis and rich, slow-cooked curries to sizzling tandoori specials, tangy papdi chaat, and freshly made tawa dishes. Your experience will include a festive atmosphere, Bollywood music, vibrant themed décor, and live Dhol and Bhangra performances. You can also head to the dance floor and show off your moves. Continue the fun at Marble where the after-party comes alive with karaoke. The whole celebration can be enjoyed for just Dhs79. Location: Boulvar and Marble at Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek Times: August 15, 7pm to 11pm Cost: Dhs79 per person Contact: (04) 205 7033 / 7034 @radissonbludxb Kinara by Vikas Khanna Celebrity chef Vikas Khanna has curated a special set menu at Kinara at JA Lake View Hotel which diners can enjoy on August 15 . There's a delicate amuse-bouche seasoning pot with sweet and hot flavours, chaat, paneer fritters, paneer qorma, achari lamb, Hyderabadi vegetable briyani, and much more. Project Chaiwala will also be on hand, serving masala blend tea in eco-friendly kulhad cups. It will cost you Dhs249 per person. Location: Kinara, JA Lake View Hotel, Mina Jebel Ali Times: August 15, 6.30pm to 10.30pm Cost: Dhs249 per person Contact: (04) 814 5604 @kinaradxb Varq Varq Restaurant A three-course set menu has been curated for lunch and dinner at Varq at Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, The Palm. Highlights include smoky Rajasthani lamb curry, prawns in coastal coconut gravy, and saffron-laced lotus stem koftas. Enjoy with loved ones for Dhs250 per person only on August 15. Location: Varq, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa The Palm, Palm Jumeirah Times: August 15, lunch 12pm to 3pm and dinner 6pm to 11pm Cost: Dhs250 per person Contact: (04) 275 4444 @varqpalmdubai Palm Kitchen For a buffet experience, head to Palm Kitchen at Taj Exotica Resort & Spa on Palm Jumeirah. On the menu are a range of dishes inspired by India's regional classics and festive favourites. All yours to enjoy for Dhs225 for dinner. Location: Palm Kitchen, Taj Exotica Resort & Spa The Palm, Palm Jumeirah Times: August 15, 6.30pm to 10.30pm Cost: Dhs225 per person Contact: (04) 275 4444 Purani Dilli Purani Dilli Dubai Purani Dilli at Four Points by Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road and Bur Dubai are offering a special three-course menu inspired by the vibrant Indian tricolours. Enjoy the meal for Dhs78, and you can also enjoy the soulful patriotic tunes by a live band. Go dressed in your best Indian attire for a chance to win a special treat. Location: Purani Dilli, Four Points by Sheraton Sheikh Zayed Road and Bur Dubai Times: August 15, 12.30pm to 12am Cost: Dhs78 per person Contact: (056) 414 2213 @puranidillidubai Images: Supplied and Instagram
Arabian Business
8 hours ago
- Arabian Business
$18bn Perplexity AI makes ambitious $34.5bn offer to buy Google's Chrome
In an audacious bid, artificial intelligence startup Perplexity AI, which is currently valued at US$18 billion, has made an unsolicited offer of US$34.5 billion for Google's Chrome browser. The Wall Street Journal exclusively reported the story on Tuesday, with the company saying that several of its investors, including large venture-capital funds, has agreed to back the transaction in full. Google did not immediately respond to requests for comment from several media outlets. AI startup bids to buy Chrome The offer comes at a time when an antitrust decision is set to be announced against Google's parent company, Alphabet. US District Court Judge Amit Mehta could issue a ruling as early as this week that would force Google to sell its web browser as a way of reducing the company's monopoly in the internet search market. The Perplexity chief executive, Aravind Srinivas, in a letter to Sundar Pichai, chief executive of Google's parent company, Alphabet, said that its offer to buy the Chrome browser was 'designed to satisfy an antitrust remedy in highest public interest by placing Chrome with a capable, independent operator.' WSJ reported that Perplexity offered to Pichai that 'it would maintain and support Chromium, the open-source project that supports Chrome and other browsers. It also said that it would continue placing Google as the default search engine within Chrome, though users could change settings'. Perplexity, which was an acquisition target of Meta earlier this year, is known for its AI-powered search engine that gives users simple answers to questions and links to the original source material on the web. Last month, it launched its own AI-powered browser called Comet. Chrome, which was launched by Google in 2008, has nearly 3.5 billion users worldwide and accounts for more than 60 per cent of the global browser market. The Justice Department brought the case against Google in 2020. It has pushed for the federal court to force Google to sell Chrome browser in a series of remedy proposals after prevailing in its antitrust case against the search giant. The department has argued that forcing Google to divest Chrome and share search results and ads with rivals would create more competition. In testimony earlier this year, Pichai told the judge that forcing the company to sell it or share data with rivals would harm Google's business, deter it from investing in new technology and potentially create security risks.
