END OF YEAR: Technology Update

Artificial Intelligence, also called AI, has grown very quickly this year. AI tools can help people schedule meetings, answer emails, and even detect diseases early. AI can also create or edit pictures, music, and writing. It is being used in restaurants, hospitals, classrooms, and even by service robots. AI is becoming a normal part of everyday life. Because AI is growing so fast, many governments are worried about safety. They want to make rules to guide how AI should be used. The European Union, the United States, China, Brazil, and Canada all strengthened their regulations this year. Some people in the European Union say that making strong rules is even more important than creating new AI tools. But creating rules while staying competitive is hard, and some companies want lawmakers to take more time before adding new restrictions. One major concern is protecting personal information. This year, there were many cyberattacks on banks, hospitals, airports, and airlines. Some attacks used ransomware and put lives in danger by shutting down hospital systems or travel networks. Hackers also stole money by pretending to be a boss or by using fake websites powered by AI. These crimes were reported in India, the United States, Europe, and many other places. Some countries are also trying to protect teenagers from harmful online content. They are limiting how much teens can use social media and AI tools. Australia and several countries in the European Union have passed new laws to protect young people, especially because of concerns about suicide and mental health. Some technology companies, including Meta, are adding more parental controls. AI is also creating challenges for musicians and authors. Their work can be copied or imitated by AI tools, and they worry that AI might replace human creativity. Writers fear that AI may use or replace their books. Many workers in different industries are also afraid that AI could take their jobs. Governments and employers are trying to find ways to respond to these concerns. There is also a growing worry about energy use. AI needs large data centers that use huge amounts of electricity. Some companies may be forced to invest in renewable energy, because power grids are becoming stressed. Many countries are now thinking about how to balance energy consumption with the infrastructure needed for AI growth.