Hi there!

This is your daily dose of ☕️ Techpresso, where you get the latest tech news of the day effortlessly.


Here's the latest tech news from the last 24 hours:

🥷 Google is about to take on AI Titans OpenAI and Microsoft
🤖 DeepMind discovers that AI large language models can optimize their own prompts
🚗 EV sets new record for longest distance driven on a single charge
💰 Caesars paid millions in ransom to cybercrime group prior to MGM hack
☁️ Oracle founder Larry Ellison makes first-ever trip to Microsoft headquarters

🥷 Google is about to take on AI Titans OpenAI and MicrosoftLINK

Google has previewed its new Gemini AI system, which is predicted to compete with and potentially surpass popular generative AI tools like ChatGPT.

A small number of companies have already been given access to Gemini, with a full official release on the horizon, according to reports.

Due to ChatGPT's current popularity, the stakes are high for Google's Gemini AI release, and it is suggested that it could stir significant competition and advancement in the AI sector.

🤖 DeepMind discovers that AI large language models can optimize their own promptsLINK

Researchers at DeepMind have developed Optimization by PROmpting (OPRO), a method using AI large language models (LLMs) as optimizers for deep learning models, defining optimization tasks through natural language.

OPRO shows potential for optimizing LLM prompts to maximize model accuracy, through an iterative method where LLMs generate, evaluate, and improve solution prompts based on previous solutions.

Tests on well-known mathematical problems showed promising results, demonstrating OPRO's potential, but also stressed the importance of prompt formatting, and pointed out that the process does not equate to human-like reasoning.

🚗 EV sets new record for longest distance driven on a single chargeLINK

Students at the Technical University of Munich built an electric car "muc022", which traveled almost 1,600 miles on a single charge, setting a new Guinness World Record.

The car took 99 hours to cover this distance, reaching a top speed of 26 mph, the car was designed to minimize weight and air resistance, and weighs only 375 pounds.

This feat shattered the previous record of 999 miles set by IT Asset Partners in 2017 and far exceeds the longest-range production car, the 2023 Lucid Air, which has a range of 516 miles.

💰 Caesars paid millions in ransom to cybercrime group prior to MGM hackLINK

Before the cyberattack on MGM's computer systems, Caesars casino had paid a $15 million ransom to a cybercrime group that disrupted its systems.

Despite the heavy payment, Caesars does not expect a significant impact on its bottom line as it will partially recover the ransom costs through its cyber insurance policies.

The same cybercrime group, known as UNC3944 or Roasted 0ktapus, is believed to be behind the attacks on both Caesars and MGM, emphasizing the rising threat of cybercrime in the gaming industry.

☁️ Oracle founder Larry Ellison makes first-ever trip to Microsoft headquartersLINK

Larry Ellison, co-founder of Oracle, made his first visit to Microsoft's headquarters to announce an expansion of the collaboration between Oracle and Microsoft.

Oracle will locate its Exadata hardware in Microsoft's data centers, allowing users to store data on Oracle's database software using Microsoft's Azure cloud service.

While the partnership signifies closer cooperation, Microsoft and Oracle will still compete in selling cloud-based infrastructure, with Oracle aiming to retain its customer base as they adopt other cloud services.

Other news you might like

"US dominates in generative AI funding, drawing 89% ($20B) of global VC investment, leaving Europe with only 5% ($1B), driven by OpenAI's rise in VCs' preference."LINK

North Korea-linked hackers are suspected of stealing $70 million in crypto assets from CoinEx, according to blockchain researchers.LINK

Sequoia and Andreessen's Instacart investment, made during 2021's tech boom, faces a 75% valuation drop with Instacart's upcoming IPO.LINK

Google is prolonging Chromebook lifespan by releasing automatic updates for a decade, a measure that could save schools $1.8 billion and limit technology waste. LINK

OpenAI CEO, Sam Altman, expresses shock at AI's success and admits to possible challenges ahead, despite its wide use and global excitement.LINK

"Fables" creator Bill Willingham releases his work into public domain due to disputes with DC Comics and lack of control over licensing rights.LINK

Want to get the latest news differently? Find us on:

See you tomorrow for a new dose of ☕️ Techpresso!