Netflix Apparently Has Big Plans To Create Content With AI

The ongoing SAG-AFTRA strikes have brought AI technology to the forefront of negotiations, as actors and writers strive for fair compensation from Hollywood production studios. Generative AI, capable of generating text, images, and audio, is perceived as a potential threat to traditional job roles, raising concerns about its impact on human talent. Amidst this backdrop, Netflix stands out as a notable player, offering exorbitant salaries of up to $900,000 per year to individuals with expertise in AI and related fields.

A recent Netflix job posting for a Product Manager in Machine Learning illustrates the stark contrast in compensation between AI-related roles and traditional acting gigs. While background “extra” actors earn a mere $100 to $200 for a day’s work, unionized SAG members fare slightly better with a base rate of around $187. In contrast, Netflix is willing to pay handsomely for AI and ML expertise, acknowledging the pivotal role these technologies play in creating captivating content.

Netflix’s reliance on AI and ML technologies has been limited to technical tasks, not encroaching on the creative domain of writers, actors, and graphics designers. However, as the entertainment industry increasingly embraces AI’s potential, Netflix seeks to capitalize on its benefits. The company has already utilized generative AI in its mobile game “Scriptic: Crime Stories” to enhance gameplay narration.

The willingness to invest in AI talent is evident in the impressive salaries Netflix offers for roles involving AI and ML expertise. A “Technical Director, AI/ML” assisting with game development can earn up to $650,000, while a Level-6 Research Scientist exploring cutting-edge AI use cases to solve Netflix’s challenges can make $900,000. Other AI-related roles like Product Manager (ML platform) and Engineering Manager (ML, Member Satisfaction) offer competitive compensation, up to $900,000 and $842,000 per year, respectively.

This trend highlights the entertainment industry’s growing interest in leveraging AI to streamline workflows and drive profitability. For instance, owning an artist’s likeness through AI technology has become a contentious issue. SAG-AFTRA rejected a proposal from AMPTP, representing Hollywood production houses, seeking to pay a one-time fee of $200 to own an artist’s digital likeness for future use without additional compensation.

The widespread consensus is that AI is inevitable in the entertainment sector. Marvel’s use of AI for credit posters and the recreation of The Beatles’ song in the voice of a deceased band-member exemplify its potential. However, the key concern during the strikes is not only fair wages but also securing a commitment from studios that AI implementation will not come at the expense of human talent.

As Netflix continues to invest significantly in AI talent, it raises concerns for protesting writers and actors who fear being sidelined by technology. Striking a balance between AI and human creativity remains an important challenge for the industry’s future.

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Entertainment

Nintendo Switch 2: Everything We Know About Nintendo’s Next Console

by George Mensah 2025-01-19

Nintendo has officially ended the speculation, giving fans their first glimpse of the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2. A teaser video for the second-generation console was unveiled today, building excitement for the upcoming Nintendo Direct event scheduled for April 2, 2025. While the exact market launch date remains undisclosed, more details are expected during the event.

In addition, Nintendo has announced hands-on experience events across North America, Europe, and Asia. In the United States, these events will be held in Los Angeles, New York, and Dallas, starting in the first week of April. Fans will have the chance to explore the new console’s features firsthand.

Updated Design and Features

The Nintendo Switch 2 retains the iconic design of its predecessor but introduces several refinements. The Joy-Con controllers have a slightly more rounded shape, enhancing comfort during extended play sessions. The kickstand has been redesigned for a more polished appearance, and the USB-C port has been repositioned to the top edge for added convenience.

A notable new feature is the addition of a physical button on the right-side Joy-Con, located just below the Home button. Although Nintendo has not yet revealed its function, this button hints at new gameplay possibilities. Additionally, the shoulder buttons have been enlarged, improving usability and tactile feedback.

Backward Compatibility and Exclusive Games

Nintendo has confirmed that the Switch 2 will support backward compatibility, allowing gamers to enjoy their existing game libraries. At the same time, the console will launch with a collection of exclusive titles. Exclusive games were a cornerstone of the original Switch’s success, and Nintendo seems determined to replicate this strategy by delivering a strong lineup of new titles.

