Anthropic offers AI chatbot Claude to U.S. government for $1
This comes days after OpenAI's ChatGPT, Google's Gemini and Anthropic's Claude were added to the government's list of approved AI vendors.
"America's AI leadership requires that our government institutions have access to the most capable, secure AI tools available," CEO Dario Amodei said.
Rival OpenAI had announced a similar offer last week, wherein ChatGPT Enterprise was made available to participating U.S. federal agencies for $1 per agency for the next year.
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News18
an hour ago
- News18
Who Is Aravind Srinivas? Meet Perplexity CEO Behind $34.5 Billion Bid For Google Chrome
He co-founded Perplexity AI in 2022 alongside Denis Yarats, Johnny Ho, and Andy Konwinski. An Indian-origin tech entrepreneur is making waves across the tech world after making an audacious offer to acquire Google Chrome. Aravind Srinivas, CEO of the AI startup Perplexity, recently sent a letter to Google CEO Sundar Pichai on August 12, proposing an all-cash acquisition of the popular web browser, as reported by Reuters. In a bold and unexpected move, Srinivas' company has offered a staggering $34.5 billion to purchase Google Chrome, despite Perplexity AI reportedly being valued at around $18 billion. The unsolicited bid, which significantly overshoots the company's own valuation, has sparked surprise and curiosity across the global tech landscape. Srinivas, 31, was born and raised in Chennai, India. A graduate of IIT Madras, he later pursued higher education at the University of California, Berkeley. He co-founded Perplexity AI in 2022 alongside Denis Yarats, Johnny Ho, and Andy Konwinski. The company's core product is an AI-powered search engine designed to deliver direct, conversational answers using real-time information, positioning itself as a potential challenger to traditional search engines like Google. Before launching Perplexity, Srinivas accumulated valuable experience in the AI and tech ecosystem, having previously worked at Google, and collaborated with influential AI researcher Yoshua Bengio. These formative roles helped shape his expertise in search and information retrieval technologies, which are now at the heart of his company's mission. The timing of the bid is noteworthy. Google is currently facing legal challenges following a major antitrust ruling in the United States. A US District Judge recently ruled that Google had maintained its search monopoly through illegal practices, including paying billions to remain the default search option on devices and browsers. Google has announced plans to appeal, but the litigation process could take years. So far, Google has not issued a public response to Srinivas' acquisition offer. While Perplexity has only raised around $1 billion to date, it claims that multiple investment firms have offered to fully fund the proposed deal. However, the company has not disclosed the names of these potential financiers. Whether Google will entertain the proposal remains unclear, but the bid has already placed Aravind Srinivas and Perplexity AI firmly in the global spotlight. view comments First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Economic Times
an hour ago
- Economic Times
Horoscope today 14 August 2025: Moon in Virgo and Mercury-Mars alignment bring big opportunities for these zodiac signs
Synopsis Horoscope Today 14 August brings fresh cosmic insights for all zodiac signs—Gemini, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Libra, Pisces, Aries, Taurus, Virgo, Leo, Cancer, Capricorn, and Aquarius. Whether you're pursuing career milestones, seeking emotional clarity, or making important decisions, today's astrology predictions offer practical guidance. Today, as the Moon moves through Virgo, expect a wave of clarity and fresh opportunities. With Mercury in Leo aligning with Mars in Libra, communication and action are supercharged—making it a great day for these zodiac signs to make bold moves. Horoscope Today 14 August 2025 offers a glimpse into what the universe has in store for your zodiac sign. As the Moon transitions through Virgo, the focus today is on analysis, structure, and clearing loose ends. Whether you're a fire sign like Aries, Leo, or Sagittarius seeking action, or a water sign like Cancer or Pisces searching for emotional balance, today's predictions reflect planetary alignments and their impact on your mood, decisions, and overall flow. Your energy is high today, Aries, but Mercury's square with Neptune may create minor communication confusion. Focus on clarity in work discussions and avoid rushing important tasks. Financially, hold off on major investments until things feel more certain. On the emotional front, small disagreements could arise with loved ones—take a step back before reacting. Trust your instincts but double-check information. Physical activity will help balance restless energy. Social interactions may bring unexpected