Today's tech digest covers Reddit's new strategy to push mobile web users to its app, environmental concerns surrounding AI data centers' water consumption, and Google's reported discussions with SpaceX for orbital data centers. Additionally, CME Group plans to introduce a futures market for AI computing power.
Reddit Blocks Mobile Web Access, Pushing Users to App
MacRumors reports that Reddit is conducting a test to block some mobile web users, directing them to download the official Reddit app. According to Ars Technica, a Reddit spokesperson confirmed this initiative is a test involving a "small subset of frequent logged-out mobile users" with the stated aim of improving their experience. This move follows Reddit's previous monetization efforts, including implementing charges for API access in 2023 and a data-licensing agreement with OpenAI in 2024. The platform currently has 121 million daily active users.
AI Data Center Draws Millions of Gallons of Water Undetected
A data center campus located in Fayette County, Georgia, operated by Quality Technology Services (QTS), consumed approximately 29 million gallons of water from unauthorized connections. This issue was discovered after local homeowners reported experiencing low water pressure. Politico reports that QTS was subsequently billed $147,474 for the water but did not incur any fines from the county. A county official acknowledged QTS as their "largest customer," stating the need for a partnership approach. QTS claimed the water was utilized for temporary construction activities, such as dust control.
Google Eyes SpaceX for Orbiting Data Center Launches
Bloomberg Technology reports that Google is engaged in discussions with SpaceX regarding the potential launch of data centers into Earth's orbit. These reported talks suggest a new frontier for cloud infrastructure, aiming to leverage space for advanced AI processing and data storage capabilities. The initiative could significantly expand the geographical reach and operational efficiency of Google's data infrastructure.
CME Group to Launch Futures Market for AI Compute
Bloomberg Technology indicates that CME Group is planning to introduce a futures market specifically for AI computing power. This development aims to create a new financial product, allowing investors to trade on the future value of computational resources essential for artificial intelligence. Such a market would reflect the increasing commoditization and financialization of AI infrastructure resources.
China's AI Sovereignty Bid Blocked by Anthropic Access Denial
The New York Times reports that AI company Anthropic has reportedly denied access to its services for entities located in China. This move highlights growing geopolitical tensions within the artificial intelligence sector. Such restrictions present a challenge to China's objectives of achieving greater independence and sovereignty in its domestic AI development efforts.
OpenAI Faces New Wrongful Death Lawsuits Over AI Harm
According to The New York Times, OpenAI is currently facing new wrongful death lawsuits. These legal actions are testing novel strategies concerning AI accountability, aiming to determine the extent of a developer's responsibility for harm allegedly caused or facilitated by its advanced technology. The lawsuits raise important questions about liability in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence.