CELEBRITIES, DEATH & THE BRITISH GOVERNMENT…
Welcome to this week’s edition of AI Intelligence, where we spotlight the most viral AI developments from May 1 to May 7, 2025. From groundbreaking courtroom applications to emerging cybersecurity threats, AI continues to influence various facets of society.
And we have something for everyone this week. Katy Perry made it into the top AI viral stories – another deepfake of her at the Met Gala hit the social circuit. And an “interesting” adaptation is featured this week, whereby an AI-generated image of a young man who died fatally in a road rage incident appeared in a courtroom. Visions of Tupac Shakur come to mind – but no rapping here. Then there’s the British government getting into the action and, on top of it all, an AI Barbie. I mean, I couldn’t have written this if I tried. Truth is stranger than fiction – or at least it could make for a wonderfully wacky James Bond/Barbie/Katy Perry movie if we were to weave all these stories together into one plot line.
Meanwhile, here are the top 10 stories capturing the world’s attention:
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Top 10 AI Stories:
1. Christopher Pelkey
AI-Generated Video Delivers Posthumous Courtroom Message
In a groundbreaking courtroom moment in Arizona, Christopher Pelkey, a man fatally shot in a 2021 road rage incident, appeared via an AI-generated video to deliver a haunting yet forgiving message to his killer. The AI recreation was developed by Pelkey’s family and featured him expressing forgiveness and regret over the tragic encounter.
New York Post
2. Katy Perry
AI Deepfake Images Spark Met Gala Confusion
For the second consecutive year, AI-generated images mistakenly showing Katy Perry at the Met Gala went viral, misleading fans into believing she attended the event. Perry clarified via Instagram that she was actually on her Lifetimes Tour, performing in Houston, and spending time with her mother, who had previously fallen for similar AI-generated photos in 2024.
3. Xanthorox
AI Platform Markets Itself as Cybercrime Tool
A new AI platform called Xanthorox markets itself as a tool for cybercrime, raising concerns about the ease with which such systems can be built and sold. The platform’s existence underscores the potential for AI technologies to be misused for illicit purposes.
4. Benchling & Moderna
Collaboration to Accelerate AI-Driven Research
Benchling and Moderna announced an expanded collaboration to bring hundreds of Moderna’s scientists onto a unified, AI-ready research and development digital platform. This initiative aims to accelerate discovery and innovation in the biotech industry.
BioSpace
5. Google
Launches AI Mode in Search Platform
Google is launching a new AI Mode feature in its Search platform, enabling users to experience a more conversational, AI-driven search experience. This functionality provides AI-generated answers sourced from Google’s search index, marking a significant step in integrating advanced AI into mainstream search functions.
6. Netflix
Debuts Generative AI-Powered Search Tool
Netflix has introduced a generative AI-powered search tool, enhancing user experience by providing more intuitive and personalized content recommendations. This development showcases the streaming service’s commitment to leveraging AI for improved user engagement.
7. British Government
Warns of Increased Cyberattacks Due to AI Adoption
As AI technology becomes more widespread, the United Kingdom is expected to face an increase in both the frequency and severity of cyberattacks, according to Cabinet Office Minister Pat McFadden. The government plans to introduce a new cybersecurity strategy and legislate new powers under the upcoming Cyber Security and Resilience Bill.
8. Spotify – CEO Daniel Ek Outlines AI Plans to Expand Podcasting
Spotify CEO Daniel Ek unveiled plans to leverage AI for expanding the platform’s podcasting reach. The initiative aims to enhance content discovery and personalization for users.
9. Google DeepMind – Advances in AI Video and Music Generation
Google DeepMind announced the availability of its Veo 2 video generation model and Lyria music generation model. These tools enable users to create high-quality videos and music using AI, showcasing advancements in creative AI applications.
10. Elon Musk’s DOGE Initiative – College Student Hired to Revolutionize Agency Rules Using AI
Under Elon Musk’s DOGE initiative, a college student has been appointed to revamp federal regulations using AI. The move reflects ongoing efforts to integrate AI into governmental processes, though it raises questions about experience and oversight.
Stay tuned for next week’s roundup of the most impactful AI stories shaping our world.
Content provided by DWN’s team with the assistance of ChatGPT
