OpenAI’s Whisper invents parts of transcriptions — a lot

Imagine going to the doctor, telling them exactly how you're feeling and then a transcription later adds false information and alters your story. That could be the case in medical centers that use Whisper, OpenAI's transcription tool. Over a dozen developers, software engineers and academic researchers have found evidence that Whisper creates hallucinations — invented text — that includes made up medications, racial commentary and violent remarks, reporting from the Associated Press shows. Yet, in the last month, open-source AI platform HuggingFace saw 4.2 million downloads of Whisper's latest version. The tool is also built into Oracle and Microsoft's cloud computing platforms, along with some versions of ChatGPT.

The harmful evidence is quite extensive, with experts finding significant faults with Whisper across the board. Take a University of Michigan researcher who found invented text in eight out of ten audio transcriptions of public meetings. In another study, computer scientists found 187 hallucinations while analyzing over 13,000 audio recordings. The trend continues: A machine learning engineer found them in about half of 100 hours-plus worth of transcriptions, while a developer spotted hallucinations in almost all of the 26,000 transcriptions he had Whisper create.  

The potential danger becomes even clearer when looking at specific examples of these hallucinations. Two professors, Allison Koenecke and Mona Sloane of Cornell University and the University of Virginia, respectively, looked at clips from a research repository called TalkBank. The pair found that nearly 40 percent of the hallucinations had the potential to be misinterpreted or misrepresented. In one case, Whisper invented that three people discussed were Black. In another, Whisper changed "He, the boy, was going to, I’m not sure exactly, take the umbrella." to "He took a big piece of a cross, a teeny, small piece ... I’m sure he didn’t have a terror knife so he killed a number of people."

Whisper's hallucinations also have risky medical implications. A company called Nabla utilizes Whisper for its medical transcription tool, used by over 30,000 clinicians and 40 health systems — so far transcribing an estimated seven million visits. Though the company is aware of the issue and claims to be addressing it, there is currently no way to check the validity of the transcripts. The tool erases all audio for "data safety reasons," according to Nabla’s chief technology officer Martin Raison. The company also claims that providers must quickly edit and approve the transcriptions (with all the extra time doctors have?), but that this system may change. Meanwhile, no one else can confirm the transcriptions are accurate because of privacy laws. 

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/openais-whisper-invents-parts-of-transcriptions--a-lot-120039028.html?src=rss

OpenAI’s Whisper invents parts of transcriptions — a lot

Imagine going to the doctor, telling them exactly how you're feeling and then a transcription later adds false information and alters your story. That could be the case in medical centers that use Whisper, OpenAI's transcription tool. Over a dozen developers, software engineers and academic researchers have found evidence that Whisper creates hallucinations — invented text — that includes made up medications, racial commentary and violent remarks, ABC News reports. Yet, in the last month, open-source AI platform HuggingFace saw 4.2 million downloads of Whisper's latest version. The tool is also built into Oracle and Microsoft's cloud computing platforms, along with some versions of ChatGPT.

The harmful evidence is quite extensive, with experts finding significant faults with Whisper across the board. Take a University of Michigan researcher who found invented text in eight out of ten audio transcriptions of public meetings. In another study, computer scientists found 187 hallucinations while analyzing over 13,000 audio recordings. The trend continues: A machine learning engineer found them in about half of 100 hours-plus worth of transcriptions, while a developer spotted hallucinations in almost all of the 26,000 transcriptions he had Whisper create.  

The potential danger becomes even clearer when looking at specific examples of these hallucinations. Two professors, Allison Koenecke and Mona Sloane of Cornell University and the University of Virginia, respectively, looked at clips from a research repository called TalkBank. The pair found that nearly 40 percent of the hallucinations had the potential to be misinterpreted or misrepresented. In one case, Whisper invented that three people discussed were Black. In another, Whisper changed "He, the boy, was going to, I’m not sure exactly, take the umbrella." to "He took a big piece of a cross, a teeny, small piece ... I’m sure he didn’t have a terror knife so he killed a number of people."

