Fashion Models Face AI and Digital Clones After Controversial Vogue Ad

The Rise of Digital Clones in the Modeling Industry

Fashion model Hannah James is navigating a complex decision as she considers whether to digitally clone herself. At 25, she’s aware of the potential risks that digital replicas could pose to her career. However, she also sees an opportunity to stay ahead of artificial intelligence and potentially increase her income before the technology becomes more widespread.

James recently partnered with Kartel.ai, a Beverly Hills startup that offers models a platform to create and license their digital likenesses for advertising campaigns. This collaboration highlights a growing trend where models are exploring how to leverage AI while protecting their interests.

“It's crazy to see what they can create in hours,” James said, reflecting on her decade-long modeling experience. “It's beautiful, but at the same time, it's scary.”

The Impact of AI on the Fashion Industry

The rise of AI-powered tools has introduced new challenges for models, who are now grappling with how to maintain control over their careers. These advancements allow for the quick generation of images and videos, making it easier to create digital clones of models or even entirely virtual people who don’t exist in real life.

Unlike real individuals, AI models don’t get sick or have bad skin days. They can be in multiple places at once and don’t require breaks during extensive campaigns. This efficiency has sparked debates about whether AI will take away jobs in an industry already dealing with concerns about financial exploitation.

Several brands have experimented with AI models, leading to mixed reactions from consumers. For example, the August issue of Vogue featured an ad by Los Angeles-based brand Guess that included a curvy blond AI model. Similarly, Swedish fast fashion retailer H&M showcased digital "twins" of some of its models in July. While these brands received attention for their innovative use of technology, they also faced criticism over job displacement and unrealistic beauty standards.

Concerns About Consent and Compensation

Sara Ziff, founder and executive director of the Model Alliance, highlighted the broader implications of using synthetic models. She emphasized that the industry needs clear standards for consent and compensation when using digital likenesses.

“Technology is definitely reshaping the modeling industry, and it's doing so by introducing synthetic models that threaten jobs and by digitizing real people, often without clear standards for consent or compensation,” Ziff said.

Many models aren't unionized because they’re typically independent contractors. Despite the glamorous image, models face numerous challenges, including late payments, financial debt, eating disorders, and sexual harassment.

Employment Trends and Earnings

Los Angeles remains a hub for fashion, modeling, and social media influencers. In 2024, there were 880 models employed in California, with most of those jobs concentrated in the Los Angeles metropolitan area. Nationally, there were an estimated 5,350 modeling jobs that year.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of models nationwide is expected to remain stable from 2023 to 2033. However, the bureau notes that cheaper options on social media or the reuse of images may affect the demand for traditional models. Each year, approximately 600 job openings are expected due to workers switching jobs or retiring.

In 2024, the median pay for a model was $89,990 a year or $43.26 an hour, according to the bureau.

Balancing Innovation and Fairness

As brands explore the use of AI, models are still trying to determine how to get fairly compensated when their digital likenesses are used. Rates can vary, and models may earn less from jobs their digital clones perform compared to in-person shoots. However, they might also complete more jobs without the need to travel.

Ben Kusin, co-founder of Kartel.ai, believes AI can help brands reduce costs associated with producing ad campaigns, such as travel and styling expenses. He emphasizes that models will still be paid and can choose whether to allow a brand to use their likeness.

“We're not looking to replace anybody. We're looking to supplement the industry," said Valentina Gonzalez, co-founder of Seraphinne Vallora, an AI marketing agency that worked with Guess. "Just like any other industry, you open new avenues of marketing. People have the choice."

The Future of Modeling

Despite the excitement around AI, some boutique modeling agencies are concerned about the impact on real models. Tereza Otto, co-founder of Otto Models, worries that it will become harder for models to compete against virtual people.

“We're getting into the realm of replacing models with these AI virtual people,” she said. “That won't bode well for our business, because there's a certain human purity to having an actual model do a campaign.”

For James, there will still be in-person photo shoots that she believes AI won’t be able to replicate. “It's important to have a vibe on set with who you're working with,” she said.

America's Robot-Powered Auto Plant Needs Humans

A New Era of Manufacturing at Hyundai’s Ellabell Plant

In the heart of Georgia, near Savannah, a state-of-the-art automobile manufacturing facility has taken shape. This is the new plant operated by the Hyundai Motor Group, a hub of innovation where technology and human expertise converge. The factory is home to an impressive array of robotic systems that perform a wide range of tasks, from moving materials and attaching doors to conducting nearly all welding operations.

