3 Stocks Capitalizing on the Artificial Intelligence Boom – InvestorPlace

The artificial intelligence boom has generated many winners like these three stocks

Artificial intelligence (AI) can increase global productivity and help businesses generate more revenue. Those two outcomes and others have captivated investors who seek to beat the market.

Its hard to find an industry that performed as well as AI last year. It may also be challenging to find a sector that can keep up with artificial intelligence stocks in 2024. These stocks wont go parabolic and will have good years and bad years.

However, many of the catalysts that fueled 2023s rally are still in play this year. Its possible for these three AI stocks to soar higher as they capitalize on the artificial intelligence boom.

Source: sdx15 / Shutterstock.com

Nvidia(NASDAQ:NVDA) put investors on notice last year as artificial intelligence caused revenue to surge.Quadruple-digit year-over-year net income growthmade the valuation easier to justify.

Even now, it can be argued that Nvidia is still an undervalued stock. The companys continued growth, business opportunities, 28 forward P/E ratio, and 0.56 PEG ratio form the foundation for this argument.

This company has been one of the best performers in the stock market. Shares are up by 241% over the past year and have gained 1,328% over the past five years. The company has even notched a 19% year-to-date gain. Most indexes have eked out low-single-digit gains this year, if that.

The firm is in a class of its own and has the potential to become the worlds most valuable company. It has grown the most out of the top artificial intelligence players and leads by a wide margin.

Source: The Art of Pics / Shutterstock.com

If Nvidia wants to become the worlds most valuable publicly traded company, it will have to contend with heavyweights:Microsoft(NASDAQ:MSFT) andApple(NASDAQ:AAPL). The two stocks have been jockeying for the top spot with Microsoft having a slight edge at the time of writing.

A 70% gain over the past year and a 268% gain over the past five years make Microsoft stock look appealing for long-term investors. The companys artificial intelligence initiatives can fuel more gains and reward investors who accumulate shares.

Microsofts Azure has anAI platformthat helps developers build apps at enterprise scale. The company has built-in tools to help developers create more effective AI and construct AI workflows.

The company also benefits from the rise of AI through its investment in OpenAI and Microsoft Copilot. Copilot is a new feature that has been built into Microsoft Office Products to increase productivity. The firm is a leading AI stock that continues to deliver double-digit year-over-year revenue and earnings growth.

Source: Benny Marty / Shutterstock.com

Alphabet(NASDAQ:GOOG, NASDAQ:GOOGL) is well-known for its search engine. Google is the worlds most popular website with its own YouTube right behind it. These platforms rely on artificial intelligence to provide consumers with relevant search results. YouTube also recommends videos similar to the one the viewer is currently watching to increase the amount of time people spend on the website.

Attention is money for any company, and Alphabet has demonstrated that it can keep attention for several hours in a given day. While ad revenue is still growing, the company is diversifying into other areas, such as cloud computing, to achieve higher growth rates.

Google Cloud offers severalAI and machine learning productsto help people use generative AI, gather data, and perform other tasks. Alphabet is also at the forefront ofquantum computingthrough AI which can become the next megatrend. Quantum computing is still in its early innings, but artificial intelligence is heating up right now.

Alphabet stock gives you exposure to those sectors, the companys vast advertising business, and other business segments.

On this date of publication, Marc Guberti held long positions in NVDA and MSFT. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer, subject to theInvestorPlace.comPublishing Guidelines.

Marc Guberti is a finance freelance writer at InvestorPlace.com who hosts the Breakthrough Success Podcast. He has contributed to several publications, including the U.S. News & World Report, Benzinga, and Joy Wallet.

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3 Stocks Capitalizing on the Artificial Intelligence Boom - InvestorPlace

More support for artificial intelligence start-ups to boost innovation – European Union

The Commission is stepping up its support to European start-ups and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) so they can develop trustworthy artificial intelligence (AI) that respects EU values and rules.

The new AI package includes a broad range of measures to support these start-ups and innovation, along with a proposal to provide privileged access to supercomputers to AI start-ups and the broader innovation community. Other measures include:

The Commission will also establish two European Digital Infrastructure Consortiums, together with several Member States. These groups will develop common European infrastructure in language technologies and state-of-the-art AI-tools to help cities optimise processes, from traffic to waste management.

For years, the Commission has been facilitating and enhancing cooperation on artificial intelligence across the EU to boost its competitiveness and ensure trust based on EU values. The EU AI Act agreed in December 2023 is the world's first comprehensive law on artificial intelligence and will support the development, deployment and take-up of trustworthy AI in the EU.

For more information

Excellence and trust in artificial intelligence

AI Pact

The European High-Performance Computing Joint Undertaking

Common European Data Spaces

Press release: Commission launches AI innovation package to support Artificial Intelligence start-ups and SMEs

European Digital Infrastructure Consortium (EDIC)

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More support for artificial intelligence start-ups to boost innovation - European Union

The Commission adopts its own approach on development and use of Artificial Intelligence – European Union

The Communication on the Artificial Intelligence in the European Commission (AI@EC) outlines its strategic vision to foster the internal development and use of lawful, safe and trustworthy AI.

When using or deploying AI, the Commission will:

Develop internal operational guidelines that give staff users, developers or procurers of AI systems clear and pragmatic guidance on how to put such systems in operation.

Assess and classify AI systems that the Commission is using or planning to use based on a risk-based approach and using the Commissions operational guidelines.

Refrain from using AI systems that are considered incompatible with European values or that represent a threat to the security, safety, health and fundamental rights of people.

Put in place organisational structures to fulfil the obligations of the Commission in relation to AI.

In doing so, the Commission will consider the planned EU political and legislative initiatives as well as all applicable existing legislation, including on non-discrimination, accessibility, information security and data protection. It will also consider the best practices and examples from industry at both, the national and international levels. When deciding on new IT investments, the Commission will consider the AI aspect to ensure compliance with the Commissions operational guidelines.

"We welcome the opportunity that AI brings to Commission staff to become more efficient in their daily work. We strive to modernise our systems and support public administrations in the EU in their use of trustworthy AI technologies . With the AI Act, the Commission is setting rules for harmonising the use of AI in the EU. These rules will help us too. With this Communication, we want to ensure that the Commission prepares for the implementation of the AI Act and puts in place the mechanisms that are needed for the safe and ethical use of AI in our own work."

Veronica Gaffey, Director-General for Digital Services

Keeping its focus on people, the Commission will provide its staff with access to relevant information on AI and advice and help, through training and guidelines.

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The Commission adopts its own approach on development and use of Artificial Intelligence - European Union

Why Mark Zuckerberg Is the Power Player in Artificial Intelligence – The Motley Fool

Meta Platforms (META 0.24%) will have more GPU power than almost any company in the world by the end of 2024, and the company plans to make most of its AI models open source. This is a powerful strategy that could destroy value for even the biggest competitors in the industry, as Travis Hoium covers in this video.

*Stock prices used were end-of-day prices of Jan. 23, 2024. The video was published on Jan. 23, 2024.

Randi Zuckerberg, a former director of market development and spokeswoman for Facebook and sister to Meta Platforms CEO Mark Zuckerberg, is a member of The Motley Fool's board of directors. John Mackey, former CEO of Whole Foods Market, an Amazon subsidiary, is a member of The Motley Fool's board of directors. Suzanne Frey, an executive at Alphabet, is a member of The Motley Fool's board of directors. Travis Hoium has positions in Alphabet and Snap. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Alphabet, Amazon, Meta Platforms, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Oracle. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Travis Hoium is an affiliate of The Motley Fool and may be compensated for promoting its services. If you choose to subscribe through their link they will earn some extra money that supports their channel. Their opinions remain their own and are unaffected by The Motley Fool.

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Why Mark Zuckerberg Is the Power Player in Artificial Intelligence - The Motley Fool

Making Money with AI: Unleashing the Potential of Artificial Intelligence – Medium

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is not just revolutionizing technology; its also opening up new avenues for making money. This article delves into the ways individuals can leverage AI to create income streams, offering insights and expert advice for those looking to capitalize on this rapidly evolving field.

Explore the diverse ways in which AI can be harnessed for generating income. From automation to data analysis, understand the broad spectrum of opportunities that AI presents for individuals seeking financial success.

Delve into specific niches within the AI landscape that offer lucrative income potential. Whether its AI-driven content creation, virtual assistance, or machine learning applications, discover where your skills and interests align.

Learn about the essential skills required to make money with AI. From programming languages to understanding algorithms, discover how individuals can prepare themselves for the evolving demands of the AI-driven job market.

Explore the world of freelancing in AI. Discover platforms and opportunities where individuals can offer their AI expertise to businesses and individuals in need of AI-driven solutions.

Uncover the potential of developing AI products. From AI-powered applications to specialized software, learn how to create and market products that leverage the capabilities of artificial intelligence.

Explore the role of AI in content creation. From automated writing tools to AI-generated visuals, discover how individuals can monetize their AI-enhanced content creation skills in various industries.

Understand the demand for AI solutions in the business world. Explore how individuals can create tailored AI solutions to address specific business needs, offering consulting or development services.

Delve into the world of AI competitions. Platforms like Kaggle offer opportunities for individuals to showcase their AI prowess and win cash prizes, providing a unique avenue for making money with AI skills.

Uncover the potential of creating educational content around AI. Whether through online courses, tutorials, or webinars, individuals can monetize their AI knowledge by sharing it with aspiring learners.

Q: Do I need a technical background to make money with AI? While a technical background is beneficial, there are opportunities for individuals with varying levels of expertise. Non-technical roles, such as AI consulting or content creation, also exist.

Q: Can I make money with AI without a formal education in the field? Yes, practical experience and skills often carry significant weight in the AI industry. Self-learning, certifications, and real-world projects can contribute to your success.

Q: Are there ethical considerations in AI income opportunities? Yes, ethical considerations are crucial in AI. Individuals should be mindful of the responsible use of AI and stay updated on ethical guidelines in the industry.

Q: How can I stay updated on the latest developments in AI? Engage with online communities, attend webinars, and follow reputable sources in the AI field. Continuous learning is key to staying informed and competitive.

