MIT Technology Review is reporting that treating artificial intelligence tools as "coworkers" can lead to worse human performance. It said research by Boston University professor Emma Wiles found managers caught 18% fewer errors when work was attributed to an "AI employee" compared to a chatbot. The outlet noted that companies like Microsoft, OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google are releasing tools for managing AI agent teams, often advertised as digital colleagues.
The publication also highlighted developments in delivering internet from the air. It said New Mexico-based company Sceye plans to test a 200-foot-long solar-powered craft, a high-altitude platform station, as soon as August. This craft will operate 18 kilometers above the ocean's surface to supplement a 5G network, beaming data directly to devices in the southwestern U.S. and Japan.
Separately, Politico is reporting that the U.S. House has passed new youth online safety legislation, setting baseline federal standards. Reuters added that states could adopt more aggressive protections, though Axios noted critics argue it lets tech companies avoid accountability. NBC reported that tech groups warn the bill threatens privacy and free expression, with The Hill indicating the Senate is expected to push for tougher rules.
Bloomberg is reporting that Ford is rehiring human engineers after AI failed to match quality checks, citing the AI's lack of training and expertise. BBC said the new hires will train younger staff and reprogram AI tools, while Forbes noted many firms that replaced workers with AI are now rehiring humans. The Information is reporting that Senator Mark Warner is set to introduce a bill to regulate AI agents, establishing rules for agent permissions and verification. NBC News found voters of both parties want tighter AI regulation, but MIT Technology Review previously noted politicians are divided on the rules.
The Verge is reporting that Rocket Lab is acquiring Iridium for $8 billion to integrate the satellite network with its launch services, aiming to compete with SpaceX, according to The Wall Street Journal. Reuters reported that hackers exposed secrets about Apple's upcoming iPhone 18, stolen from supplier Tata Electronics, which TechCrunch said also exposed Tesla secrets. The Wall Street Journal is also reporting that chatbots are replacing therapists despite lacking scientific evidence, raising questions about their safety and therapeutic quality. The Economist noted that newborn DNA sequencing is moving closer to routine healthcare, despite privacy and ethical concerns.
Full Article: The Download: AI “coworkers” and stratospheric internet