Among the most eye-catching features are the dog-like robots equipped with cameras, which roam the floor to inspect partially assembled Ioniq electric vehicles. These robots are part of a larger system that includes 750 robots, not counting the hundreds of autonomous guided vehicles (AGVs) that navigate the facility. Approximately 1,450 employees work alongside these machines, maintaining a human-to-robot ratio of about 2-to-1, significantly lower than the U.S. auto-industry average of 7-to-1.

While robots handle many tasks, humans still play a crucial role in certain areas. They are responsible for identifying imperfections such as burrs or trim issues, installing fabric door panels, connecting electrical components, and accessing tight spaces to secure seats and shock absorbers. According to Hyundai Motor Co. CEO José Muñoz, the design of the plant ensures that robots tackle dangerous, repetitive, or physically demanding tasks, while humans focus on troubleshooting, quality monitoring, and adding craftsmanship to the process.

Unice Youmans exemplifies this human touch. She works on the metal-finishing line, removing dents, sanding imperfections, and cleaning frames before they move to the paint shop. “I don’t think it’s something that a machine can do because we have to be very hands-on with these cars,” she says.

Hyundai has committed to hiring 8,500 people at the Ellabell site by 2031 as part of a $2 billion incentive package from the state of Georgia. However, some workers express concerns about job security given the prevalence of robots. Salem Elzway, a postdoctoral fellow at Vanderbilt University, notes that automation increases when human labor becomes more costly or less efficient.

The integration of robots into the workplace is not a new phenomenon. Industrial robotics began in 1961 when General Motors introduced Unimate, a claw-handed robot, into a New Jersey factory. Since then, the use of robots in manufacturing has expanded significantly, particularly in countries like South Korea, which has one of the lowest birthrates globally. This demographic trend has driven the adoption of automated systems.

Despite the high level of automation, the U.S. still faces a shortage of over 400,000 manufacturing jobs. Hyundai claims its Ellabell factory is meeting its hiring goals, offering a starting hourly wage of $23.66 for entry-level positions—higher than local averages. New hires undergo training at a state-funded center, learning to program robots to trace patterns and manipulate objects. They also develop manual skills, such as checking for scratches and selecting the correct number of bolts by feel.

Trainees often have mixed feelings about their robotic counterparts. Some fear being blamed for a robot's mistake, while others worry about job displacement. Stephanie Redmon, who moved from Houston to join the factory, sees the opportunity as exciting. “I just think it’s going to be really cool,” she said.

The Role of Advanced Robotics in Manufacturing

The human workforce is sparse in many parts of the Hyundai plant. Metal arms move steel slabs through presses that stamp out vehicle components, and an array of robots weld these parts together without human oversight. It is only after the frames emerge from the paint shop that people take over, working along two assembly lines to add seats, dashboards, and other components.

At one station, a robot installs the powertrain beneath the frame, fastening it with large bolts, while two workers add additional fasteners. Jerry Roach, head of the factory’s general assembly department, explains that tasks requiring tactile feedback, adaptability, and problem-solving are best handled by humans.

Hyundai plans to introduce humanoid robots known as Atlas, developed by Boston Dynamics—a company in which Hyundai holds a controlling stake. Videos show Atlas sorting and carrying parts, but details about its potential role in the Ellabell plant remain unclear.

Experts believe a complete robot takeover is still decades away. Jorgen Pedersen, CEO of the Advanced Robotics for Manufacturing Institute, points out that robots struggle with flexible materials like fabric and lack the adaptability of humans. He emphasizes that human capabilities in handling complex tasks are often underestimated.

Quality control remains a critical responsibility for human workers, both during and after the assembly process. Vehicles undergo final inspections on a test track outside the factory, where team leader Chico Murphy drives Ioniqs over uneven pavement, checks brakes, and listens for loose parts. He believes that as long as people drive cars, they will value human verification.

“I think they like knowing that a human is there,” Murphy said. “It makes them feel a little safer than just relying on some machine.”

Greenwich High's 2025 Valedictorian Wins $50K for Science Breakthrough

A Young Innovator's Journey and Impact

In a remarkable achievement, Justin Bernstein, a valedictorian from Greenwich High School’s Class of 2025, has been awarded a $50,000 scholarship for his groundbreaking science project. This prestigious recognition comes through the Davidson Fellows Scholarship program, which honors young individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields.

Bernstein’s project focused on developing a bioengineering approach to slow the melting of Arctic ice. His innovative work not only highlights his scientific acumen but also demonstrates a deep commitment to addressing pressing environmental challenges. In a statement, he expressed his gratitude for being named a Davidson Fellow and his determination to continue using science as a tool for societal benefit.