Q: What are the potential risks of monetizing AI knowledge? Potential risks include ethical concerns, ensuring the security of AI solutions, and staying compliant with relevant regulations. Understanding and mitigating these risks is essential for success.

Q: Can I make money with AI as a side hustle? Yes, many AI opportunities can be pursued as a side hustle. Freelancing, content creation, and participating in competitions are examples of flexible AI income avenues.

Embark on the exciting journey of making money with AI, leveraging its transformative capabilities to create income streams. With strategic insights and a commitment to continuous learning, individuals can position themselves for success in the dynamic and lucrative world of AI-driven income.

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Making Money with AI: Unleashing the Potential of Artificial Intelligence - Medium

3 Artificial Intelligence Stocks to Buy as the Technology Advances in 2024 – InvestorPlace

According to the International Monetary Fund, we are on the brink of a technology revolution spearheaded by artificial intelligence. The technology will boost productivity, accelerate global growth and raise incomes globally. Multiple AI stocks will benefit from this transformation.

Today, businesses are analyzing how they can leverage AI to improve productivity and how it affects the competitive landscape. Already, organizations are using AI in various use cases, such as application development, customer service, pharmaceutical discovery and creative design.

However, to achieve the promise of AI, companies must make significant investments. That starts with the data and models they use. First, organizations are investing in systems to collect, store, manage and access massive data sets. Then, using the right models, they can derive patterns from their data to drive decision-making, customer service and innovation.

Across the artificial intelligence stack, several companies are meeting various needs. From chip companies producing chips for training large language models to companies developing large language models. These AI stocks are at the forefront of this race and will be winners in 2024.

Source: Sundry Photography / Shutterstock.com

As the largest semiconductor foundry, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (NYSE:TSM) is one of the leading AI stocks. The company is seeing soaring demand as the scramble for AI chips for data centers and edge computing grows. Over the years, many integrated device manufacturers transitioned to fabless designers, cementing Taiwan Semiconductors importance in chip production.

Taiwan Semiconductor has built an unassailable competitive advantage in its process technology. By investing heavily in research and development, it has maintained leadership in node advancement. As a result, it attracts and retains high-quality, fabless customers. For instance, Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) in mobile chips and Nvidia (NASDAQ:NVDA) in graphic processing units.

Today, the company is producing leading-edge node chips for its AI customers. Competitors have had challenges producing these chips, enabling Taiwan Semi to dominate the market and charge higher prices. Already the firm is producing 3-nanometer chips for Nvidia, Apple and Intel (NASDAQ:INTC) as competitors struggle to catch up.

On January 19, the company released results and issued upbeat guidance. The company is benefitting from cloud service providers upgrading their data centers with chips supporting AI capabilities. Management was optimistic on high-performance computing demand related to AI, forecasting more than 20% revenue growth in 2024.

While AI adoption has been mainly in the data center, it will become ubiquitous, supporting Taiwan Semis growth. Consumer devices such as smartphones and industrial equipment will need AI capabilities, ushering in the next growth cycle.

Source: rafapress / Shutterstock.com

Although it is primarily a social media company, Meta Platforms (NASDAQ:META) has been a player in the AI for a while. Its increased efforts in the field came out of necessity after Apples IDFA changes curtailed user tracking. Faced with diminished advertising accuracy, Meta Platforms pivoted to AI.

Two years later, the company has become one of the top AI stocks. Notably, CEO Mark Zuckerberg has touted AI as the foundation of our discovery engine and our ads business. The company has amassed hundreds of top A.I. researchers and invested in significant computer power to power these systems. These efforts are paying off with impressive results.

In February 2023, it released LLaMA (Large Language Model Meta AI) a foundational large language model. Metas aim was to advance AI research. Then, in July 2023 it released LLaMA 2 for research and commercial use. Impressively, the model outperforms other open-source language models in coding, reasoning, proficiency, and knowledge tests.

Meta has adopted a unique approach, giving away its models for free. By open-sourcing its models, Meta hopes third-party developers will help improve the platform. Like Linux became the open-source operating system, Meta hopes Llama will become integral to building the next generation of AI applications.

Zuckerberg recently committed to developing artificial general intelligence. He pledged to spend heavily on compute infrastructure to support this effort. If Meta Platforms manages to standardize AI development through its open-source models, it will be a key player in the ecosystem. Considering Zuckerbergs focus on winning in AI, it remains one of the top artificial intelligence stocks, and certainly one of the artificial intelligence stocks you should grab.

Source: IgorGolovniov / Shutterstock.com

Googles parent company, Alphabet (NASDAQ:GOOG, NASDAQ:GOOGL), has been derided for losing the AI war to Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT). These assessments seem overly pessimistic. The company is an innovator and will prove the doubters wrong.

The search giant has made significant investments in artificial intelligence. The most significant one was the 2014 acquisition of DeepMind. Secondly, Google has been using artificial intelligence in search for a while, even before OpenAI launched ChatGPT.

Moreover, it is introducing products that will integrate generative AI into search. Today, users can rely on Bard for chat-like responses. It is also testing Search Generative Experience and has expanded its features since its May 2023 launch.

One competitive advantage that positions Google to succeed is its high-quality training data. Today, Google has six products with over 2 billion users and 15 products, each with more than 500 million users. This data has been crucial in creating context-aware AI functions. For instance, features such as Smart Compose in Gmail have significantly improved the user experience.

Alphabets leadership among artificial intelligence stocks extends beyond software to hardware, making it one of the best AI stocks. It developed a specialized chip, a Tensor Processing Unit (TPU), specifically for AI applications. Its TPUs and open-source framework, Tensor, power services such as Gmail, Maps and YouTube.

As Google integrates AI into its products, it will see more growth. For example, serving context-rich ads into generative search results will improve ad conversion and monetization. In December 2023, Google released Gemini, its latest and most powerful LLM, proving Alphabet is still in the AI race. Dont count out this technology giant yet; it has the resources to win!

On the date of publication, Charles Munyi did not hold (either directly or indirectly) any positions in the securities mentioned in this article. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer, subject to the InvestorPlace.comPublishing Guidelines.

Charles Munyi has extensive writing experience in various industries, including personal finance, insurance, technology, wealth management and stock investing. He has written for a wide variety of financial websites including Benzinga, The Balance and Investopedia.

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3 Artificial Intelligence Stocks to Buy as the Technology Advances in 2024 - InvestorPlace

The Future of AI: What to Expect in the Next 5 Years – TechTarget

For the first half of the 20th century, the concept of artificial intelligence held meaning almost exclusively for science fiction fans. In literature and cinema, androids, sentient machines and other forms of AI sat at the center of many of science fiction's high-water marks -- from Metropolis to I, Robot. In the second half of the last century, scientists and technologists began earnestly attempting to realize AI.

At the 1956 Dartmouth Summer Research Project on Artificial Intelligence, co-host John McCarthy introduced the phrase artificial intelligence and helped incubate an organized community of AI researchers.

Often AI hype outpaced the actual capacities of anything those researchers could create. But in the last moments of the 20th century, significant AI advances started to rattle society at large. When IBM's Deep Blue defeated chess master Gary Kasparov, the game's reigning champion, the event seemed to signal not only a historic and singular defeat in chess history -- the first time that a computer had beaten a top player -- but also that a threshold had been crossed. Thinking machines had left the realm of sci-fi and entered the real world.

The era of big data and the exponential growth of computational power in accord with Moore's Law has subsequently enabled AI to sift through gargantuan amounts of data and learn how to accomplish tasks that had previously been accomplished only by humans.

The effects of this machine renaissance have permeated society: Voice recognition devices such as Alexa, recommendation engines like those used by Netflix to suggest which movie you should watch next based on your viewing history, and the modest steps taken by driverless cars and other autonomous vehicles are emblematic. But the next five years of AI development will likely lead to major societal changes that go well beyond what we've seen to date.

Speed of life. The most obvious change that many people will feel across society is an increase in the tempo of engagements with large institutions. Any organization that engages regularly with large numbers of users -- businesses, government units, nonprofits -- will be compelled to implement AI in the decision-making processes and in their public- and consumer-facing activities. AI will allow these organizations to make most of the decisions much more quickly. As a result, we will all feel life speeding up.

End of privacy. Society will also see its ethical commitments tested by powerful AI systems, especially privacy. AI systems will likely become much more knowledgeable about each of us than we are about ourselves. Our commitment to protecting privacy has already been severely tested by emerging technologies over the last 50 years. As the cost of peering deeply into our personal data drops and more powerful algorithms capable of assessing massive amounts of data become more widespread, we will probably find that it was a technological barrier more than an ethical commitment that led society to enshrine privacy.

Thicket of AI law. We can also expect the regulatory environment to become much trickier for organizations using AI. Presently all across the planet, governments at every level, local to national to transnational, are seeking to regulate the deployment of AI. In the U.S. alone, we can expect an AI law thicket as city, state and federal government units draft, implement and begin to enforce new AI laws. And the European Union will almost certainly implement its long-awaited AI regulation within the next six to 12 business quarters. The legal complexity of doing business will grow considerably in the next five years as a result.

Human-AI teaming. Much of society will expect businesses and government to use AI as an augmentation of human intelligence and expertise, or as a partner, to one or more humans working toward a goal, as opposed to using it to displace human workers. One of the effects of artificial intelligence having been born as an idea in century-old science fiction tales is that the tropes of the genre, chief among them dramatic depictions of artificial intelligence as an existential threat to humans, are buried deep in our collective psyche. Human-AI teaming, or keeping humans in any process that is being substantially influenced by artificial intelligence, will be key to managing the resultant fear of AI that permeates society.

The following industries will be affected most by AI:

The notion that AI poses an existential risk to humans has existed almost as long as the concept of AI itself. But in the last two years, as generative AI has become a hot topic of public discussion and debate, fear of AI has taken on newer undertones.

Arguably the most realistic form of this AI anxiety is a fear of human societies losing control to AI-enabled systems. We can already see this happening voluntarily in use cases such as algorithmic trading in the finance industry. The whole point of such implementations is to exploit the capacities of synthetic minds to operate at speeds that outpace the quickest human brains by many orders of magnitude.

