Friends, the week of March 21 to March 27, 2025, witnessed significant advancements and discussions in the realm of artificial intelligence (AI) – we’re beginning to sound like a broken record in these openers, but it’s true.
This past week – as we perused the news – we had to giggle a bit, though. Apologies (or our deepest condolences) to our lawyer friends, but it looks like you could be out of business within 10 years according to one report below. I would daresay lawyers are amongst the least well liked individuals in our society, but I have a brother who was a Justice Department (lol – I initially typed that “justice apartment”) attorney and several lawyer associates, so I don’t REALLY want to see this happen. But we ALL have to stay sharp so we can adjust our careers as necessary as AI continues to advance. In the meantime, we’ve got the latest news on the most important stories in AI for the week right here for you.
Key Highlights:
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North Korea’s AI Military Advancements: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervised tests of AI-powered suicide drones and unveiled an early-warning aircraft, emphasizing the role of AI in modernizing the country’s military capabilities.
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Google vs. Microsoft in AI Race: Google introduced its updated AI model, Gemini 2.5, while Microsoft announced new reasoning agents for its Microsoft 365 Copilot software, highlighting the intensifying competition in AI development.
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AI’s Potential Impact on Legal Profession: Industry leaders predict that advancements in artificial general intelligence (AGI) could render traditional lawyers obsolete by 2035, sparking debates on AI’s role in professional sectors.
Now let’s dig in……..
Top 10 AI Stories:
1. North Korea Tests AI-Powered Military Equipment
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervised tests of AI-powered suicide drones and unveiled an early-warning aircraft, marking significant advancements in the country’s military capabilities. Kim emphasized prioritizing the development of unmanned equipment and AI in modernizing the armed forces. The introduction of an early-warning aircraft could enhance North Korea’s air defense systems, despite challenges posed by the peninsula’s mountainous terrain. Analysts suggest that North Korea may be converting Russian Il-76 cargo planes for this purpose. However, the operational effectiveness of these new systems remains uncertain, with potential vulnerabilities to interception.
2. Google Introduces Gemini 2.5 AI Model
Google unveiled its updated AI model, Gemini 2.5, boasting superior performance compared to models from Microsoft-backed OpenAI. The model is available to developers and Gemini Advanced users, with plans for further cloud-computing integration. This move underscores Google’s commitment to maintaining its leadership in AI development amidst growing competition. for Microsoft 365 Copilot
Microsoft announced the introduction of two new reasoning agents, Researcher and Analyst, for its Microsoft 365 Copilot software. These agents aim to enhance the software’s capabilities, offering users advanced AI-powered tools for research and analysis. The agents will be accessible starting in April as part of a new early access program, with Copilot available as a $30 monthly add-on.
4. Predictions of AI Replacing Traditional Lawyers by 2035
Leaders of AI companies predict that advancements in artificial general intelligence (AGI) could render traditional lawyers obsolete by 2035. AGI, capable of matching human cognitive performance across tasks, may automate complex legal functions such as advising, negotiating, and dispute resolution. While some lawyers argue that AI cannot replace human judgment and creativity, clients may prioritize efficient outcomes over human attributes.
5. British Technology Enhances Military Capabilities
The UK Ministry of Defence is investing heavily in novel technologies to enhance its armed forces’ capabilities. Innovations include camouflage that confuses enemy AI systems and remotely piloted medical evacuation “carriages” to reduce personnel risk during battlefield evacuations. Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced a dedicated budget for defense innovation, aiming to position the UK as a “defence industrial superpower.”
6. Bank of England Governor Highlights AI’s Economic Potential
Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey emphasized the transformative potential of AI, likening it to the advent of electricity. Speaking at the University of Leicester, Bailey noted that AI could enhance productivity, lower costs, and spur continuous improvement, potentially boosting growth rates and per capita income. He also stressed the importance of investing in human skills to capitalize on AI advancements.
7. AI Innovations Showcased at Synapse Summit 2025
The Synapse Summit 2025 in Tampa Bay featured various AI-powered innovations addressing diverse challenges. Highlights included firearm detection systems designed to identify weapons via CCTV to prevent mass shootings and flood sensors developed in response to increased flooding risks. The expo reflected a focus on practical AI applications, from virtual fitness trainers to business automation tools.
8. AI’s Impact on Employment Discussed at Las Vegas Conference
At an AI conference in Las Vegas, discussions centered around the impact of new AI models on employment. A provocative sign reading “Stop Hiring Humans” highlighted concerns about AI’s potential to replace human jobs. Tech giants have been reluctant to address these concerns, reflecting the sensitive nature of AI’s role in the workforce.
9. Carnegie Mellon University Addresses AI’s Energy Demand
Carnegie Mellon University is addressing growing concerns around the energy demand of AI. The university’s commitment to sustainable development positions it uniquely to tackle issues related to AI’s energy consumption, climate resilience, and social good.
10. MIT Develops Energy-Efficient AI Image Generator
MIT researchers have developed an AI tool that generates high-quality images faster than state-of-the-art approaches. The image generator uses less energy and can run locally on devices like laptops or smartphones, representing a significant step towards more sustainable AI applications.
These developments highlight the rapid evolution of AI and its profound impact across various sectors, from military and legal fields to economic growth and environmental sustainability.