Whisper's hallucinations also have risky medical implications. A company called Nabla utilizes Whisper for its medical transcription tool, used by over 30,000 clinicians and 40 health systems — so far transcribing an estimated seven million visits. Though the company is aware of the issue and claims to be addressing it, there is currently no way to check the validity of the transcripts. The tool erases all audio for "data safety reasons," according to Nabla’s chief technology officer Martin Raison. The company also claims that providers must quickly edit and approve the transcriptions (with all the extra time doctors have?), but that this system may change. Meanwhile, no one else can confirm the transcriptions are accurate because of privacy laws. 

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/openais-whisper-invents-parts-of-transcriptions--a-lot-120039028.html?src=rss

Creality K2 Plus – 3D Printer Review

multicolor 3D printing capabilities

The Creality K2 Plus is a feature-rich 3D printer with a large build volume, high print quality, and advanced capabilities, making it a strong contender in the 3D printing market. Whether you’re a hobbyist exploring the endless possibilities of 3D printing or a professional seeking a reliable tool for intricate prototyping, the K2 Plus offers […]

The post Creality K2 Plus – 3D Printer Review appeared first on Geeky Gadgets.

Sleep Smarter: 10 Game-Changing Tech Innovations for Better Rest

As awareness grows regarding the importance of quality sleep for health and productivity, many face challenges with poor sleep habits and reliance on short-term remedies like pills, which can have adverse effects. Additionally, increasing stress levels and evolving lifestyles have led to disrupted sleep patterns due to excessive use of mobile phones and other electronic devices.

Note that LED screens from devices like computers, laptops, TVs, smartphones, and tablets emit high levels of blue light, which can disrupt the release of melatonin in the evening, leading to delayed or disrupted sleep cycles. This reliance on technology has led to the emergence of a thriving industry focused on providing solutions for better sleep.

Designer: Heyok Shin

1. Sleep Tracking Devices

Wearable fitness trackers and smartwatches with sleep-tracking features monitor sleep duration, quality, and stages. Analyzing this data over time helps individuals understand and improve their sleep habits.

The ZOS smartwatch prioritizes optimal sleep quality alongside overall health monitoring. Unlike typical smartwatches, it’s designed for comfort during sleep with features like smart alarms and ASMR audio recordings to induce sleep. Its elongated screen and magnetic straps ensure uninterrupted wear. Also, it integrates with the CLOSSY air purifier and plant care cabinet, making it a comprehensive solution for health-conscious users.

Designer: Mark Stanisic

This revolutionary bedside device is designed to enhance one’s nightly routines and promote restful sleep. With smart technology, this device tailors your bedtime environment for optimal rest by adjusting lighting, temperature, and ambient sound.

2. Neck Pillows

A neck pillow promotes good sleep as it offers support to the neck and head, promoting proper alignment of the spine, which reduces discomfort and enhances relaxation. This can lead to deeper and more restful sleep, leaving one feeling refreshed and revitalized upon waking.

Designer: Blisstil

Sleepmuffs offer comfort and quiet for perfect sleep as these oversized earmuffs double as neck support, providing high-quality foam for comfort and exceptional sound blocking. Designed with two types of foam and a hard acoustic shell, they ensure a proper seal and minimize sound disruption. Their breathable fabric construction allows for extended wear without discomfort. Plus, they’re travel-friendly with a convenient storage case included.

3. Smart Lighting

Smart lighting systems, like smart bulbs or light strips, regulate the sleep-wake cycle by mimicking natural light. They dim in the evening to promote relaxation and melatonin production, and gradually brighten in the morning to simulate a sunrise, helping people wake up naturally.

Designer: Alessandro Pennese

EPY lamp offers a holistic approach to sleep, using light and sound to induce serene slumber and refreshing awakenings. Its minimalist design and intuitive controls foster calm, with warm light mimicking sunset to trigger melatonin production. White noise cancels ambient distractions, promoting restorative rest without the need for supplements or complex features.

Designer: Locus Hsu for Husky Design

This lamp is designed to establish healthy sleep patterns, it creates a soothing ambiance mimicking natural light cycles. Adjustable light levels cater to pre-bedtime activities, while gradual dimming aids in regulating your circadian rhythm. Versatile and minimalist, it complements any space as both a desk lamp and a sleep aid and promotes good sleep.