However, the existential threats that have been posited by Elon Musk, Geoffrey Hinton and other AI pioneers seem at best like science fiction, and much less hopeful than much of the AI fiction created 100 years ago.

The more likely long-term risk of AI anxiety in the present is missed opportunities. To the extent that organizations in this moment might take these claims seriously and underinvest based on those fears, human societies will miss out on significant efficiency gains, potential innovations that flow from human-AI teaming, and possibly even new forms of technological innovation, scientific knowledge production and other modes of societal innovation that powerful AI systems can indirectly catalyze.

Michael Bennett is director of educational curriculum and business lead for responsible AI in The Institute for Experiential Artificial Intelligence at Northeastern University in Boston. Previously, he served as Discovery Partners Institute's director of student experiential immersion learning programs at the University of Illinois. He holds a J.D. from Harvard Law School.

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The Future of AI: What to Expect in the Next 5 Years - TechTarget

‘Love Machina’ Review: Artificial Intelligence Doc Fails to Ask the Interesting Questions – IndieWire

Bina48, the central figure of the documentary Love Machina, is among the most terrifying film characters of the year. A disembodied head resembling a middle-aged Black woman and powered by artificial intelligence, Bina48 combines a realistic face, dead emotionless eyes, jerky and mechanical head movements, and speech that resembles a voicemail chatbot more than a living being to create an uncanny valley nightmare. But to basically everyone on screen, Bina48 is a dream, a sign of a world where to quote the motto of her makers at the Terasem Movement Life is purposeful. Death is optional. God is technological. Love is essential.

Whether Love Machina agrees with its subjects views about Bina48, and the larger ongoing debates about the ethics of artificial intelligence, is a bit of a mystery even by the time its credits roll. In taking us into the story of the AI, director Peter Sillen opts for a fairly neutral approach that acknowledges some counterarguments and complications, enough that the film cant be called full-throttle AI propaganda. But the failure to take a strong stance either way makes for a boringly ambivalent film, one that fails to either enchant with promises of the future or terrify with warnings of whats to come.

As the title suggests, Love Machina fashions itself as a story of a marriage, though it doesnt dig particularly deeply into the relationship between its central characters. Bina48 is modeled after Bina Rothblatt, the wife of massively successful lawyer, satellite technology and biotechnology entrepreneur, and SiriusXM founder Martine Rothblatt. Married for over 40 years, Martine and Bina are almost oppressively in love (they even give themselves their own ship name, MarBina), and their pet project the Terasem Movement is intended as a gigantic tribute to their bond. Based on (the Rothblatts interpretations of) beloved sci-fi author Octavia Butlers works, the Terasem Movement seeks to find a way to upload peoples consciousness into artificial intelligence, to cheat death and live forever. Bina is essentially the guinea pig for the organizations efforts, her robot doppelganger powered by an algorithm based on her mind file, a virtual upload of the real womans personality and experiences based on a series of rigorous interviews.

The Terasem Movement and its goals raise a lot of obvious philosophical questions, but Love Machina doesnt try to ask them. The Rothblatts and the majority of the people interviewed in the film among them Terasem managing director Bruce Duncan, the Hanson Robotics engineers that developed Bina48, two of the couples children, and a gaggle of assorted artificial intelligence experts dont reveal any negative or contradictory feelings about the rise of AI or undercut the Rothblatts unwavering vision for the future in any way. Fascinating discussions about deaths role in human life, the nature of human consciousness, and the religious implications of living forever beg to be had about Terasems work, but the film doesnt want to start them.

The movie does tip its toes into the most uncomfortable element of the Bina48 story, the fact that a replica of a Black woman was created by a team of (seemingly) all-white people. Love Machina doesnt ignore it, including scenes where the team that created her discuss the difficulties that came from sculpting Black skin after previously making exclusively white male robots. The only person willing to probe deeper into the subject that we see in the film is Stephanie Dinkins, a professor and artist known for her series of videos in which she converses with Bina48. Dinkins, a Black woman who specializes in art exploring artificial intelligence, isnt necessarily anti-AI, but she reveals her discomfort with Bina48 as a representative of a Black woman, one whose code falls short of grasping the social context of her race. Its easily the most interesting discussion that the film has, but one that gets siloed off into a short section rather than meaningfully incorporated into the films discussions of AI at large.

Thats not the only angle of the film that goes unexamined. Frequently, Love Machina comes across as two films in one: a film about a marriage, and a film about the broader world of artificial intelligence. Rather than complement each other, both stories only flatten when paired together. The refusal to take a particularly strong approach to the question of artificial intelligence means theres very little interesting discussion about the topic to be had, and the film runs out of anything to say about Bina48 and its role in the advancement of AI very early on. In the final few minutes of the film, Sillen loses any semblance of focus and takes detours into the worlds of cryogenics and conversations with AI experts unrelated to Bina48, with little sense of how to meaningfully incorporate them into the broader film. All this is presented in a competent but thoroughly visual and editing style, that a few slightly creepy shots of Bina48 aside is content to just float from talking head to coverage without a real sense of style.

The Rothblatts story, presented via archival photos and video interviews done during the process of creating Binas mind file, is a potentially richer text that gets similarly diluted. For a film ostensibly about marriage, the recounting of their love story is painfully surface-level; you never actually know what draws the two into their passionate relationship. There are interesting threads about Martines gender transition and life as a prominent and powerful trans woman and the interracial nature of their family that the movie approaches timidly and fluffily, never adding dimension beyond the basic facts.

Late in the film, its revealed that part of the couples obsession with preventing death comes from the horrifying experience of witnessing one of their children go through a bout of childhood illness. Because the documentary doesnt tell us much about any of these people, the revelation doesnt particularly invite an emotional response. Like a lot of AI art, Love Machina is too fixated on technological advancement to leave any room for real, interesting human feelings.

Love Machina premiered at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival. It is currently seeking distribution.

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'Love Machina' Review: Artificial Intelligence Doc Fails to Ask the Interesting Questions - IndieWire

Hstoday How Artificial Intelligence Can Reshape Homeland Security in 2024 – HS Today – HSToday

The Department of Homeland Security is on a mission to make sure customer experience (CX) permeates through everything the agency does, and artificial intelligence (AI) can help.

As DHS acting secretary Dana Chinell said, Were really here to inject customer experience design, human-centered design, product management, digital services and skills into everything across the department from service delivery to acquisitions and procurement.

One path to success, as DHS IT leaders have outlined in their FY 2024-2028 IT Strategic Plan, is the use of AI to bolster CX efforts and meet IT modernization goals.

AI is a valuable tool for DHS due to the incredible volume of data and information collected, stored, and shared on a daily basis. DHS can use AI to extract actionable insights from these troves of information. In turn, the DHS workforce is better equipped to make informed decisions quickly, so issues are resolved promptly.

The benefits of using AI have already been realized by DHS for specific issues, such as border protection and immigration.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), for example, has started to use AI to deliver service more efficiently through machine learning models that eliminate redundant paperwork by pulling together information from disparate systems.

Another critical use case of AI is its use for research and development, as the Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) has implemented to help the people on the front lines of our homeland security mission, like first responders. S&Ts AI use has fueled efforts including data analysis, imaging, visualization, and predictive analytics to provide more insight into ongoing DHS efforts.

These data-driven insights can also illuminate solutions to key CX challenges, which any agency will encounter as they update and improve their processes. When working to optimize available data, there are three crucial considerations for agency leaders to keep in mind:

DHS will achieve success when it comes to CX goals if it takes a human-centered design (HCD) approach, which places emphasis on feedback and real-time adjustments. When feedback is continually captured and used to inform design, agencies can build and deliver trustworthy, accessible services for all Americans that help them feel heard and understood.

In December, the agency published an update on its Artificial Intelligence Task Force (AITF) which was created earlier in the year to guide the use of AI.

The Task Force collaborated with DHS Components and offices to initiate several pilot projects, including projects based on internet-accessible, commercially available Generative Al/Large Language Models (LLMs) to advance mission capabilities using AI, read the memo. These pilots will support the Departments understanding of the capabilities, limitations, and risks associated with AI while testing potential solutions. The pilots will also provide real-world data and information on how DHS can scale these technologies across the Department.

Its an important step for the agency, as the proper infrastructure must be in place for AI to be truly effective in reshaping how an agency operates. One example, as stated in the update memo, is the work being done by Customs and Border Patrol (CBP), which began establishing infrastructure requirements for developing, deploying, and managing machine learning models. Specifically, agency leaders have been developing operational pipelines and best practices for deploying and operating machine learning and AI models.

The transformation for DHS will not take place overnight. The IT strategic plan is a five-year strategic plan for a reason.

But the agency, working in concert with industrys top technology companies, has the ability to make significant strides very quickly.

That impact will have far-ranging, and incredibly positive, implications for the American people.

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Hstoday How Artificial Intelligence Can Reshape Homeland Security in 2024 - HS Today - HSToday

3 Magnificent Artificial Intelligence (AI) Semiconductor Stocks to Buy in 2024 – The Motley Fool

In this video, I will talk about three AI semiconductor companies that will greatly benefit from the AI revolution. These companies aren't talked about as much as Nvidia, AMD, or Intel, but they play an increasingly important role in the industry.

*Stock prices used were from the trading day of Jan. 22, 2024. The video was published on Jan. 23, 2024.

Neil Rozenbaum has positions in Intel. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Advanced Micro Devices, Nvidia, and Qualcomm. The Motley Fool recommends Intel and Super Micro Computer and recommends the following options: long January 2023 $57.50 calls on Intel, long January 2025 $45 calls on Intel, and short February 2024 $47 calls on Intel. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Neil is an affiliate of The Motley Fool and may be compensated for promoting its services. If you choose to subscribe through his link, he will earn some extra money that supports his channel. His opinions remain his own and are unaffected by The Motley Fool.