insights, so remain open. Evening reflection will provide perspective on the day. Prioritize rest to recharge for tomorrow. Taurus, Venus's alignment with Saturn empowers your career and long-term goals. Presenting your ideas or negotiating rewards now could lead to tangible results. Emotionally, you might feel slightly reserved—don't let this distance affect relationships. Health routines, including hydration and sleep, are especially important today. Financial planning benefits from careful consideration. Creative projects may gain traction if you dedicate focus. Family matters may need patience and diplomacy. Stay grounded and avoid overcommitting. A small act of self-care can bring clarity and peace. Evening reflection could spark a personal breakthrough. The Moon in your 4th house brings family matters to the forefront, Gemini. Emotional sensitivity may rise, requiring patience and grounding. Career tasks will demand focus—avoid multitasking to prevent mistakes. Unexpected financial opportunities might appear; evaluate them carefully. Social interactions could reveal hidden information. Your natural curiosity benefits research or learning today. Creative thinking shines, especially in problem-solving. Avoid overextending emotionally; set boundaries where needed. Evening meditation or journaling can help process your thoughts. Family communication will be smoother if approached with your intuition is heightened, but so is the tendency to overthink. Avoid reading too much into small cues, especially in personal relationships. A past work connection might return with opportunities; review proposals carefully. Honest, heart-to-heart conversations in love bring clarity. Focus on self-care, sleep, and limiting late-night screen time. Financial decisions should be conservative today. Emotional well-being improves with light exercise or outdoor walks. Be mindful of absorbing others' stress. Socially, trust close friends for guidance. Evening reflection supports better emotional balance. Leo, today calls for structure to counteract distraction. Make a clear task list and prioritize urgent matters. Small unexpected expenses may appear; avoid impulse purchases. Reconnect with loved ones with simple gestures or messages. Work projects benefit from organized planning. Social engagements could bring insights, so remain attentive. Creative expression shines, helping you feel energized and motivated. Emotional patience is necessary in personal interactions. Health routines will stabilize mood and energy levels. Evening reflection provides perspective on accomplishments and challenges. Avoid overcommitting; balance is key today. The Moon energizes your sign, Virgo, making you feel ready to lead or solve ongoing issues. Take initiative at work and don't shy away from responsibility. Be cautious not to overwork; short breaks and walks help prevent burnout. Health signals are subtle but important—stay hydrated and mindful of posture. Financial planning and attention to detail bring success. Creative and analytical skills combine effectively today. Family interactions benefit from your practical advice. Emotional grounding is necessary to manage stress. Evening meditation or journaling aids mental clarity. Take time to appreciate your accomplishments. Libra, relationships take center stage as Venus brings clarity. Honest conversations in partnerships help resolve lingering tension. Work stress may build but is manageable with routines. Focus on mental balance through deep breathing, journaling, or short meditation breaks. Financial decisions benefit from patience and careful review. Creative endeavors are favored if you approach them methodically. Emotional sensitivity may arise; avoid overanalyzing situations. Networking or collaboration brings unexpected opportunities. Evening reflection on your priorities supports a sense of peace. Balance between work, love, and personal care is essential. Scorpio, your emotional depth allows you to uncover important truths today. Whether in personal relationships or self-reflection, use this insight wisely. Financially, review details carefully before making commitments. Singles may experience an intriguing connection through friends or social networks. Work projects benefit from focus and strategic planning. Intuitive hunches guide decision-making. Avoid getting caught in emotional turbulence; maintain boundaries. Evening reflection or journaling can deepen understanding. Physical activity or mindfulness supports clarity. Trust your instincts but balance with rational thinking. Sagittarius, you may feel restless and seek change. Spontaneous energy is positive, but stay grounded in decision-making. A learning or travel opportunity may present itself—evaluate carefully before committing. Financial caution is advised; don't let excitement cloud judgment. Physical activity, especially outdoors, refreshes energy levels. Social connections bring new ideas or perspectives. Emotional awareness