YouTube secretly using AI
YouTube has confirmed it has been secretly using AI to enhance Shorts videos without informing creators. The subtle changes include smoother skin or a different hair texture. While the tweaks are often hard to spot without side-by-side comparisons, many YouTubers say the edits leave their content feeling artificial and distracting. Complaints first surfaced in June as creators shared screenshots of strange glitches. YouTube says the changes were part of limited testing. The move raises ethical concerns over user consent, transparency, and how much of our digital reality is now pre-processed by AI.
Free ChatGPT Plus for teachers
OpenAI will distribute five lakh free ChatGPT Plus accounts in India, marking one of its largest education initiatives. Over the next six months, the project will provide teachers and students with access to advanced AI tools. The ministry of education will coordinate distribution for government schools, AICTE will assist technical institutes, and ARISE schools will provide access to K-12 educators. The initiative aims to boost digital skills, assist research, and explore AI-driven tutoring. By offering premium access, OpenAI wants to strengthen classroom learning, encourage innovation, and test how AI tutors can complement traditional teaching.
Netflix embraces gen AI with rules
Netflix has become the first major Hollywood studio to formally embrace generative AI, issuing guidelines for its use in production. The company described AI tools as ‘creative aids’ that can speed up workflows but stressed responsible practices. Its rules forbid recreating copyrighted material, replicating talent likeness without consent, or allowing AI tools to store production data. Generated outputs should remain temporary unless legally approved. Netflix also requires partners to disclose any planned AI use. By setting these boundaries, the streaming giant is acknowledging AI’s creative use while balancing risks around copyright and ethical concerns in rapidly evolving entertainment industries.
Will Smith gets AI crowd for tour video
In a recent tour video, Will Smith is facing backlash after fans accused him of using AI-generated audience shots. The clip, posted on his official YouTube channel, appeared to feature cheering crowds, but some sharp viewers noticed strange errors, including blurred faces and distorted hands with six fingers. Some praised the attempt at innovation, but others called it ’embarrassing’ and unnecessary. The controversy highlights growing scepticism around AI-manipulated visuals, especially when used without transparency.
Smart temple project
In Paradsinga near Nagpur, a pilot project will transform Shri Sati Anasuya Mata temple into a ‘smart temple’ using AI. The system will predict crowd numbers, monitor safety, and assist management during peak festivals. By analysing patterns in footfall, AI could help allocate resources more efficiently, reducing overcrowding risks. It may also improve security by monitoring unusual activities. The project reflects a growing trend of blending technology with tradition, aiming to modernise religious spaces while preserving their spiritual essence.
Fevikwik’s AI pack
Fevikwik has launched a playful new campaign called ‘Fevikwik AI Pack’, powered by its custom engine KwikGPT. Instead of focusing on repairs, the campaign embraces AI-generated mashups of random objects to spark creativity. Examples include an umbrella with headphones (Monsoon Beats), a waist belt with a watch (Time Waist), and a chopping board with a vanity mirror (Cute Chops). The quirky pairings showcase Fevikwik as more than just an adhesive brand, it’s repositioning as a symbol of imagination and spontaneity. Aimed at younger audiences, the campaign blends humour, creativity, and AI experimentation, encouraging people to see fixes as opportunities for fun.
AI to protect MP’s wildlife
Madhya Pradesh is rolling out an AI-powered system to protect wildlife near railway lines. Developed by IIT-Indore with the State Forest Research Institute, the edge-computing platform uses cameras to detect animal movements and send instant alerts to train drivers. Powered by batteries or solar panels, the system can identify species like tigers and leopards, predict their likely paths, and prevent collisions. By combining conservation with technology, the project addresses the growing conflict between infrastructure expansion and wildlife safety.
Halal chatbot
Saudi startup Humain has launched ‘Humain Chat’, described as the world’s first ‘halal AI’ chatbot. Designed to align with Islamic culture, values, and sensitivities, the tool is fluent in Arabic and supports bilingual conversations. Unlike global chatbots trained primarily on Western data, Humain Chat focuses on local contexts, offering culturally appropriate responses. Its developers aim to make AI adoption more accessible and trustworthy across the middle east. The move signals Saudi Arabia’s ambition to shape AI innovation within its own cultural framework, providing an alternative to global models while promoting digital growth in line with regional identity and traditions.