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3 Magnificent Artificial Intelligence (AI) Semiconductor Stocks to Buy in 2024 - The Motley Fool

TV channels are using AI-generated presenters to read the news. The question is, will we trust them? – BBC.com

By Chris Stokel-WalkerFeatures correspondent

A start-up is developing a news service presented by anchors created by artificial intelligence. Will it upend decades of parasocial relationships between television audiences and the people they watch on screen?

The footage wouldn't look out of place on many of the world's news channels.

For 22 minutes, a variety of polished news anchors stand in front of the camera and run down the day's news in a video posted on social media . But none of them are real. Instead, the anchors are generated by artificial intelligence (AI).

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The video is produced by Los Angeles-based Channel 1, a start-up created by entrepreneurs Adam Mosam and Scott Zabielski, who plan to roll out AI-generated news on a streaming TV channel later this year. "There seemed to be a very interesting opportunity to level up the user experience of news," says Mosam, by using AI to tailor content to individuals.

AI technology can also help translate scripts and interviews from one language to another capabilities that Channel 1 demonstrated in a promotional video, which was shared in December.

Channel 1 is the latest demonstration of AI-powered news presenters around the world. In Kuwait, an AI persona by the name of Fedha ran through the headlines for Kuwait News. Hermes presented the news in May 2023 for Greek state broadcaster ERT. South Korean broadcaster SBShanded over the duties of news presenting to Zae-In, an AI-generated deepfake, for five months this year. There are others in India and Taiwan, too all created by AI.

But there's one key question still to be answered: will viewers trust news delivered by AI, rather than humans?

Trust in the humans presenting the news has dropped to an all-time low, according to a survey by public opinion polling firm Ipsos. Just 42% of people in the UK trust TV newsreaders, down 16 percentage points in a year. The scepticism around news presenters as independent arbiters of truth is an unusual modern phenomenon, with many choosing to get their news instead from individual creators or influencers.

Those social media stars leverage a connection with their audience called parasocial influence. First coined in the 1950s by academics at the University of Chicago, parasocial relationships were defined as the belief that viewers of nightly news programmes of the time had that the anchor behind the desk was talking through the camera directly to them. News presenters became more than just journalists telling you the news; they were friends, welcomed into your living rooms night after night.

Social media influencers have co-opted that same direct to camera format and perceived personal connection to great success. "It's interesting how the 'parasocial' label has evolved from describing the affinity that individuals might feel with remote newscasters to something way broader," says Christine H Tran, who studies digital platforms and labour at the University of Toronto. "You can be in a parasocial relationship with a reporter or news Twitch streamer," she says, referring to the livestreaming video service. "But you can also apparently be in a parasocial relationship with a YouTuber, a singer, and an Instagram power couple."

But whether AI can replicate the personal connection is less certain. "You'll never have the same connection with an AI that you do with another human being," admits Mosam. However, he argues that people are no longer looking for impartiality. "We're not doing this because we think a robot does a better job than a human that's ridiculous."

The idea of journalists not reading the news isn't all that unusual, even if the idea that they're computer-generated is. "When I started in journalism, you had actors reading the news," says Nic Newman, senior research associate at the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism at the University of Oxford, and a former editor at the BBC. "People were kind of fine with that."

The fact that journalists haven't always read the news means that this trial could well succeed with limitations, reckons Newman. It'll only be useful for short news bulletins, but he's less certain that viewers will embrace a parasocial relationship with an AI anchor. "For delivering news programmes, I think the humanity is going to remain really important," he says.

It's an unknown that Tran is also uncertain about. "Will AI personalities inspire the same parasociality if their broadcasts are accurately labelled as 'AI content' and the viewers know there's no personal life outside the screen?" they ask. "That depends on if the platforms hosting AI presenters will be expected to label their content as AI like some platforms such as Instagram have considered moving towards."

Channel 1 and NewsGPT , which claims to be the world's first news channel generated entirely by AI, may have another question to answer: is it possible to totally remove the human from the loop?

At present, Channel 1 has nearly a dozen staff members working on checking AI-generated scripts and selecting stories that ought to be covered. Mosan says there's a 13-step process that Channel 1 goes through for every story before it is aired to ensure some of the issues around generative AI don't make it onto air. These include hallucination, where AI tools make up content, which is obviously a no-no in journalism. The company behind it is looking to hire an editor-in-chief early next year.

Being able to actually find newsworthy events and report on them is another element that AI may struggle with, agree Mosan and Newman. The Channel 1 test episode relied heavily on stories unearthed and footage filmed by human journalists. "Without those sources, if they get cut off, I don't really see how they can do it," says Newman. "If that raw material is not there, then the AI has absolutely nothing to work on."

Mosan believes that there are some elements of the reporting process that can be carried out by AI, but others that can't. "You'll never be able to gather intelligence person-to-person, and interview person-to-person, effectively," he says. "But I could fly a drone and analyse what I'm looking at." Newsgathering solely by AI, without humans in the loop, isn't in Channel 1's current set of plans.

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TV channels are using AI-generated presenters to read the news. The question is, will we trust them? - BBC.com

10 Artificial Intelligence Projects Revolutionising E-commerce – AutoGPT

Artificial intelligence has become a driving force in modern businesses, enabling efficiency, innovation, and strategic advantage. In the realm of e-commerce, the impact of AI continues to grow, transforming various aspects of online retail operations. By delving into the cutting-edge AI projects that are revolutionising e-commerce, businesses can harness these innovative technologies to stay ahead of the curve and thrive in the competitive digital landscape.

One of the key AI projects revolutionising e-commerce is AutoGPT, an artificial intelligence system with the capability to write its own code and execute Python scripts. Its advanced features open up a world of possibilities for automating and developing e-commerce platforms.

A. The capabilities of AutoGPT in writing code and executing Python scripts AutoGPT is designed to understand and generate code based on natural language input. This enables it to write code snippets or even complete programs in response to specific tasks. Its ability to execute Python scripts further enhances its potential to automate e-commerce operations and streamline various processes.

B. Potential applications in e-commerce automation and development AutoGPTs capabilities can be harnessed in numerous ways to revolutionise e-commerce. For instance, it can help create customised product recommendations based on customer behaviour, automate inventory management, and even optimise pricing strategies. Additionally, it can be used to improve website design, enhance user experience, and facilitate more efficient customer support.

C. How to leverage AutoGPT for e-commerce operations To make the most of AutoGPTs potential, e-commerce businesses should first identify areas where automation and development can have the most significant impact. They can then integrate AutoGPT into their existing systems and processes to optimise operations, reduce manual effort, and drive growth. As the technology continues to evolve, businesses should also stay updated on the latest advancements and explore new ways to leverage AI in e-commerce.

The collaboration between NVIDIA and Microsoft to bring AI to personal computing is a game-changer in the technology industry. This partnership aims to develop cutting-edge AI solutions that can be integrated into everyday devices, making advanced computing accessible to a broader audience. As a result, this collaboration has significant implications for e-commerce platforms, opening up new opportunities for enhanced user experiences and operations.

E-commerce platforms can benefit from the AI advancements brought about by the NVIDIA and Microsoft partnership. By leveraging AI technologies in areas such as image recognition, natural language processing, and recommendation engines, e-commerce businesses can offer more personalised and engaging shopping experiences. Improved user experiences can lead to higher customer satisfaction, ultimately resulting in increased sales and brand loyalty.

Moreover, the partnership between NVIDIA and Microsoft has the potential to revolutionise e-commerce operations. With AI-driven analytics and automation, businesses can optimise their supply chain management, inventory control, and marketing strategies. Additionally, AI can assist in identifying trends and patterns in customer behaviour, enabling e-commerce platforms to anticipate and adapt to changing consumer demands. This level of insight and adaptability is crucial for e-commerce businesses to thrive in the increasingly competitive digital marketplace.

In conclusion, the NVIDIA and Microsoft partnership represents a significant step forward in the integration of AI into personal computing. The resulting advancements in AI technology have far-reaching implications for e-commerce platforms, providing opportunities for enhanced user experiences and streamlined operations. By embracing AI-driven solutions, e-commerce businesses can stay ahead of the curve and ensure their continued success in the digital landscape.

As the e-commerce landscape becomes increasingly competitive, the importance of captivating product imagery cannot be overstated. In recent years, Google Pixels AI-powered photo editing tools have emerged as a game-changer, offering innovative features that can help e-commerce businesses create more dynamic and engaging visual content.

Google Pixels photo editing tools leverage artificial intelligence to enhance image quality, fine-tune colours, and optimise lighting conditions. These AI-powered features enable users to effortlessly create professional-grade product images, even without advanced editing skills. The technology can also intelligently identify and remove unwanted elements in photos, allowing e-commerce businesses to present their products in the best possible light.

The AI capabilities of Google Pixels photo editing tools hold immense potential for revolutionising e-commerce product imagery. By streamlining the editing process and enabling businesses to create high-quality visuals with ease, these tools can significantly improve product presentation and customer engagement. In turn, this can lead to increased conversion rates and enhanced customer satisfaction.

With the help of Google Pixels AI-powered photo editing tools, e-commerce businesses can create more dynamic and engaging visual content that stands out from the competition. By harnessing the power of artificial intelligence, these tools allow businesses to experiment with different styles, colours, and lighting effects to create captivating product images that resonate with their target audience. In the competitive world of e-commerce, embracing such cutting-edge technology can be a crucial factor in staying ahead of the curve and ensuring continued growth and success.

The AutoGPT Arena Hackathon is an event designed to inspire and encourage the development of innovative artificial intelligence solutions within the realm of e-commerce. The goals and objectives of this hackathon revolve around fostering creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving among participants. By focusing on the creation of AI agents to improve customer service and task handling, the AutoGPT Arena Hackathon has the potential to significantly benefit e-commerce businesses.

One of the primary areas of focus in the hackathon is the development of AI agents that can effectively handle customer service tasks, such as answering questions, processing returns, and resolving issues. These AI-driven customer service solutions can streamline the support process for e-commerce companies, providing customers with accurate, timely, and helpful assistance. By automating these tasks, businesses can reduce costs, improve efficiency, and ultimately enhance the overall customer experience.