The Davidson Fellows Scholarship program, established in 2001 by the Davidson Institute, a nonprofit organization based in Nevada, has been instrumental in supporting young talent across the United States. This year, 20 students from different parts of the country have been selected for their exceptional projects that have the potential to positively impact society. These projects span a wide range of disciplines, including science, technology, engineering, mathematics, literature, and music.

Each recipient of the scholarship can earn between $25,000, $50,000, or $100,000, with a total of $825,000 distributed among the fellows. Over the years, the program has awarded more than $10.7 million in scholarships to 469 students, showcasing its long-standing commitment to fostering innovation and excellence among young minds.

Bob Davidson, the founder of the Davidson Institute, emphasized the importance of the program in recognizing the remarkable research conducted by young people. He noted that the 2025 class of fellows continues to set new standards for achievement, celebrating a milestone year marked by innovation, perseverance, and the ongoing contributions of alumni who are making a lasting impact in their respective fields and communities.

Bernstein, the sole Connecticut student to be recognized this year, is currently a first-year student at Yale University. He plans to major in molecular biophysics and biochemistry, reflecting his passion for scientific discovery and problem-solving. In a statement, he shared his excitement about being part of the Davidson Fellows community, which he described as a group that refuses to accept the world as it is.

His journey exemplifies the power of curiosity, determination, and the desire to make a difference. As he continues his academic pursuits, Bernstein remains committed to asking questions, challenging limits, and building a future grounded in evidence and discovery. His achievements serve as an inspiration to others, highlighting the potential of young innovators to drive meaningful change in the world.

Luxury Hi-Fi Brand Unveils Affordable Bluetooth Speakers for Modern Vinyl Enthusiasts

New Active Speakers from Elipson Elevate Audio Experience

Elipson, a renowned French luxury audio brand, has recently introduced two new active speakers in its Horus series: the Horus 6B Active BT bookshelf speaker and the Horus 11F Active BT floorstander. These models are designed to deliver high-quality sound while offering versatile connectivity options for modern listening environments.

Both speakers come equipped with built-in 50W stereo amplification, ensuring powerful and clear audio output. They feature a sophisticated bass reflex system, which enhances low-frequency performance without compromising on clarity. The drivers used in these speakers include 130mm glass fiber-reinforced cellulose pulp bass/mid-range units and 25mm silk dome neodymium tweeters, providing a balanced and detailed soundstage.

The Horus 6B and Horus 11F are available in three elegant finishes: light wood / beige, walnut / dark gray, and black / carbon. This range of options allows users to choose a design that complements their home decor while maintaining a premium aesthetic.

Key Features and Connectivity Options

One of the standout features of the Horus 6B Active BT is its USB Audio connection, which supports plug-and-play functionality for PCs and Macs. This allows for high-resolution audio playback at up to 24-bit/96kHz, making it ideal for audiophiles who want to enjoy their digital music library in the best possible quality.

Additionally, the Horus 6B includes a moving magnet (MM) phono input, enabling direct connection to turntables without the need for an external pre-amp. This makes it a convenient choice for vinyl enthusiasts looking to integrate their analog collection into a modern audio setup.

Both speakers also offer multiple input options, including HDMI ARC for seamless integration with televisions, coaxial and optical inputs capable of handling 24-bit/192kHz audio, and Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD support. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices, from smartphones to streaming services.

Performance and Availability

In terms of frequency response, the Horus 11F Active BT delivers a broad range of 40Hz to 20,000Hz, making it suitable for a variety of music genres and listening scenarios. The Horus 6B Active BT has a slightly narrower range of 55Hz to 22,000Hz, but still provides excellent sound quality for most applications.

The Horus 6B Active BT is currently available for purchase, while the Horus 11F Active BT will be released in early October 2025. The recommended retail prices are £399 (approximately $530 or AU$840) for the Horus 6B and £899 (around $1,200 or AU$1,880) for the Horus 11F.

Conclusion

With their advanced features, stylish designs, and versatile connectivity, the Elipson Horus 6B and Horus 11F Active BT speakers are poised to become popular choices among both casual listeners and audiophiles. Whether you're looking to upgrade your home audio system or set up a dedicated listening space, these speakers offer a compelling combination of performance and style.

Auddia restructures engineering team

Auddia's Strategic Shift and Engineering Restructuring

Auddia, a company known for its innovative approach to the music industry, has recently announced a significant restructuring of its engineering team. This move is aimed at reducing operational costs while preparing the company for its upcoming transformation into an AI-native holding company. The restructuring is part of a broader strategy that includes the completion of a previously announced business combination.