Speculation on Hardware Upgrades

Although Nintendo has not disclosed the technical specifications, leaks and reports provide a glimpse into the console’s potential. According to ZachyCatGames, a data miner on Famiboards (via Beebom), the Switch 2’s CPU may feature Arm’s Cortex-A78 cores in an octa-core configuration, running at 998.4 MHz.

In docked mode, the CPU is expected to exceed 1GHz, while the GPU is rumored to deliver over 3 TFLOPS of performance. The graphics processor, reportedly Nvidia’s T239 GPU based on the Ampere architecture, may include 1,534 CUDA cores, six texture processing clusters, 48 Tensor cores, and two ray-tracing cores. This marks a substantial improvement in graphical capabilities.

The console is also rumored to include 12GB of LPDDR5 memory, ensuring faster performance and smoother gameplay. DigitalFoundry’s analysis (via GameSpot) supports these claims, suggesting that the Switch 2 could set a new standard for handheld gaming.

What to Expect

The Nintendo Switch 2 is shaping up to be a revolutionary console, offering significant improvements in both design and performance. Unlike the OLED model, which primarily focused on display enhancements, the Switch 2 is expected to deliver a comprehensive upgrade that appeals to both casual and dedicated gamers.

As the Nintendo Direct event approaches, anticipation continues to build for more information about pricing, release dates, and additional features. For now, the teaser and leaked details provide plenty of reasons to look forward to Nintendo’s next big innovation. Stay tuned for further updates on the Nintendo Switch 2, as it promises to redefine the handheld gaming experience.

Entertainment

How to Use Your iPhone 16 Camera Control as a Second Action Button

by George Mensah 2024-10-21

Apple has introduced a new Camera Control button on the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro, aimed at enhancing the photography experience for users. While many are accustomed to the onscreen controls, this physical button offers unique features and the flexibility to handle more than just camera functions.

Understanding the iPhone 16 Camera Control Button

The Camera Control button is an innovative combination of a physical button and a capacitive slider, allowing users to easily adjust various camera settings like zoom, contrast, and brightness. However, its functionality doesn’t end with photography; it can be customized to act as a second Action button for other tasks.

Visual Intelligence: An Upcoming Feature

One of the most exciting features associated with the Camera Control button is Visual Intelligence. This capability utilizes Apple’s AI technology to provide information about what the camera is focused on. For instance, it can identify restaurant details, determine dog breeds, or offer study aids through AI models like ChatGPT. To activate Visual Intelligence, press and hold the Camera Control button and tap it again to view relevant information. This feature is set to roll out later this year.

Current Uses of the Camera Control Button

While waiting for Visual Intelligence, you can already make good use of the Camera Control button for various non-photographic tasks. If your primary Action button is already designated for functions like the flashlight, you can assign the Camera Control button for features like Magnifier or Code Scanner.

Accessing the Magnifier

The Magnifier feature is particularly handy for magnifying small text or intricate details. Traditionally, accessing it requires several steps through the Control Center. By assigning it to the Camera Control button, you can simplify this process significantly.

To set it up:

Navigate to Settings > Camera > Camera Control and select Magnifier.

Now, pressing the Camera Control button will instantly activate the Magnifier. Additionally, by applying a firm touch to the button, you can adjust zoom and settings like contrast, brightness, and filters without navigating through the screen.

Using the Code Scanner

For those who frequently scan QR codes, the Code Scanner can also be assigned to the Camera Control button for quick access. This allows for immediate use of the QR code reader, and you can zoom in by firm-pressing the button, which isn’t possible with the standard Camera app.

To configure this:

Go to Settings > Camera > Camera Control and choose Code Scanner.

The Code Scanner has several advantages, such as the ability to turn on the flashlight for better scanning visibility and opening the QR code’s link within a dedicated app rather than a cluttered Safari window.

Future Possibilities for the Camera Control Button

Although the Camera Control button currently supports only camera-related applications, there is potential for future enhancements. It could evolve to function as a quick document scanner or activate accessibility features like Live Recognition. The possibilities for expanding its functionality are exciting for iPhone 16 users.

In conclusion, the Camera Control button on the iPhone 16 offers a range of customizable features that extend beyond photography. Whether you’re adjusting camera settings or streamlining daily tasks, this button enhances your overall iPhone experience.

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