Another key objective of the AutoGPT Arena Hackathon is the development of AI agents capable of handling various e-commerce tasks, such as inventory management, order processing, and sales forecasting. By leveraging artificial intelligence in these areas, e-commerce businesses can make more informed decisions, optimize their operations, and ultimately boost their bottom line. The potential benefits for e-commerce businesses participating in this hackathon are numerous, making it an excellent opportunity for companies to explore and experiment with cutting-edge AI technologies.

One of the key aspects of any successful e-commerce platform is the ability to offer responsive and helpful customer support. ChatGPT, an advanced AI technology, has the potential to revolutionise this aspect of e-commerce with its new voice and image capabilities. This allows for a more interactive and accessible way of providing support to customers, ensuring their questions and concerns are addressed efficiently and effectively.

Integrating ChatGPT into e-commerce platforms can significantly enhance the overall customer experience. The AI-driven technology can be programmed to handle a wide range of customer queries, from product information and order tracking to returns and refunds. With its advanced natural language processing capabilities, ChatGPT can understand user inputs in both text and voice formats, enabling a seamless communication experience.

Moreover, the ability of ChatGPT to process and understand images adds another layer of convenience for customers. For instance, if a customer has an issue with a product they received, they can simply send a photo of the item to the chatbot, which can then analyse the image and provide an appropriate response or solution.

By harnessing the power of ChatGPT, e-commerce businesses can create a more engaging and accessible customer support system that caters to the diverse needs of their users. This can ultimately lead to improved customer satisfaction, increased brand loyalty, and enhanced overall business performance.

When it comes to leveraging artificial intelligence in the realm of e-commerce, it is crucial to choose the most suitable AI solution for your specific needs. Two popular AI models, Auto-GPT and ChatGPT, offer distinct capabilities and advantages. Understanding the differences between these models and their potential applications in e-commerce can help you make an informed decision.

Auto-GPT and ChatGPT, both developed by OpenAI, share some similarities but have different focuses. Auto-GPT is designed to write code and execute scripts, making it an excellent choice for automation and development tasks. On the other hand, ChatGPT is more focused on generating human-like text responses, making it ideal for customer support and communication purposes.

One of the key advantages of Auto-GPT is its self-prompting capability, which allows it to autonomously generate and execute code without human intervention. This feature can be particularly beneficial for e-commerce businesses looking to automate various tasks and processes, such as inventory management, order processing, and customer support. By integrating Auto-GPT into your e-commerce platform, you can potentially create a more efficient and autonomous system that can handle routine tasks with minimal human input.

To choose the right AI solution for your e-commerce business, it is essential to consider your specific needs and objectives. If your primary goal is to streamline your e-commerce development and automation, Auto-GPT might be the better choice. However, if your focus is on enhancing customer support and communication, ChatGPT might be more suitable. By carefully evaluating the capabilities and strengths of each AI model, you can select the most appropriate solution to revolutionise your e-commerce operations.

The ambitions and setbacks of the Arrakis project offer valuable insights for e-commerce businesses looking to leverage AI technology. Initially, OpenAI aimed to create a highly efficient AI system with the Arrakis project. Despite its promising start, the project faced several challenges, ultimately leading to its discontinuation. Nonetheless, the experiences gained from this project provide important lessons for the future development of AI in e-commerce.

Ongoing efforts to create more efficient AI systems continue to drive innovation in the field. Researchers and developers are constantly pushing the boundaries of AI technology, exploring new possibilities and applications. As a result, e-commerce businesses have the opportunity to benefit from these advancements, using AI to enhance their operations, improve customer experiences, and boost their overall performance.

Key takeaways for e-commerce operations from the Arrakis project include the importance of setting realistic goals and expectations, learning from setbacks, and adapting strategies as needed. Furthermore, it highlights the need for continuous investment in AI research and development, as well as the value of collaborations and partnerships in driving innovation. By embracing these lessons, e-commerce businesses can better position themselves to leverage AI technology and remain at the forefront of their industry.

Artificial intelligence has made significant strides in enhancing various aspects of e-commerce, including communication and marketing. One notable innovation is the use of AI-generated prompts, which play a crucial role in crafting highly effective e-commerce strategies. By generating relevant and engaging prompts, AI can help businesses tailor their messaging and target customers more accurately.

One valuable resource in this regard is the Ultimate ChatGPT Prompt Collection, which offers a wide range of AI-generated prompts suitable for various e-commerce applications. Utilising this collection can bring about numerous benefits, such as improving the overall quality of marketing communications, saving time spent on creating content, and ensuring that messaging remains consistent across different channels. The collection also allows for rapid iteration of marketing ideas, enabling e-commerce businesses to test different approaches and quickly refine their strategies.

By incorporating the Ultimate ChatGPT Prompt Collection and other AI-driven tools into their communication and marketing efforts, e-commerce businesses can enjoy a more streamlined and efficient approach. This integration can lead to better customer engagement, higher conversion rates, and ultimately, a more successful e-commerce venture. As the field of AI continues to advance, businesses can expect even greater benefits from incorporating this cutting-edge technology into their operations.

In this article, we have discussed various artificial intelligence projects that are revolutionising the e-commerce industry. From AutoGPTs capabilities in automation and development to ChatGPTs enhanced customer support, these AI solutions offer a wide range of benefits for businesses in the online retail space.

As we look towards the future of AI in e-commerce, it is evident that its applications will continue to expand and evolve. Businesses that embrace these cutting-edge technologies will undoubtedly stand to gain a competitive edge and enjoy continued growth and success.

Encouraging businesses to adopt AI solutions is not only essential for their own progress but also for the overall advancement of the e-commerce industry. By staying informed about the latest AI projects and understanding their potential applications, companies can make informed decisions about implementing these technologies and shaping their strategies for the future.

Unlock the potential of artificial intelligence for your e-commerce business by exploring the mentioned AI projects and their applications. Delve into the innovative technologies that are revolutionising e-commerce operations:

Stay ahead of the curve and enhance your e-commerce strategies with the power of AI.

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10 Artificial Intelligence Projects Revolutionising E-commerce - AutoGPT

3 of the Smartest AI Stocks to Buy Now for Long-Term Growth – InvestorPlace

Are you looking for AI stocks that could provide long-term growth? Artificial intelligence is undoubtedly the most popular theme of 2023, grabbing headlines left and right and significantly impacting the performance of most of the IT industry.

The impact of AI has created new opportunities for various industries to grow and expand, ranging from health care to banking and even real estate. The applications of AI are virtually limitless. Now that weve arrived at the 2024 starting line, the next question is, will the 2023 darlings remain at the top, or will a new generation of AI stocks take the lead? Investors should consider purchasing the top AI stocks in 2024 for long-term growth.

First on our list is a global leader in Artificial Intelligence and computational science. Altair Engineering (NASDAQ:ALTR) has been a groundbreaker in AI and computational science by revolutionizing the cloud solutions and high-performance computing landscape (HPC). Its specialization in data analytics, simulation software, and optimization products opens its doors to diverse clients.

ALTRs latest version of HPCWorks 2024 provided its users with an enhanced user interface and functionality with the integration of AI that helps streamline workflow distribution and optimize cloud scaling. The company also offers client engineering services to help support customers in the long term with its ongoing expertise.

Looking closer at its financials, ALTRs most recent report points to a robust 14.8% YoY growth in software product revenue and a 12.3% total revenue growth YoY. Non-GAAP metrics also showed a 126.3% rise in adjusted EBITDA and a 197.0% increase in net income YoY.

Analysts also praise ALTR with their Strong Buy recommendation and a projected high target price of $95.00. That might not look like a lot in terms of current price levels, but investors should also remember that ALTR is one of the AI and computational science leaders. As the technology moves towards adoption in every part of our society, so does its growth. In our view, thats a growth story we want to be a part of, so we recommend ALTR as a buy-rated AI stock for long-term growth.

Source: shutterstock.com/Victor Runov

The next one on our list may not be a direct AI play, but it is one of the primary beneficiaries of the AI boom. Super Micro Computer (NASDAQ:SMCI) is an application-optimized server and storage systems provider for enterprise data centers in high-demanding tasks like cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and edge computing. Unlike other companies like Nvidia, which sells GPUs, the company offers a complete IT solution wherein it packages these and other components into server racks for sale to a broad audience. That means that as AI adoptions grow to a full scale, so will SMCI.

The company has also announced its upcoming support for the new NVIDIA HGX H200, which comes with H200 Tensor Core GPU and newer rack solutions optimized for AI, edge computing, and cloud service providers.

Despite missing the mark in a few key points, its latest financials and announcements make a strong case for a worthy investment for AI enthusiasts. Net sales were strong at$2.12 billion, growing 14.5% YoY. Meanwhile, net income ended at $157 million, lower YoY due to increased operating expenses, mainly research and development, and lower operating income. Despite that, SMCI maintains a positive outlook for FY24, which helps boost investor confidence. YTD, the stock is already up over 52% and the sky might really be the limit on this stock in 2024.

The final company on our list of AI stocks is another frontrunner in the AI race that could provide long-term growth. Baidu Inc (NASDAQ:BIDU) is mainly known for its Chinese language Internet search engine, one of the most popular ones used globally.

The companys operations fall under two segments: Baidu Core for its search-based, feed-based, and online marketing services with AI initiatives, and iQIYI for its online entertainment content produced originally or with other content partners. BIDU has been investing heavily in AI, and its latest ERNIE 4.0, accessible through ERNIE Bot and Cloud API, shows the companys commitment to being at the forefront of AI advancements.

Baidus latest financials indicate a 6% YoY revenue growth. Meanwhile, the Baidu Core segment reported a 5% growth in total revenue and a 6% growth in non-online marketing revenue. In addition, the companys Apollo Go ride-hailing service also had a substantial 73% increase in reported rides, with cumulative rides for the public reaching 4.1 million. The Baidu app also saw a 5% increase in monthly active users YoY.

Like most stocks in China, the 1-YR performance hasnt been stellar. In fact, BIDU is down ~22% over the past year. However, with stellar numbers and a solid commitment to advancing AI, Baidu is one of the best stocks for investors looking to ride the AI boom.

