OpenAI, Meta, and Orange Collaborate to Train AI Models on African Languages

In recent developments, major technology companies are making significant strides in artificial intelligence (AI), while regulatory bodies intensify scrutiny over AI applications.¹

1. OpenAI, Meta, and Orange collaborate on AI models

OpenAI, Meta, and Orange SA have joined forces to develop AI models tailored for African languages, starting with Wolof and Pulaar.¹ This initiative addresses the scarcity of AI data from Africa and the Middle East, aiming to make technology more accessible and inclusive in these regions.¹ An Orange spokesperson noted,

“By focusing on local languages, we are bridging the digital divide and empowering communities.”

1. OpenAI, Meta, and Orange collaborate on AI models

Meanwhile, Amazon has invested $4 billion in AI company Anthropic, intensifying competition in the AI sector.² This substantial investment signals Amazon’s commitment to advancing AI technologies and competing with other tech giants in the field.² The move is attracting attention from U.S. antitrust regulators concerned about market concentration.²

1. Amazon strengthens AI strategy with Anthropic investment

Dell Technologies reported a significant increase in AI server sales, with its infrastructure solutions group experiencing a 34% revenue boost to $11.4 billion.³ The company shipped $2.9 billion worth of AI servers and has a backlog of $4.5 billion in the third quarter.³ Jeff Clarke, Dell’s vice chairman, stated,

“The demand for AI infrastructure is accelerating, and we’re positioned to meet the needs of our customers.”

1. Dell sees AI server boom gain more steam

On the regulatory front, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) settled with Evolv Technologies over claims regarding its AI security products.⁴ This settlement is part of the FTC’s Operation AI Comply initiative, reflecting increased oversight on how companies market and deploy AI technologies.⁴

1. FTC settles with security firm over AI claims

In New York, federal prosecutors are investigating the manufacturer of an AI-powered weapons scanner that was briefly deployed in the city’s subway system.⁵ The inquiry focuses on the effectiveness and deployment process of the technology, raising questions about the use of AI in public safety applications.⁵

1. Federal prosecutors seek records on AI weapons scanner

These developments highlight the rapid advancement of AI technology and the corresponding need for regulatory frameworks to ensure ethical and effective usage. As companies invest heavily in AI and expand its applications, oversight bodies are increasingly attentive to the implications for competition, security, and society at large.