helps navigate personal relationships. Creative or intellectual projects gain traction with focused effort. Evening reflection enhances clarity on priorities. Avoid overcommitting to avoid unnecessary today emphasizes long-term planning and steady progress. Saturn supports practical decision-making and career goals. If you've been consistent, positive feedback is likely. Relationships benefit from your advice and practical solutions. Financial matters require careful assessment but show potential for growth. Physical and mental routines stabilize your energy. Creative problem-solving brings professional recognition. Social interactions may reveal helpful opportunities. Evening reflection or journaling supports mindfulness and goal clarity. Celebrate small wins; they build long-term confidence. Aquarius, mental energy is high but scattered. Focus on prioritizing key tasks and avoid distractions. A colleague or friend may offer a new perspective that reshapes your approach. Romantic energy is neutral today, making it ideal for self-care and personal growth. Financial planning benefits from analytical thinking. Creative projects and learning opportunities bring satisfaction. Avoid overextending socially; maintain boundaries. Physical activity or mindfulness exercises stabilize energy. Evening reflection helps process insights and ideas. Trust your intuition but balance with practical action. Pisces, Neptune's influence could blur reality today. Avoid assumptions and remain grounded in personal and professional decisions. Emotional receptivity is high, but protect your energy from absorbing stress from others. Creative and artistic projects flourish with focus and imagination. Financial decisions require careful evaluation. Relationship clarity comes through honest conversation. Physical exercise or meditation supports emotional balance. Social interactions may provide unexpected insights. Evening reflection helps consolidate thoughts and intuition. Stay mindful of boundaries to maintain emotional well-being. Each zodiac sign has a unique journey, and Horoscope Today 14 August 2025 reminds us that even minor planetary shifts influence our thoughts, feelings, and actions. From Gemini's emotional sensitivity to Virgo's leadership boost and Pisces' intuitive flow, it's a day of reflection and opportunity. Align with the stars, but trust your instincts.
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Business Standard
an hour ago
- Business Standard
GenAI paradox: Companies pouring billions into AI; it has yet to pay off
Nearly four decades ago, when the personal computer boom was in full swing, a phenomenon known as the 'productivity paradox' emerged. It was a reference to how, despite companies' huge investments in new technology, there was scant evidence of a corresponding gain in workers' efficiency. Today, the same paradox is appearing, but with generative artificial intelligence. According to recent research from McKinsey & Company, nearly eight in 10 companies have reported using generative AI, but just as many have reported 'no significant bottom-line impact'. AI technology has been racing ahead with chatbots like ChatGPT, fueled by a high-stakes arms race among tech giants and superrich start-ups and prompting an expectation that everything from back-office accounting to customer service will be revolutionised. But the payoff for businesses outside the tech sector is lagging behind, plagued by issues including an irritating tendency by chatbots to make stuff up. That means that businesses will have to continue to invest billions to avoid falling behind — but it could be years before the technology delivers an economywide payoff, as companies gradually figure out what works best. Call it the 'the generative AI paradox,' as McKinsey did in its research report. Investments in generative AI by businesses are expected to increase 94 per cent this year to $61.9 billion, according to IDC, a technology research firm. But the percentage of companies abandoning most of their AI pilot projects soared to 42 per cent by the end of 2024, up from 17 per cent the previous year, according to a survey of more than 1,000 technology and business managers by S&P Global, a data and analytics firm. Projects failed not only because of technical hurdles, but often because of 'human factors' like employee and customer resistance or lack of skills, said Alexander Johnston, a senior analyst at S&P Global. Gartner, a research and advisory firm that charts technological 'hype cycles,' predicts that AI is sliding toward a stage it calls 'the trough of disillusionment.' The low point is expected next year, before the technology eventually becomes a proven productivity tool, said John-David Lovelock, the chief forecaster at Gartner. That was the pattern with past technologies like personal computers and the internet — early exuberance, the hard slog of mastering a technology, followed by a transformation of industries and work. The