On the date of publication, Rick Orford did not have (either directly or indirectly) any positions in the securities mentioned in this article. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer, subject to the InvestorPlace.com Publishing Guidelines.

Rick Orford is a Wall Street Journal best-selling author, investor, influencer, and mentor. His work has appeared in the most authoritative publications, including Good Morning America, Washington Post, Yahoo Finance, MSN, Business Insider, NBC, FOX, CBS, and ABC News.

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3 of the Smartest AI Stocks to Buy Now for Long-Term Growth - InvestorPlace

The 3 Most Promising Artificial Intelligence Stocks in 2024, According to Grok AI – InvestorPlace

AI stock picks, courtesy of an AI trained to keep an eye on current trends.

Source: shutterstock.com/Victor Runov

With the steady rise of artificial intelligence, we asked Grok AI for its thoughts on the future of the market. Grok AI, or just Grok, provides a new take on the original ChatGPT format of large language modeling. We then asked it to help identify the top artificial intelligence stocks.

Founded by Elon Musk in March of 2023, xAI aims to integrate the Grok chatbot with X, formerly Twitter. Groks take on AI chatting features more wit and humor than the competition while claiming to seek only truth. With these defining features, Grok provides more up-to-date and pertinent information with the ability to evaluate current events.

This might make it the best AI to ask about the stock market. Through its ability to search the web for news and data, Groks conclusions differ from the standard chatbot. So, how do its stock picks measure up? These three AI stock picks by Grok AI provide some details to consider when using AI to research stocks.

Source: Below the Sky / Shutterstock.com

Nvidia (NASDAQ:NVDA) makes the computers responsible for training AI, so no wonder Grok considers them a good pick. While other AI companies specialize in optimizing software for training their chatbots, Nvidia controls the whole process.

By designing the most efficient graphics processing units (GPUs) on the market, Nvidia maximizes the amount of math its machines perform. Through using GPUs, Nvidias AI training software completes thousands of calculations per second in parallel. This results in blazing-fast speeds for training the chatbot to interpret data and respond with information.

With this unique advantage, Nvidia rapidly transforms its AI applications to respond to industry trends. Groks developers even use Nvidia GPUs to train the bot, which speaks volumes about the critical role of the technology. A lack of serious competition in the GPU space and stellar performance have made Nvidia a strong buy option. It also helps that its one of the AI stock picks by Grok AI.

Source: The Art of Pics / Shutterstock.com

Another solid pick by Grok, Microsofts (NASDAQ:MSFT) position in the AI race comes from its ubiquitous software. Almost every tech user in the world interacts with a Microsoft application in some form or another.

Furthermore, Microsoft now integrates AI in nearly every live service they develop. When a company researching AI has access to this level of data, it results in rapid product development. Add on the fact that Microsofts value continues increasing and this stock continues to be a strong buy. Microsofts investments in OpenAI and ChatGPT also put the company in a diversified position when it comes to research.

Its focus on pioneering new chatbot technologies makes it a direct competitor to Musks Grok project. This makes Grok seem even more trustworthy, as it openly recommends the stock of one of its competing models. Though Microsofts Copilot AI may not be the stuff of headlines yet, its projects show promise.

Source: Tada Images / Shutterstock.com

The last, but certainly not least of AI stock picks by Grok AI is Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN). While investors focus on Amazons endless retail selection and shipping speeds, the company has an AI ace up its sleeve. By leveraging its Amazon Web Services suites, Amazon possesses endless business data to train AI for practical applications.

Since machine learning serves as the focus of Amazons AI projects, the company currently enables corporations to become more efficient. This unique approach to AI services and Amazons high potential stock make for a strong buy position. With this third pick, Groks preferences for stocks reflect an AI that focuses on strong historical performance and ideal positions.

These types of stocks serve as a benchmark for their industry and tend towards stability. Interestingly enough, an AI programmed to tap into current events and seek truth seems genuinely risk averse. If you are looking for high-value artificial intelligence stocks, start here.

On the date of publication, Viktor Zarevdid not have (either directly or indirectly) any positions in the securities mentioned in this article.The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer, subject to the InvestorPlace.comPublishing Guidelines.

Viktor Zarev is a scientist, researcher, and writer specializing in explaining the complex world of technology stocks through dedication to accuracy and understanding.

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The 3 Most Promising Artificial Intelligence Stocks in 2024, According to Grok AI - InvestorPlace

Misinformation And Irresponsible AI: Experts Forecast How Technology May Shape Our Near Future – Eurasia Review

From misinformation and invisible cyber attacks, to irresponsible AI that could cause events involving multiple deaths, expert futurists have forecast how rapid technology changes may shape our world by 2040.

As the pace of computer technology advances surges ahead, and systems become increasingly interlinked, it is vital to know how these fast technology advances could impact the world in order to take steps to prevent the worst outcomes.

Using a Delphi study, a well known technique for forecasting, a team of cyber security researchers led by academics from Lancaster University interviewed 12 experts in the future of technologies.

The experts, ranged from chief technology officers in businesses, consultant futurists and a technology journalist to academic researchers. They were asked how particular technologies may develop and change our world over the next 15 years by 2040, what risks they might pose, and how to address the challenges that may arise.

Most of the experts forecasted exponential growth in Artificial Intelligence (AI) over the next 15 years, and many also expressed concern that corners could be cut in the development of safe AI. They felt that this corner cutting could be driven by nation states seeking competitive advantage. Several of the experts even considered it possible that poorly implemented AI could lead to incidents involving many deaths, although other experts disagreed with this view.

Dr Charles Weir, Lecturer at Lancaster Universitys School of Computing and Communications and lead researcher of the study, said: Technology advances have brought, and will continue to bring, great benefits. We also know there are risks around some of these technologies, including AI, and where their development may goeveryones been discussing thembut the possible magnitude of some of the risks forecast by some of the experts was staggering.

But by forecasting what potential risks lie just beyond the horizon we can take steps to avoid major problems.

Another significant concern held by most of the experts involved in the study was that technology advances will make it easier for misinformation to spread. This has the potential to make it harder for people to tell the difference between truth and fiction with ramifications for democracies.

Dr Weir said: We are already seeing misinformation on social media networks, and used by some nation states. The experts are forecasting that advances in technologies will make it much easier for people and bad actors to continue spreading misleading material by 2040.

Other technologies were forecast to not have as big as impact by 2040, including quantum computing which experts see as having impacts over a much longer timeframe, and Blockchain which was dismissed by most of the experts as being a source of major change.

The experts forecast that:

By 2040, competition between nation states and big tech companies will lead to corners being cut in the development of safe AI

Quantum computing will have limited impact by 2040

By 2040 there will be ownership of public web assets. These will be identified and traded through digital tokens

By 2040 it will be harder to distinguish truth from fiction because widely accessible AI can massively generate doubtful content

By 2040 there will be less ability to distinguish accidents from criminal incidents due to the decentralised nature and complexity of systems

The forecasters also offered some suggested solutions to help mitigate against some of the concerns raised. Their suggestions included governments introducing AI purchasing safety principles, new laws to regulate AI safety. In addition, universities could be vital by introducing courses combining technical skills and legislation.

These forecasts will help policy makers and technology professionals make strategic decisions around developing and deploying novel computing technologies. They are outlined in the paper Interlinked Computing in 2040: Safety, Truth, Ownership and Accountability which has been published by the peer-reviewed journalIEEE Computer.

The papers authors are: Charles Weir and Anna Dyson of Lancaster University; Olamide Jogunola and Katie Paxton-Fear of Manchester Metropolitan University; and Louise Dennis of Manchester University.

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Misinformation And Irresponsible AI: Experts Forecast How Technology May Shape Our Near Future - Eurasia Review

This Week in AI: FTC, Partnerships and Enterprise Deployments – PYMNTS.com

Generative artificial intelligence tends to grow in leaps and bounds.

And increasingly, so do the companies behind the technology, including Microsoft, which reached a market valuation of $3 trillion Wednesday (Jan. 24) due to the impact of AI on investors appetites, consolidating its position as one of the largest public stocks.

While the addition of ChatGPT has reportedly not helped Microsofts Bing search product take on Googles flagship 800-pound Gorilla, it still puts the Redmond, Washington-based tech giant in rarified company. Apple is the only other public business to have crossed the $3 trillion threshold.

Still, all that growth hasnt come without scrutiny.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) opened an inquiry into ongoing investments and partnerships in the AI sector Thursday (Jan. 25), ordering Big Tech companies Alphabet, Amazon, Anthropic, Microsoft and OpenAI to turn over information about their ecosystem investments and partnerships as it investigates any effect they may be having on AIs competitive landscape.

Here is the weekly roundup of the cant-miss AI news that PYMNTS found, tracked and covered.

Read also: AIs Role in Advancing Real-Time Payments

Platforms, providers and businesses are embedding AI into end-user touchpoints.

PayPal announced Thursday that it is introducing what it termed a reimagined checkout experience that will reduce checkout times by as much as half and use AI to craft personalized recommendations to consumers. Meanwhile, online payments firm AffiniPay announced Wednesday that it embedded generative AI into its legal technology offerings.

On the commerce front, Etsy launched a hub Wednesday that uses AI human curation to help shoppers find gifts for any occasion. And PYMNTS took a piercing look Monday (Jan. 22) at how retailers are folding generative AI capabilities into their 2024 playbooks.

PYMNTS Intelligence found that shopping beats out banking for consumer preference around AI-enabled experiences. And AI is increasingly giving the fitness category a workout.

To help firms more seamlessly integrate AI into their operations, OpenAI unveiled Thursday new embedding models, application programming interface usage management tools and plans to reduce pricing for one of its models.

But its not just commerce and checkout where AI is having an impact; the innovation is also being embedded across hardware devices.

Apple is reportedly pushing to bring AI to the iPhone, quietly making a series of acquisitions, hires and updates to its hardware. Meanwhile, Samsung earlier this month introduced its new Galaxy S series phone, billing it as a new era of mobile AI. It is part of what researchers believe will be a wave of more than 1 billion AI-powered smartphones expected to ship in the next three years.