4. Smart Beds and Mattresses

Smart mattresses and advanced sleep systems feature adjustable firmness, temperature regulation, snore detection, and sleep tracking. Some also provide personalized sleep coaching and targeted pressure relief, enhancing comfort and support.

Designer: KAI XIA

The Sleep Experience Center by designer KAI XIA is a revolutionary pod designed for ultimate relaxation during layovers. Equipped with a state-of-the-art smart mattress, entertainment system, and storage space, including aromatherapeutic lamps and a built-in air filtration system, to enhance the overall experience, this sleek and modern pod offers travelers a tranquil retreat in busy environments like airports. With automated access and customizable features, it’s the perfect solution for weary travelers seeking comfort and rejuvenation on the go.

5. Smart Home

Integrating sleep technology with smart home devices creates a sleep-friendly environment. Smart thermostats adjust room temperature, and smart blinds block external light, all automatically, ensuring optimal sleep conditions without manual effort.

Designer: Recipe Design

Privacy concerns abound with smart speakers and displays, but Soove offers a refreshing perspective. Its friendly design, complete with expressive eyes, sets it apart from typical smart devices. Soove uses facial tracking to recognize emotions and adjust the environment accordingly, prioritizing well-being over mere functionality. Recipe Design aims to redefine face-tracking technology as a positive tool for enhancing the smart home experience and improving sleep behaviors.

6. Sleep Enhancing Bed Accessory

Designer: Mellowing Factory

Wethm is an innovative bed accessory for better sleep. Harnessing gentle vibrations, it mimics the calming rhythm of a train journey to induce deep sleep. With cardiovascular synchronization, Wethm gradually slows your heart rate for restful sleep and gently wakes you with subtle buzzing. Easy to use, just place it under your sheets and set the alarm via the app. With AI-powered tracking, Wethm provides personalized insights into your sleep patterns.

7. Zen Alarm Clock

Designer: Mudita

The Mudita Bell calming alarm clock is your solution to waking up refreshed. Designed to align with the body’s natural rhythms, it features gentle acoustic sounds and an E-Ink screen to minimize blue light exposure. With its minimalist design and meditation timer, it promotes restful sleep and peaceful mornings.

8. Smart Sleep Mask

A smart sleep mask contributes to improving sleep quality through its array of features and functionalities. These may include sensors, Bluetooth connectivity, and some even offer built-in speakers for playing relaxing sounds. By blending comfort with innovative technology, these masks aim to enhance sleep quality effectively.

Designers: Adrian Wong and W.H.

The Aura Smart Sleep Mask offers a natural solution for combating sleep disorders, utilizing sound and light therapy for deep sleep and gentle awakening. It creates a personalized sleep sanctuary with total blackout and comfortable memory foam. Simply pair it with the mobile app, select your preferred Dreamscape, and enjoy a peaceful sleep experience.

9. Ear Plugs

Ear plugs are truly effective in enhancing our sleep quality by substantially reducing disruptive noises from our surroundings.

Designer: Anestis Pneumaticatos

Earplugs or earbuds can block noise, but they often fall out and cause irritation. Soundbuds, a new brand, offers a solution. Unlike traditional options, Soundbuds spread through the ear canal area for a comfortable fit. Made from soft silicone rubber, they mold to your ears without needing custom solutions. Each pack includes 4 pairs in yellow, violet, green, and blue. With 27dB passive noise isolation, they dampen background noise while allowing you to hear important sounds. This colorful and practical option soothes anxiety from various noises, making sleep easier.

10. Sleeping Pods

Nap pods vary from egg-shaped chairs with head covers to small, soundproofed rooms with beds. Typically found in quiet spots like airport lounges or libraries, these pods provide a peaceful sanctuary away from busy areas.

Designers: Martin Tsankov & Milen Kisov

The Power Nap Chair is a revolutionary furniture piece designed by Martin Tsankov to combat exhaustion. Inspired by the productivity-boosting benefits of power naps, this sleek chair offers a cozy cocoon-like design with a foldable hood for privacy. Crafted sustainably with a metal frame, birch plywood body, and woolen fabric, it challenges workplace rest stigmas.

