Best of TechCrunch — December 2024

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   TechCrunch·1y

   Will Smith eating spaghetti and other weird AI benchmarks that took off in 2024

   AI benchmarks in 2024 have taken an unusual turn with trends like generating videos of Will Smith eating spaghetti becoming popular tests for new AI video generators. Although there are more academic standards for evaluating AI performance, they often don't resonate with the general public. Unofficial benchmarks, while entertaining and easy to understand, are not empirically valid but capture attention, prompting speculation about the next viral AI benchmarks.

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   TechCrunch·1y

   The Browser Company teases Dia, its new AI browser

   The Browser Company, known for Arc Browser, announced its new AI-focused browser, Dia, set to launch in early 2025. The browser aims to integrate AI tools directly into the browsing experience, allowing users to perform tasks through natural language commands and automated actions. Demos showcased the AI assisting with writing, managing emails, and even adding items to an Amazon cart. The goal is to create a seamless AI-driven browsing environment while maintaining the usability for the masses.

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   TechCrunch·1y

   It sure looks like OpenAI trained Sora on game content — and legal experts say that could be a problem

   OpenAI's video-generating AI, Sora, might be trained on Twitch streams and game walkthroughs, raising potential legal issues. Sora can produce videos mimicking popular games like Super Mario Bros. and Call of Duty. Legal experts warn that training on copyrighted game footage could lead to lawsuits, and OpenAI's vague data sourcing adds to the controversy. AI companies face increasing legal challenges as they claim fair use while creators seek protection for their works.

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