Due to the volume of resources and costs involved in developing and deploying AI systems, and despite the FTCs scrutiny, partnerships are emerging as a popular and even necessary approach to commercializing contemporary AI and building out the frontier capabilities of the technology.

Increasingly, the government itself wants to get in on the action.

The National Science Foundation announced Wednesday a federal program designed to increase access to AI resources, including tools, data and computing infrastructure, beyond just the worlds most valuable tech businesses.

The pilot program, called the National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource comes after the White Houses executive order mandating that barriers to entry to AI infrastructure be lowered. Several Big Tech companies will be tasked with providing resources, funding and tools alongside 11 federal agencies.

Elsewhere on the federal front, the White House said it wants AI to be good news for small businesses.

In the private sphere, months after investing in Hugging Face, Google launched a partnership Thursday with the open-source AI firm. The collaboration will let developers use Google Cloud infrastructure for all Hugging Face services, while also allowing for the training of Hugging Face AI models on Google Cloud.

This comes as Meta is intensifying competition in the AI market by consolidating its two advanced AI divisions the Fundamental AI Research team and its top-level generative AI product team into a single group.

The move underscores how Meta is now prioritizing product-level progress in developing general-purpose AI chatbots and securing top talent in the field of AI engineering as opposed to attempting to lure top researchers to work on strategies like Metas metaverse, which is losing over $1 billion a month.

Organizations are determining how to move from sharpening their AI strategies to deploying them.

But when it comes to effectively deploying AI systems within the enterprise, there are some tech terms business leaders need to know, and some that they can leave to their engineering and data teams (for now).

PYMNTS wrote Tuesday about how anthropomorphizing AI systems, or attributing human-like characteristics to them, can pose several dangers. For many business use cases of the technology, doing so can serve as a fatal distraction from the utility AI can offer.

Education and communication about the nature of AI systems can help manage expectations and ensure responsible use. Within an enterprise environment, deploying AI systems with a clear-eyed approach to quantifiable goals and expected return on investment is key to success.

While news of AI that can surpass human intelligence is helping fuel the hype of the technology, the reality is far more driven by math than it is by myth.

At a fundamental level, generative AI models are built to generate reasonable continuations of text by drawing from a ranked list of words, each given different weighted probabilities based on the dataset the model was trained on.

PYMNTS reported Tuesday about how colleges and universities are increasingly weaving AI into their lesson plans.

If you look at the maturity of AI models over the years, if you go back 20 years, AI was more around recognition, and gradually that evolved into coming up with insights and serving as a recommendation engine, RXO Chief Information Officer Yoav Amiel told PYMNTS in an interview posted Friday (Jan. 26). Today, AI is capable of task completion and thats what gets me excited.

Finally, economist David Evans penned a piece for PYMNTS on how to think about AI regulation.

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This Week in AI: FTC, Partnerships and Enterprise Deployments - PYMNTS.com

Why Data Annotation Remains a Human Domain: The Boundaries of Artificial Intelligence – Medium

The Unmatched Complexity of Context Photo by julien Tromeur on Unsplash

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has undeniably revolutionized the way we interact with technology and process vast amounts of information.

From self-driving cars to virtual assistants, the scope of AIs capabilities seems limitless.

However, amidst this wave of technological advancement, there is a crucial question that often goes unnoticed: Can AI truly replace the human touch in data annotation?

As someone who has dipped their toes into this complex world, I can assure you that data annotation remains, and will likely always remain, a human domain.

In this blog post, we will explore the reasons behind this assertion, delve into the intricate boundaries of artificial intelligence, and reflect on personal experiences that illuminate the essence of human involvement in data annotation.

Data annotation is more than just labeling images, text, or audio; it involves deciphering context, nuance, and the subtleties that are inherent to human communication. While AI algorithms have made incredible strides in understanding language and visual data, they still struggle to grasp the intricacies of context.

For instance, consider the sentence, She plays a mean guitar. To a human, its evident that mean in this context means exceptionally skilled.

However, an AI might misinterpret it as derogatory, missing the nuance completely. This illustrates the limits of AI when it comes to understanding the richness of human language.

One of the most fascinating aspects of data annotation is the dance between subjectivity and interpretation. When humans annotate data, their unique perspectives and cultural backgrounds come into play. This subjectivity can be a double-edged sword, as it introduces biases, but it also adds depth and authenticity to the annotations. In contrast, AI algorithms strive for objectivity, which might seem like a noble pursuit. Still, it

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Why Data Annotation Remains a Human Domain: The Boundaries of Artificial Intelligence - Medium

Medical illustration draws on knowledge of anatomy, cell biology, more – The Washington Post

Medical illustrators draw what cannot be seen, watch what has never been done and tell thousands about it without saying a word.

For decades, this slogan appeared on the website and printed materials of the Association of Medical Illustrators. Although the association no longer uses this tag line, it is still an accurate description of the profession.

I have been drawing what cant be seen and watching whats never been done on a daily basis for over 30 years, and teaching my students to do the same.

But what exactly does all of that mean, and how does it improve medicine?

You may have heard the adage, A picture is worth a thousand words. In that same vein, medical illustrators use pictures to teach complex scientific concepts. As the famed medical illustrator Frank H. Netter once said, pictures eliminate the need for the lecturer or the author to translate what he has in his mind into words and for the listener or the student to translate those words back into a mental image.

The use of illustrations to communicate medical information has a long history, dating back at least to ancient Egypt and flourishing in the Renaissance. The work of 16th-century anatomists Giacomo Berengario da Carpi and Andreas Vesalius set a precedent for the use of detailed illustrations to teach anatomy, a practice that continues to this day.

The proliferation of illustrated anatomy atlases in the Renaissance coincided with the widespread acceptance of cadaver dissection. The earliest known human dissections were performed in the third century B.C. The practice was prohibited throughout the Middle Ages but became common again in the 13th and 14th centuries.

By the 1500s, dissections, usually of executed criminals, had become public spectacles. Demand for bodies eventually outstripped the supply of executed convicts, leading to grave robbing and even murder.

In addition to depicting the location and features of objects such as organs, illustrations described events happening over time, such as the progression of a disease or the steps in a surgical procedure. Generations of surgeons learned new procedures from meticulously illustrated surgical atlases. An early example, William Harveys classic 17th-century work Exercitatio Anatomica de Motu Cordis et Sanguinis in Animalibus depicts the direction of blood flow through the veins of the forearm.

Today, surgeons can practice a procedure hundreds of times using virtual reality before trying it on a real patient. Modern physiology and pathology texts include countless illustrations of the body, not just at the anatomical level, but also at the cellular and molecular. So valuable are these depictions of complex pathways and interactions that many science journals now require papers to include a graphical abstract, or single illustration that summarizes the content of each paper.

Medical illustrators employ special tools and training to visualize things that are normally hidden from the naked eye.

All professionally trained medical illustrators study human gross anatomy, including dissecting a cadaver, to visualize the internal structures of the body. Illustrators also use medical imaging, such as CT and MRI scans, to reconstruct the body in three dimensions.

At the cellular level, medical illustrators must understand how to use microscopy techniques to find references for accurate depictions of cellular structures.

Objects at the smallest scale atoms and many molecules are smaller than the wavelength of visible light. This means they are below the theoretical limit of what can be seen, even with the most powerful light microscope. So researchers experimentally determine the structures of molecules using techniques such as X-ray crystallography and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy instead.

Medical illustrators learn to locate and retrieve data on the structure of molecules from sites such as the RCSB Protein Databank. They also use a host of visualization software to render them in 3D.

Medical illustrators at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention used these techniques to create the famous red-spiked coronavirus image that went viral during the pandemic.

Obviously, you cant really watch something that has never been done. But medical illustrators can help conceptualize new processes and techniques before they become a reality.

For example, they might illustrate how an experimental drug could theoretically work before it enters testing. Similarly, illustrations can be critical in pre-surgical planning, such as for the separation of conjoined twins Abbigail and Isabelle Carlsen at the Mayo Clinic in 2006. Working from nearly 6,000 radiographic images, the clinics medical illustrators produced five detailed illustrations of the twins anatomy. They even generated 3D-printed models, notably of their shared liver.

The illustrations were critical in training the 70 surgeons, nurses and technicians involved in the case. They also served as a road map for the ultimately successful surgery, hung up on the operating theater walls during the procedure.

To draw what cant be seen and watch whats never been done, medical illustrators require specialized training. Most medical illustrators in North America are trained at accredited masters programs. Accepted students must have a strong science background and a portfolio demonstrating outstanding drawing skills.

Once in the program, their science training continues with some combination of courses in neuroanatomy, embryology, histology, cell biology, pathology and immunology. Specialized courses in surgical observation and cellular and molecular visualization also include significant science content.

Students receive extensive training in computer graphics, including 2D and 3D modeling and animation, interactive media, virtual and augmented reality, and educational game and mobile app design. Courses also emphasize the principles of design to create effective visuals.

Medical illustrators learn to consider the educational level of their audience. Illustrations made to educate a child diagnosed with leukemia would be very different from those aimed at the oncologist treating the disease.

Many medical illustrators pursue board certification to become a certified medical illustrator, which recognizes professional competency. Continued certification requires continuing education in the biomedical sciences, artistic techniques and business practices.

All of this education and training is essential to ensure that medical illustrators communicate complex scientific information with accuracy and clarity. I like to think of medical illustrators as teachers we instruct with pictures.

James A. Perkins is distinguished professor of medical illustration at the Rochester Institute of Technology.

This article was produced in collaboration with theconversation.com.

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Medical illustration draws on knowledge of anatomy, cell biology, more - The Washington Post

Where To Watch Anatomy Of A Fall – Screen Rant

Summary

The demand to watch Anatomy of a Fall is increasing in the wake of its triumphant, headline-making premiere at the 76th Cannes Film Festival. Already nominated for five Oscars at te 2024 Academy Awards, the thrilling courtroom drama stars Sandra Hller as a writer, also named Sandra, who is tasked with proving her innocence after her husband, Samuel, dies under mysterious circumstances. To make matters more complicated, Daniel, Sandra and Samuel's 11-year-old blind son, is the only other witness to Samuel's death.