Pablo Calderon, who currently serves as Auddia’s head of engineering and lead AI model developer, will be transitioning to the AI team at the holding company level. His role will involve supporting the AI engineering needs of the proposed subsidiaries, including Auddia itself. This shift highlights the company’s commitment to integrating artificial intelligence more deeply into its operations.

In addition to this change, Peter Shoebridge, Auddia’s Chief Technology Officer (CTO), will be leaving the company at the end of August. His departure marks a pivotal moment in the company's evolution, as it moves towards a more focused AI-driven structure.

New Business Model Focus

As part of the ongoing restructuring, Auddia is also changing its business model. Previously operating on a consumer subscription model, the company is now shifting towards a B2B SaaS (Software as a Service) model. This new approach aims to provide artists and labels with innovative tools to leverage AM/FM radio streams, thereby connecting them with mainstream radio listeners in a more effective manner.

This transition reflects Auddia’s strategic decision to align with the evolving demands of the music industry, where data-driven solutions are becoming increasingly essential. By focusing on B2B relationships, Auddia is positioning itself to offer value through scalable, technology-driven services.

Engineering Transition and Product Development

With the engineering transition now complete, Auddia's internal AI team will focus on training and productizing the AI Placement Engine. This engine is designed to enhance the company's capabilities in delivering targeted content to audiences through various platforms.

Meanwhile, a dedicated outsourced engineering team will take the lead in developing the Discovr Radio Portal. This portal is expected to serve as a key platform for users to access and interact with radio content in new ways. The company believes that this division of responsibilities will result in a more capital-efficient and faster product development process compared to the previous structure.

The launch of the Discovr Radio platform is anticipated to coincide with the completion of the AI-native holding company restructuring. This timing underscores the importance of aligning product launches with strategic organizational changes.

Future Outlook and Investment Opportunities

As Auddia continues to evolve, it is clear that the company is making significant strides in adapting to the changing landscape of the music and technology industries. The shift towards an AI-native structure and a B2B SaaS model represents a forward-thinking approach that could open up new avenues for growth and innovation.

For investors, these developments may present opportunities to engage with a company that is actively redefining its business model and leveraging cutting-edge technology. While specific investment details and performance metrics remain to be seen, the company's strategic direction suggests a commitment to long-term value creation.

Overall, Auddia's recent announcements signal a transformative phase for the company, one that is likely to shape its future trajectory in the dynamic world of digital media and artificial intelligence.

The AI Doomsday Clock Ticks

The Limits of Large Language Models and the Search for a Better Path to AGI

The race to develop artificial general intelligence (AGI) has become one of the most ambitious and competitive endeavors in modern technology. However, as top AI companies pour billions into building increasingly complex large language models (LLMs), many researchers are questioning whether these models are truly the path to achieving AGI.

The AI Bubble and Investor Concerns

OpenAI, now the most valuable startup in the world, has raised over $60 billion and is on track to surpass a $500 billion valuation. Its flagship product, ChatGPT, boasts 700 million weekly users and has set the pace for the AI industry. Despite this success, concerns about profitability and long-term viability persist. OpenAI is not yet profitable, and its mission to create AGI that benefits all of humanity remains unfulfilled.

Other major players like Google, Meta, xAI, and Anthropic are also investing heavily in scaling their LLMs. This includes acquiring talent, buying data, and constructing massive data centers. Yet, the gap between the hype surrounding AI and the reality of its capabilities is growing. Some investors and industry leaders believe the AI sector is experiencing a bubble, with expectations outpacing actual progress.

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, has acknowledged that the current excitement around AI may be excessive. Meanwhile, a recent stock market sell-off highlighted widespread uncertainty. Investors are now closely watching Nvidia’s earnings report, as the company plays a critical role in powering LLMs. If the results show signs of slowing growth, it could trigger further doubts about the future of AI.

The Problem with Large Language Models

Despite their impressive performance, LLMs have significant limitations. A June paper from Apple researchers titled “The Illusion of Thinking” found that advanced reasoning models struggle with complex tasks, relying more on pattern recognition than true understanding. This raises concerns about whether LLMs can evolve into AGI.

Andrew Gelman, a professor at Columbia University, compared the performance of LLMs to human cognition, stating that while they can handle simple tasks, they fall short when it comes to deeper reasoning. Geoffrey Hinton, often called the "Godfather of AI," has argued that training models to predict the next word forces them to understand context. However, many researchers disagree, pointing to issues such as hallucination, misinformation, and inconsistent outputs.

A German study found that LLMs across 30 languages have an average hallucination rate of 7% to 12%, reinforcing the idea that these models are not yet reliable for critical applications. Companies that adopt AI often require human oversight to ensure accuracy and safety.