While technology aids sleep, natural methods are key. One can stick to a consistent sleep schedule by eating balanced meals, creating a calming sleep environment, limiting daytime naps, exercising regularly, and managing stress effectively.

The post Sleep Smarter: 10 Game-Changing Tech Innovations for Better Rest first appeared on Yanko Design.

12 Ways ChatGPT Canvas Can Transform Your Content Creation

12 Essential Use Cases for ChatGPT Canvas

In today’s fast-paced digital world, the pressure to produce high-quality content quickly can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re a seasoned writer, a content creator, or a professional juggling multiple projects, balancing efficiency with creativity often feels challenging. OpenAI’s new ChatGPT Canvas offers a fantastic option to transform the way we approach writing and content creation. This […]

The post 12 Ways ChatGPT Canvas Can Transform Your Content Creation appeared first on Geeky Gadgets.

The Morning After: Claim your Cash App settlement money

If you’ve used Cash App in the last six years, you might be entitled to compensation as part of a class-action settlement. The company set up a $15 million fund after breaches enabled a trove of user personal data to leak. You can file a claim through a dedicated settlement website, and depending on what you can prove, you could receive up to $2,500. If there’s a downside beyond having your private financial data leaked, it’s that you’ve only got until November 19 to file.

— Dan Cooper

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News in Brief

Generic image of the Google Homescreen
Google

Google is reportedly developing an AI agent for Chrome to act as a live assistant for your daily browsing. Codenamed Jarvis, because of course it is, it will help you with common tasks, like research, shopping and booking flights. Perhaps you could ask it to look at every price comparison website, collate the results and select the cheapest option. Maybe, in future, it could even buy, use and enjoy the thing you’re looking to purchase while you sit at your computer.

Continue Reading.

If you’ve ever noticed one of your Instagram videos looks worse now than it did before, there’s a reason. Instagram head Adam Mosseri revealed the platform intentionally downgrades video quality for clips not pulling eyeballs. Which feels like Instagram’s putting its finger on the scale for folks who’ve already cracked the secret of virality against those still working it out.

Continue Reading.

Image of the iMac G4
Apple

As elegant as Apple’s computers are, the last one to transcend that and become beautiful was the iMac G4. Now, the rumor mill is hinting the company’s long-rumored smart home display may wind up using the same design. On one hand, great, who doesn’t want to see what Apple can do with that design? On the other, Apple’s lackluster commitment to the smart home means it’ll probably be a pointless waste of money anyway.

Continue Reading.

Image of a Masimo Watch
Masimo

The endless battle between Apple and Masimo has seen the bigger company win its latest courtroom skirmish. Apple successfully argued some of Masimo’s watches infringed on Apple’s design patents but won just $250 (not a typo) in damages. Sadly, Apple didn’t win big enough to score an injunction preventing Masimo from selling its watches. That sound you can’t hear right now is champagne corks not being popped in the hallowed halls of Apple Park.

Continue Reading.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/general/the-morning-after-engadget-newsletter-111516206.html?src=rss

The Morning After: Claim your Cash App settlement money

If you’ve used Cash App in the last six years, you might be entitled to compensation as part of a class-action settlement. The company set up a $15 million fund after breaches enabled a trove of user personal data to leak. You can file a claim through a dedicated settlement website, and depending on what you can prove, you could receive up to $2,500. If there’s a downside beyond having your private financial data leaked, it’s that you’ve only got until November 19 to file.

— Dan Cooper

Get this delivered daily direct to your inbox. Subscribe right here!

News in Brief

Generic image of the Google Homescreen
Google

Google is reportedly developing an AI agent for Chrome to act as a live assistant for your daily browsing. Codenamed Jarvis, because of course it is, it will help you with common tasks, like research, shopping and booking flights. Perhaps you could ask it to look at every price comparison website, collate the results and select the cheapest option. Maybe, in future, it could even buy, use and enjoy the thing you’re looking to purchase while you sit at your computer.

Continue Reading.

If you’ve ever noticed one of your Instagram videos looks worse now than it did before, there’s a reason. Instagram head Adam Mosseri revealed the platform intentionally downgrades video quality for clips not pulling eyeballs. Which feels like Instagram’s putting its finger on the scale for folks who’ve already cracked the secret of virality against those still working it out.