Directed by Sibyl filmmaker Justine Triet, Anatomy of a Fall (Anatomie d'une chute) is only the third film helmed by a woman to win Cannes' prestigious Palme d'Or. In late August 2023, the acclaimed film debuted in France, with its ticket sales sandwiched between those of the slightly more successful Barbie and the slightly less successful Oppenheimer. Ambitious, unpredictable, and deeply thought-provoking, Anatomy of a Fall autopsies the characters' relationship, Sandra and Vincent's marriage, and the very nature of truth. Given its early awards buzz, it's shaping up to be one of 2023's best movies that is climbing high on watchlists across the globe.

Anatomy of a Fall had its premiere on May 21, 2023, with it debuting at Cannes. Neon acquired the rights to distribute the film in North America shortly after, with it being given a limited release on October 13, 2023. Anatomy of a Fall was given a wider release the next week, with it still showing in some theaters. While it may be hard for some eager moviegoers to find Anatomy of a Fall, the film can still be found in many theaters ahead of the Oscars on March 10, 2024.

Theatrical showtimes for Anatomy of a Fall can be found via the links below:

VOD Platform

Rental Price

Apple TV

$5.99

Amazon Prime Video

$5.99

Vudu

$5.99

Google Play Movies & TV

$6.99

The unforeseeable plot and startling performances make Anatomy of a Fall one of fall 2023's most anticipated movies, but its availability to watch has been different around the world. Thankfully, US-based audiences finally have the opportunity to watch Anatomy of a Fall in theaters, though cinephiles may have to wait a few months before a streaming release date is set. The sensational courtroom drama first hit US theaters on Friday, October 13 with a limited release. By the following week, Anatomy of a Fall was playing in both national chains and first-run indie cinemas across the country.

Unfortunately, Anatomy of a Fall isn't a movie with a same-day release on streaming. While the picture's US distributor, Neon, hasn't released much information regarding a streaming release date, it's likely that Anatomy of a Fall will follow the terms of Neon's deal with Hulu. Neon-distributed titles typically stream exclusively on Hulu approximately four months after their theatrical release in the United States. As such, Anatomy of a Fall may not be released on Hulu until February 2024.

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Where To Watch Anatomy Of A Fall - Screen Rant

Anatomy of a Fall rode a debatable mystery to the 2024 Oscars – Polygon

These days, a water cooler conversation can flare up and burn out in days. Its rare to see any movie or TV show still spark any kind of unifying online discussion more than a week after its debut on a new platform, or after the final episode airs. For every Barbie or Oppenheimer or Barbenheimer, where critics, fans, reactors, streamers, podcasters, and others keep talking about the project for months after its debut, there are dozens of Netflix shows where the conversation stops after release weekend, or would-be blockbusters that make some money at the box office, but that viewers seem to have forgotten before the final credit rolls.

One of the more surprising recent movies to beat the too-much-competition-for-attention curse (or is it the short-attention-span curse?) was Justine Triets Anatomy of a Fall, a two-and-a-half-hour French drama about the fallout of a troubled relationship that ends with a literal fall. Anatomy of a Fall wasnt a Barbie-sized box office blowout, or the kind of short-term cultural fad that sparks Saturday Night Live sketches or endless online memes. After its French debut in August 2023, it opened in just five theaters in America, and at its largest nationwide expansion, it was still in fewer than 600 theaters. Oscar season may change that, but up until now, Triets latest has been firmly on the arthouse circuit.

And yet Anatomy of a Fall wound up lingering in those theaters for more than three months, as word of mouth spread and a steady trickle of people saw it and recommended it to their friends, followers, or audiences. It was endlessly discussed and picked apart, with different theories about the movies central mysteries. And it wound up on hundreds of critics top 10 lists for 2023 and won dozens of minor industry awards, along with the prestigious Palme dOr at the Cannes Film Festival, where it first premiered.

Why has the film lingered so long and had such an impact in an environment where filmgoers keep complaining about longer movies and the focus of cultural conversation normally shifts rapidly away from any release shortly after its debut? There are a few reasons, all of which together add up to a potent conversation.

The movies biggest secret selling point is the endless questions it leaves behind. (Secret in the sense that this aspect of the movie would be hard to advertise in a way that sounds appealing instead of frustrating.) The movie is designed around mysteries that are never really solved, but are layered to give viewers plenty of ammunition for any argument they want to make. More significantly, the film supports a level of nuance and meaning to those arguments that goes beyond basic Whodunit-level discussions, and into much bigger questions about what writer-director Triet and her screenwriting partner (and real-world partner) Arthur Harari are ultimately saying.

Sandra Hller stars as the films central figure, Sandra Voyter, a famous German novelist on a lengthy creative retreat with her husband Samuel (Samuel Theis) and their blind 11-year-old son Daniel (Milo Machado Graner) in a remote chalet in the French Alps. Early in the film, Samuel falls out of a third-story window of the chalet and dies. While the film is billed as a thriller (and got plenty of press suggesting it was a Hitchcock-inspired murder mystery), it doesnt operate at a thrillers pacing or with a thrillers tension: Triet builds the narrative slowly, letting viewers learn more and more about Sandra and Samuels relationship via other peoples reporting on it particularly when shes accused of his murder, and ends up in French court, defending herself.

Did she kill him? While an outsider might look at the facts of the case and believe she had ample motive for murder, how does she really feel about her relationship with Samuel? More importantly, does her son Daniel truly believe her version of the story? And how do his choices in the film reflect what he believes? These arent simple questions in Anatomy of a Fall, and Triet gives viewers plenty of potentially contradictory answers in each case, as well as plenty of ways to inject their own experiences, biases, and feelings into the process of finding the answers.

Triet has said that part of the motive for the movie was looking at the way courts can be more interested in creating narratives than revealing truths. When Sandra is on trial, much of the courtroom action revolves around different characters spinning up elaborate, detailed stories about how they think her marriage worked, and what particular moments or choices meant to her. Her own explanations for these same moments or choices are dismissed as self-serving or deceptive and she certainly doesnt help her case when she does lie about certain things.

Most centrally, an oily, notably misogynistic prosecutor (or, in French terms, advocate general), played to bristling perfection by Antoine Reinartz, makes a sumptuous public meal out of a recording of Sandra and Samuel fighting a recording that has its own prominent ambiguities. That prosecutor is openly the villain of the piece, but when he catches Sandra out about places where she deliberately shaded or hid the truth, he scores some victories on the audiences behalf, uncovering things they want to know in order to understand Sandra better, and to unravel her complex situation.

One of the reasons Anatomy of a Fall has proved so discussable, so indelible, is that it isnt really about discovering whether Sandra pushed Samuel out of that window. Its more about considering how impossible it is for any outsider to understand what goes on in any close, private relationship, whether its a marriage, or the link between parent and child, between siblings, or between anyone else whos had time and space to develop an intimate connection that shuts other people out. Relationships tend to have their own language, literally as well as figuratively, and Triet illustrates how the neat, pat narratives we all understand like He was abusive, so she killed him, or She stole his creative ideas, so he shut her out are rarely nuanced enough to apply to real relationships.

Thats a heady concept for a courtroom drama or a relationship thriller, both of which tend to have their own pat narrative expectations. Which is another reason Anatomy of a Fall has spawned so much cultural conversation: Its an unusual, ambitious, complicated project, which tends to keep a movie from becoming a populist hit, but often guarantees a film traction specifically with the kind of audiences who like to think about and discuss movies, from critics and awards bodies to fans of well-made arthouse cinema.

Then there are the central performances. Hller was also a critical favorite in year-end awards for her portrayal of Sandra, a complicated woman whos sympathetic more often than repellent, but is enough of both to keep viewers guessing and debating. Hllers bafflement at how the court and the public see her relationship, and her naked hunger for Daniels trust and support, are both palpable drivers throughout the movie. Its easy to feel for her when Daniel pushes her away, or when the prosecutor comes at her with yet another malicious, contemptuous barb. But its also easy to feel small seeds of doubt uncoiling in your stomach when the court reveals places where she twisted the truth, or when listening to how other people in the movie see or interpret her.

Graner, for his part, offers a compelling, convincing performance as a self-possessed, independent child burdened with more information and responsibility than he wants. The nuance and mystery Triet wants to
dominate the movie wouldnt work without these two performances and their interplay. Her script is richly detailed and complicated and her direction is confident and compelling, but so much of Anatomy of a Fall builds on Hller and Graners interplay, and how viewers sympathies are meant to shift with each new revelation and all the new questions those revelations suggest.

But above all, a clear reason Anatomy of a Fall has provoked so many analytical essays and videos is because its such a satisfying topic. Like the top at the end of Inception, like the plane at the end of John Sayles Limbo, like the shoe and the other big questions of Jordan Peeles Nope, the question of Sandras guilt is meant as a kind of Rorschach blot. Viewers may see more of themselves reflected in the movies central questions than they like or they might just see it as a logic puzzle, where each new piece of evidence for a given take on the story might be the one that finally convinces everyone.

Triet and Harari dont tip their hands, and dont offer easy answers. This isnt a mystery story about an all-knowing sleuth who sees through everyone, its a story about how unknowable people really are, and how hard other people work to convince themselves otherwise. The film tells a compelling story particularly well: If it didnt, all that ambiguity might just be frustrating. But its also beautifully crafted as a conversation piece, and the kinds of viewers who enjoy debating movies keep finding it and keeping that conversation going.

For all the buzz around Anatomy of a Fall, and for all its lengthy theatrical run, it was still a small movie at the box office, earning a reported $23 million worldwide. But for an arthouse drama, thats still a notable take, above some of the years other most buzzed-about theatrical dramas. And its digital availability rentable on Amazon and Vudu, among the usual online retailers will guarantee that people will keep finding it and talking about it. Maybe itll win an Oscar, maybe it wont. But its already won its battle for recognition and attention in a crowded and competitive space. Maybe more than any other movie in 2023, it impressed the people who saw it, and kept them talking long after other movies of its vintage had peaked, passed, and been forgotten.

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Anatomy of a Fall rode a debatable mystery to the 2024 Oscars - Polygon