Google’s greenhouse gas emissions have increased by almost 50 percent over the past five years due to the energy-intensive nature of data centers required to power artificial intelligence, as stated in the company’s 2024 Environmental Report. Although Google aims to become carbon neutral by 2030, the rise in emissions poses a significant challenge.
The report highlights that the use of AI features, including training models, consumes a substantial amount of energy. Research conducted in 2023 by AI startup Hugging Face and Carnegie Mellon University revealed that generating a single image using artificial intelligence can consume as much energy as charging a smartphone.
Google is actively engaged in various AI projects, such as Gemini and generative AI tools, to enhance its services, including translation in over 100 languages. Additionally, the company is rumored to be developing AI chatbots in the future.
Despite the increase in greenhouse gas emissions, Google stated in the report that it anticipates a rise in total emissions before eventually decreasing towards its absolute emissions reduction target. However, the specific measures that will lead to this reduction were not specified.
In other news, Meta is making changes to its policy regarding the most-moderated word on its platforms, while Apple has revamped its Photos app to focus on customization. A new Resident Evil game is also in development under the direction of the creator of Resident Evil 7.
Michigan is set to introduce the nation’s first smart highway, featuring special sensors and communication equipment along three miles of I-94. This initiative, spearheaded by the Alphabet-backed startup Cavnue, aims to enhance traffic flow, prevent accidents, and improve overall transportation efficiency. The smart highway pilot project will initially span from Ann Arbor to Detroit, with plans to extend it to cover a total of 40 miles in six additional phases connecting both cities.
Furthermore, DJI, known for its drones, is venturing into e-bike motors with the Avinox Drive system. This move comes amidst potential bans on DJI drones in the US, prompting the company to diversify its product offerings. The Avinox Drive system boasts features such as lower weight, increased torque, and higher-capacity batteries, positioning it as a competitor to established e-bike motor manufacturers like Bosch and Shimano. The system will debut on a new e-bike model from the brand Amflow, weighing 19.2kg (42 pounds), which falls within the lighter range for electric mountain bikes.
Netflix has also announced a modern remake of the classic ’90s Minesweeper game as part of its gaming lineup. The updated version of the puzzle game takes players on a unique international adventure, challenging them to navigate through underwater mines.
Overall, these developments in technology and sustainability reflect the ongoing efforts of companies to innovate and adapt to changing environmental and market landscapes.
