Microsoft warns that Copilot Actions in Windows, now in beta and off by default, can infect devices and pilfer data, prompting concern from security researchers (Dan Goodin/Ars Technica)

Bandcamp has announced a ban on music that is generated wholly or in substantial part by artificial intelligence, emphasizing its commitment to ensuring that fans can trust the authenticity of the music available on its platform. This decision reflects a growing concern over the impact of AI on the creative industries.

Microsoft is reportedly spending nearly $500 million annually on Anthropic's AI models, positioning itself as one of Anthropic's largest customers despite its existing partnership with OpenAI. This strategic investment is likely aimed at enhancing Microsoft's negotiating power with OpenAI in the competitive AI landscape.

Microsoft has successfully shut down a scam website that facilitated the theft of millions by fraudsters leveraging pirated software. This action underscores the company's commitment to combating cybercrime and protecting its users from malicious activities.

Google has introduced a new feature for its AI model, Gemini, allowing it to scan users' photos, emails, and other data to provide more accurate responses. This feature is currently available only to paid users and is disabled by default.

A recent Microsoft study reveals that 64% of residents in the UAE are now utilizing generative AI, indicating a significant increase in AI adoption among the population. This trend reflects the growing integration of AI technologies into daily life and various sectors.

A recent leak regarding Windows 11 indicates that Microsoft is planning to deepen the integration of its AI feature, Copilot, within File Explorer, as evidenced by a hidden button discovered in Insider builds. This development suggests a shift towards enhancing user interaction with the operating system's file management system.

A new formulation for zeroth-order optimization of adversarial EXEmples in malware detection has been introduced, addressing the vulnerability of machine learning malware detectors to carefully-crafted Windows programs designed to evade detection. This approach allows for functionality-preserving manipulations, enabling the use of efficient gradient-free optimization algorithms with minimal hyper-parameter tuning.

Heroic Games Launcher has successfully integrated libraries from Epic, GOG, and Amazon into a single, open-source client, eliminating the need for official launchers. This platform supports Proton and Wine, making it particularly popular among Linux and Steam Deck users, while also providing a streamlined experience for Windows and macOS users.