Continue Reading.

Image of the iMac G4
Apple

As elegant as Apple’s computers are, the last one to transcend that and become beautiful was the iMac G4. Now, the rumor mill is hinting the company’s long-rumored smart home display may wind up using the same design. On one hand, great, who doesn’t want to see what Apple can do with that design? On the other, Apple’s lackluster commitment to the smart home means it’ll probably be a pointless waste of money anyway.

Continue Reading.

Image of a Masimo Watch
Masimo

The endless battle between Apple and Masimo has seen the bigger company win its latest courtroom skirmish. Apple successfully argued some of Masimo’s watches infringed on Apple’s design patents but won just $250 (not a typo) in damages. Sadly, Apple didn’t win big enough to score an injunction preventing Masimo from selling its watches. That sound you can’t hear right now is champagne corks not being popped in the hallowed halls of Apple Park.

Continue Reading.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/general/the-morning-after-engadget-newsletter-111516206.html?src=rss

Unlock Hidden Insights with NotebookLM’s AI Power

NotebookLM PDF analysis tool

Imagine having an AI research assistant that never sleeps, tirelessly sorting through vast amounts of information to deliver exactly what you need, right when you need it. Whether you’re a student managing a flood of PDFs or a professional balancing multiple tasks, NotebookLM is designed to streamline your workflow with an impressive range of features. […]

The post Unlock Hidden Insights with NotebookLM’s AI Power appeared first on Geeky Gadgets.

Baseus Nomos Series: The Future of Fast Charging has Arrived

Baseus Qi2 Nomos Retractable Desktop Charger

  Baseus, has unveiled its latest charging innovation, the Nomos Series. This new line of fast-charging products is carefully designed to cater to a diverse range of users, including tech professionals, remote workers, and everyday consumers. The series underscores Baseus’ commitment to enhancing flexibility, efficiency, and intelligent design, setting a new benchmark in the fast-charging […]

The post Baseus Nomos Series: The Future of Fast Charging has Arrived appeared first on Geeky Gadgets.

Recycled plastic becomes stone-like sheets for sustainable furniture designs

We all know how bad plastic is for the planet, but no one will deny its versatility and affordability. Until we’re able to create a truly sustainable replacement that’s just as cheap to make, all we can do is take measures to reduce their impact on the environment. That might mean using bio-plastics, or it may mean reusing and recycling plastic into some other form.

Transforming plastic into new materials isn’t exactly new, but this innovation puts a new spin on that idea. Not only does it recycle plastic without using binders or glue, it also makes the resulting material almost as strong and as beautiful as stone. The result: striking furniture made almost 100% from plastic.

Desingers: Jared Seifert, Lauren Copping (Design Declassified)

There are plenty of ways to recycle plastic, but unlike wood or paper, the process involves a lot of water and energy. They also usually involve mixing some sort of binder or glue to keep the new material together, which ironically can make the new recycled plastic product less sustainable. And there’s also that distinct “recycled” aesthetic that may sometimes be seen as an advantage but can also be considered a flaw.

Design Declassified has developed a new kind of material that’s 100% made from recycled post-consumer and post-industrial thermoplastics without adding glue, resins, or even coloring to the mixture. This means that, after many years, the sheets can be recycled again for other purposes.

The recycled plastic sheets also come with a natural appearance not unlike marble or terrazzo, giving the material a unique character that looks nothing like your stereotypical recycled plastic. Available colors at the moment include Salt and Pepper, Moonlight, Mint, and Sea Moss, blends that you’d see in actual stone designs.

The material is durable as well, though definitely not as strong as marble or ceramic. In exchange, it retains its lightweight properties that make it easy to move around. It’s easy to cut into different shapes and forms as well, making it quite suitable for furniture like furniture, tiles for floors and walls, lighting, and even art installations.

Design Declassified is definitely an interesting solution to the plastic waste problem, especially if it can be mass-produced in an equally sustainable way. Although it doesn’t exactly reduce our reliance on plastic, it could at least help lessen the need to produce virgin plastic, especially if a more beautiful but equally versatile alternative is made available more easily.

The post Recycled plastic becomes stone-like sheets for sustainable furniture designs first appeared on Yanko Design.