OpenAI and Google and are joining forces with PayPal

In this week's episode of Uncanny Valley, we delve into significant stories, including alarming complaints to the FTC about ChatGPT allegedly causing AI psychosis in users. This discussion is crucial as it highlights the potential mental health implications of AI technologies, prompting a broader conversation about their regulation and safety.

Microsoft has just rolled out the stable release of Azure Cosmos DB Python SDK 4.14.0, which brings exciting new features like AI-driven document reranking and optimized batch reads. This update, developed in collaboration with OpenAI, not only enhances the SDK's performance but also empowers developers to create smarter applications. It's a significant step forward in integrating AI capabilities into database management, making it easier for businesses to leverage advanced technologies.

OpenAI has launched its gpt-oss-safeguard models, allowing organizations to update AI safety protocols in real time without the need for retraining. This innovation is significant as it enhances transparency and adaptability in AI safety measures, making it easier for companies to respond to emerging challenges in AI technology.

Jeff Su has introduced a productivity system called CORE, which he has successfully taught to over 6,600 Googlers. This four-step approach—Capture, Organize, Review, and Engage—aims to simplify work processes and enhance efficiency. By adopting this method, individuals can improve their productivity without relying on memory tricks or excessive willpower. Su's experience at Google over the past nine years has shown that this routine can become second nature in just two weeks, making it a valuable tool for anyone looking to optimize their workflow.

Google is making headlines by partnering with NextEra Energy to revive the Duane Arnold Energy Center, Iowa's only nuclear power plant that has been inactive for five years. This initiative not only aims to bring the facility back online but also highlights the growing trend of tech companies investing in sustainable energy solutions. By revitalizing this nuclear plant, Google is taking a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions and promoting clean energy, which is crucial in the fight against climate change.

OpenAI is making headlines as it swiftly transitions from its nonprofit roots to preparing for a public offering. This move is significant as it reflects the growing confidence in AI technologies and the potential for substantial investment in the sector. By going public, OpenAI aims to attract more resources to further its mission, which could lead to groundbreaking advancements in artificial intelligence that benefit society.

Google has rolled out exciting upgrades to NotebookLM, one of its popular AI tools, allowing users to provide more detailed instructions. This enhancement is a game changer as it empowers users to tailor their interactions with the AI, making it more effective and user-friendly. With these improvements now available to everyone, it opens up new possibilities for productivity and creativity, making it an essential tool for both personal and professional use.

OpenAI has just launched Aardvark, an innovative autonomous cybersecurity research agent powered by GPT-5, currently in private beta. This cutting-edge tool is designed to identify and help patch vulnerabilities, marking a significant advancement in cybersecurity technology. As cyber threats continue to evolve, Aardvark's capabilities could play a crucial role in enhancing digital security for organizations, making it a noteworthy development in the tech landscape.

In a shocking incident, over 1,000 artifacts, including a rare historical daguerreotype, were stolen from the Oakland Museum. This theft not only robs the community of its cultural heritage but also raises concerns about the security of museums nationwide. The loss of such significant pieces highlights the ongoing challenges museums face in protecting their collections, making it crucial for institutions to enhance their security measures to prevent future incidents.

Meta is making headlines with its plan to raise up to $30 billion through bond offerings, signaling a significant increase in its capital expenditures for the upcoming year compared to 2025. This move is noteworthy as it reflects Meta's confidence in its growth strategy and its commitment to investing in future projects, which could have a positive impact on its market position and innovation efforts.

Apple is optimistic about its upcoming Q1 revenue, projecting a growth of 10% to 12% year-over-year, driven by strong iPhone sales expected to rise by double digits. This positive outlook comes despite a 4% decline in Q4 revenue from China, which fell to $14.5 billion, slightly below estimates. The company's ability to forecast growth amidst challenges highlights its resilience and the continued demand for its products, making it a key player in the tech industry.

The evolution of form management in Angular is making waves, especially with the introduction of signal-based forms. This update simplifies how developers handle custom validation errors by allowing them to use plain JavaScript objects instead of relying on the previous customError utility function. This change not only enhances the ergonomics of form handling but also significantly improves the overall developer experience, making it easier and more efficient to create robust forms.

Navan's initial public offering (IPO) faced a significant setback, plummeting 20% on its first day of trading. The company ended the day with a valuation of approximately $4.7 billion, which is nearly half of its previous private valuation of $9.2 billion. This decline highlights the challenges companies face in the current market environment, especially under the constraints of regulatory changes like the SEC shutdown workaround.

Conduent, a major player in business services that separated from Xerox in 2017, has confirmed a significant data breach affecting over 10.5 million individuals in 2024. This incident raises serious concerns about data security and the potential risks to personal information, highlighting the ongoing challenges companies face in protecting sensitive data. As breaches become more common, the implications for consumer trust and corporate responsibility are profound.