The Scaling Dilemma

Many AI researchers believe that increasing the size of LLMs will eventually lead to AGI. This approach, known as scaling, is based on the idea that more data and computational power will improve model performance. However, recent studies suggest that LLMs may be hitting a wall, with diminishing returns as they scale.

Yann LeCun, Meta’s chief AI scientist, has emphasized that simply adding more data and compute does not guarantee smarter AI. He advocates for alternative approaches, such as world models, which simulate real-world environments rather than relying solely on text-based patterns.

New Approaches to AGI

Researchers like Fei Fei Li and Yann LeCun are exploring alternatives to LLMs. World models, for example, aim to replicate how humans learn by simulating and interacting with the physical world. These models can make predictions and adapt to new situations, offering a more robust foundation for AGI.

Google’s DeepMind recently released Genie 3, a world model capable of simulating real-world environments like volcanic terrain or underwater landscapes. This development highlights the potential of world models to enable AI systems that can reason, plan, and interact with the physical world.

Other promising approaches include neuroscience-inspired models, multi-agent systems, and embodied AI. Embodied AI, in particular, integrates world models into physical forms, allowing robots to interpret and learn from their surroundings.

The Future of AI

While LLMs have made remarkable strides, many experts agree that they are not the final solution. As the AI industry continues to evolve, the focus is shifting toward more holistic and adaptive models. Researchers like Gary Marcus, once considered skeptical, now advocate for a move away from pure scaling and toward cognitive models that better reflect human intelligence.

The journey to AGI remains uncertain, but the search for better alternatives is ongoing. Whether through world models, embodied AI, or other innovative approaches, the next phase of AI development could redefine what it means to create intelligent machines.

Top 5 Switch 2 Cases Tested – The Winner Revealed

The Best Switch 2 Case I've Tried

Since the release of the Switch 2, I’ve tested a wide range of cases. From the smart but bulky charging case from Belkin to the nearly great felt Sleeper Case from Genki, an incredibly slim and simple one from TomToc, and even the official Nintendo case, each has had its own unique strengths. However, as I settle into long-term use with the console, it's time to choose which case I'll rely on daily.

The winner surprised me at first, but after several weeks of testing, especially with a small design flaw now fixed, it became clear that Dbrand’s Killswitch system is the standout choice.

What Makes the Killswitch Unique

The Killswitch isn’t just a typical case; it's a protective shell that can be applied to different parts of the Switch 2. At its core is a pair of Joy-Con protectors that your controllers clip into, along with a sleeve for the middle portion of the console. This setup makes the Switch 2 slightly bulkier, but significantly more ergonomic in handheld mode.

When you're ready to store or travel with your console, you can simply attach a frosted plastic cover that securely wraps around the Switch 2 using an elastic strap. This cover also includes a magnetically attached cart holder that can hold up to ten spare games.

If you plan to dock your Switch 2, the sleeve may make it too thick to fit into the standard dock. To address this, Dbrand provides a docking attachment that slots into the dock and allows you to attach the console externally. While not the most elegant solution, it works effectively.

Addressing Initial Issues

When the Killswitch first launched, some users reported two main issues. First, when holding the console with one hand in portable mode, the Switch 2’s controller could detach more easily than without the case, posing a risk of dropping. Second, the initial docking attachment wasn't smooth to use and required more effort to dock or undock the console with one hand.

Dbrand has since addressed these problems. They sent a supplementary kit to all existing customers, including friction pads to improve the grip of the docking attachment and redesigned Joy-Con grips that offer a better magnetic connection to the main body of the console. These updates have largely resolved the issues.

My Personal Experience

I haven’t used the docking attachment much because I almost always play the Switch 2 in handheld mode. For me, removing the sleeve when I want to dock the console is easier and saves space next to my TV. I didn’t have any issues with the original Joy-Con grips, but the revised versions are a welcome improvement for long-term use.

Despite the initial hiccups, I appreciate how Dbrand has worked to fix the problems. However, what truly convinced me was the comfort the Killswitch provides. While I never found the Switch 2 uncomfortable, many people criticize its lack of ergonomics. The added grip and comfort from the Killswitch make a noticeable difference, and I’ve grown so used to it that playing without it feels odd.

Additional Features

I also enjoy the small control stick-caps included with the case, which make the control sticks more grippy. When I use the Switch 2 without the Killswitch, it feels less comfortable, and when I compare it to other cases, the added bulk isn’t a major issue when packing it away.

Overall, I’m very satisfied with the Killswitch system. It offers excellent protection and comfort, making it my top recommendation for Switch 2 owners. One thing to note is that shipping can be pricey if you’re not based in the US.