Welcome back to your daily dossier talking AI, robotics, crypto and the future of tech. 👾

In today’s edition we are tackling the following:

🌐 OpenAI debuts 1-800-ChatGPT, integrating WhatsApp for broader AI accessibility.
🎥 YouTube cracks down on AI-generated creator imitations.
🐣 Magnetic micro-robot clears fallopian tube blockages, offering fertility solutions.
💎 Gucci and Hublot explore crypto payments as bitcoin surges past $100k.
🐜 South Korean researchers unveil ant-inspired microrobots for precision tasks.

AI

• Charlie Engman explores AI and the human body in Cursed

  • Charlie Engman blends AI and photography to create surreal interpretations of the human body.

  • The photobook challenges conventional beauty standards, using AI distortions to examine identity and form.

  • Engman reimagines photography's role, highlighting AI's potential to push artistic boundaries.

• OpenAI launches 1-800-ChatGPT with WhatsApp support

  • OpenAI now offers ChatGPT access via a toll-free number and WhatsApp integration.

  • Part of its ‘Shipmas’ campaign, the feature aims to make AI more accessible across various communication platforms.

  • This move enhances usability by connecting users to AI through calls and texts, broadening its reach.

• YouTube cracks down on AI-generated creator likeness

  • New detection tools will flag and remove AI-generated imitations of creators uploaded without permission.

  • The platform is responding to growing misuse of AI for unauthorized reproductions, safeguarding creator rights.

  • The initiative reflects YouTube's commitment to protecting intellectual property in an evolving digital landscape.

ROBOTICS

• Ant-like robot swarms conquer obstacles

  • Researchers in South Korea developed ant-inspired microrobots capable of navigating obstacles collaboratively.

  • The bots mimic swarm intelligence to move objects efficiently in complex environments.

  • Potential applications include minimally invasive surgeries and micro-scale precision tasks.

• Micro-robot navigates fallopian tubes to combat infertility

  • A magnetic micro-robot clears blockages in fallopian tubes to assist conception.

  • The device operates with high precision, offering non-invasive infertility treatments.

  • Researchers highlight its potential to revolutionize reproductive healthcare.

• Cyborg cockroach army is here

  • Cockroaches fitted with micro-backpacks can navigate disaster zones for search and rescue.

  • The system uses electrical signals to control movement across challenging terrains.

  • This innovation aims to deliver supplies and gather data in inaccessible areas.

CRYPTO

• Bitcoin soars as luxury brands consider accepting crypto payments

  • Bitcoin reaches $100,000, prompting brands like Gucci and Hublot to explore crypto payments.

  • The move aims to attract affluent, tech-savvy buyers and align with digital innovation trends.

  • Experts view this as a sign of cryptocurrencies entering mainstream commerce.

• Europol seizes $26 million in crypto from drug traffickers

  • Europol arrests nine suspects in a crypto-enabled drug trafficking operation.

  • Authorities highlight cryptocurrency’s role in financing and laundering illicit activities.

  • Seizures fuel debates over the need for stricter oversight and blockchain transparency.

• Crypto.com CEO courts favor with Trump at Mar-a-Lago

  • Kris Marszalek meets Trump alongside other industry leaders to discuss crypto policy.

  • Talks focused on easing regulations and encouraging crypto innovation under new leadership.

  • Crypto companies aim to shape a friendlier regulatory environment in the U.S.

CONTENT

• The framework for building AI startups from a product design genius

  • Greg Isenberg and Mike Hudack dive into what makes great AI startups work, focusing on simplicity, user feedback, and solving real pain points.

  • They discuss financial compliance startups Greenlite and Gradient Labs in customer service as examples of AI done right.

  • Hudack shares practical advice on pricing, choosing between B2B and B2C, and competing while staying true to your vision.

• AI: The Ultimate Healthcare Hire - Solving the Clinical Staffing Shortage

  • Julie Yoo presents ‘Super Staffing,’ where AI augments healthcare workers to address critical shortages.

  • The episode looks at how tools like co-pilots and asynchronous care models reduce burnout and improve patient care.

  • It’s about balancing the promise of AI with challenges like adoption and regulation in healthcare.

• How David Lieb turned a failing startup into Google Photos

  • YC partner David Lieb shares how persistence turned Bump, a struggling app, into a stepping stone for Google Photos.

  • His story is a masterclass in pivoting and learning from failures, while staying motivated through tough times.

  • He talks about finding the right ideas, avoiding common mistakes, and keeping a big-picture perspective.

AND MORE…

• Ancient amulet inscription reshapes early Christianity understanding

  • Archaeologists discover a 4th-century Christian amulet in Italy, featuring early Trinitarian beliefs.

  • The inscription sheds light on religious practices and theological debates of the time.

  • Researchers emphasize its rarity and significance in Christian archaeological records.

• NASA astronauts Butch and Suni's homecoming delayed again

  • Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams face an extended stay on the ISS until March or April due to delays.

  • NASA assures there is no risk to the astronauts, as the station is well-stocked with food, water, and other necessities.

  • Despite disappointment at missing Christmas on Earth, experts note the astronauts’ dedication to their mission and love for working in space.

• Perplexity acquires Carbon to connect AI search to work files

  • Perplexity’s acquisition of Carbon enhances its AI search tool with enterprise-level integrations.

  • The platform will allow users to query work files directly for increased productivity.

  • Experts see this as a move to compete with Microsoft’s AI-driven productivity solutions.