winners so far have been the suppliers of AI technology and advice. They include Microsoft, Amazon, and Google, which offer AI software, while Nvidia is the runaway leader in AI chips. Executives at those companies have bragged how AI is reshaping their own work forces, eliminating the need for some entry-level coding work and making other workers more efficient. AI will eventually replace entire swaths of human employees, many predict, a perspective that is being widely embraced and echoed in the corporate mainstream. At the Aspen Ideas Festival in June, Jim Farley, the chief executive of Ford Motor, said, 'Artificial intelligence is going to replace literally half of all white-collar workers in the US' Whether that type of revolutionary change occurs, and how soon, depends on the real-world testing ground of many businesses. 'The raw technological horsepower is terrific, but it's not going to determine how quickly AI transforms the economy,' said Andrew McAfee, a principal research scientist and co-director of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's Initiative on the Digital Economy. Still, some businesses are finding ways to incorporate AI — although in most cases the technology is still a long way from replacing workers. One company where AI's promise and flaws are playing out is USAA, which provides insurance and banking services to members of the military and their families. After several pilot projects, some of which it closed down, the company introduced an AI assistant to help its 16,000 customer service workers provide correct answers to specific questions. USAA is tracking its AI investments, but does not yet have a calculation of the financial payoff, if any, for the call center software. But the response from its workers, the company said, has been overwhelmingly positive. While it has software apps for answering customer questions online, its call centers field an average of 200,000 calls a day. 'Those are moments that matter,' said Ramnik Bajaj, the company's chief data analytics and AI officer. 'They want a human voice at the other end of the phone.' That's similar to an AI app developed more than a year ago for fieldworkers at Johnson Controls, a large supplier of building equipment, software and services. The company fed its operating and service manuals for its machines into an AI program that has been trained to generate a problem summary, suggest repairs and deliver it all to the technician's tablet computer. In testing, the app has trimmed 10 to 15 minutes off a repair call of an hour or more — a useful efficiency gain, but hardly a workplace transformation on its own. Fewer than 2,000 of the company's 25,000 field service workers have access to the AI helper, although the company is planning an expansion. 'It's still pretty early days, but the idea is that over time everyone will use it,' said Vijay Sankaran, the chief digital and information officer at Johnson Controls. The long-term vision is that companies will use AI to improve multiple systems, including sales, procurement, manufacturing, customer service and finance, he said. 'That's the game changer,' said Sankaran, who predicts that shift will take at least five years. Two years ago, JPMorgan Chase, the nation's largest bank, blocked access to ChatGPT from its computers because of potential security risks. Only a few hundred data scientists and engineers were allowed to experiment with AI Today, about 200,000 of the bank's employees have access to a general-purpose AI assistant — essentially a business chatbot — from their work computers for tasks like retrieving data, answering business questions and writing reports. The assistant, tailored for JPMorgan's use, taps into ChatGPT and other AI tools, while ensuring data security for confidential bank and customer information. Roughly half of the workers use it regularly and report spending up to four hours less a week on basic office tasks, the company said. The bank's wealth advisers are also employing a more specialized AI assistant, which uses bank, market and customer data to provide wealthy clients with investment research and advice. The bank says it retrieves information and helps advisers make investment recommendations nearly twice as fast as they could before, increasing sales. Lori Beer, the global chief information officer at JPMorgan, oversees a worldwide technology staff of 60,000. Has she shut down AI projects? Probably hundreds in total, she said. But many of the shelved prototypes, she said, developed concepts and code that were folded into other, continuing projects. 'We're absolutely shutting things down,' Ms. Beer said. 'We're not afraid to shut things down. We don't think it's a bad thing. I think it's a smart thing.' McAfee, the M.I.T. research scientist, agreed. 'It's not surprising that early AI efforts are falling short,' said McAfee, who is a founder of Workhelix, an AI-consulting firm. 'Innovation is a process of failing fairly regularly.'
