Welcome to Daily Zaps, your regularly-scheduled dose of AI news ⚡️

Here’s what we got for ya today:

• 🎨 Midjourney's AI-image generator website

• 🔍 Microsoft AI Recall feature update

• 🇺🇸 California AI safety bill

•  💸 Second Neuralink patient

Let’s get right into it!

Sign Up | Advertise| Tools

STARTUPS

Midjourney's AI-image generator

Midjourney has launched a dedicated website where users can generate AI images for free, offering a smoother and more accessible experience compared to the previous Discord-based method. CEO David Holz announced that anyone can now try the site with a free trial that allows up to 25 image generations.

Previously, access to the website was restricted to users who had generated at least 10,000 images via Discord, but now it's open to all, making the process more user-friendly and intuitive. The website requires an account with either Google or Discord, and users can merge their accounts to retrieve their image history.

BIG TECH

Microsoft’s AI Recall feature

Microsoft plans to allow Windows testers to try its controversial Recall AI feature in October, after delaying its initial launch due to security concerns. Recall, which uses local AI models in Windows 11 to capture and allow users to search through screenshots of nearly everything they do on their PCs, was initially set to launch in June with Copilot Plus PCs.

However, security researchers identified vulnerabilities, leading Microsoft to make significant changes, such as encrypting the database and making the feature opt-in. Microsoft is prioritizing security and will conduct extensive testing with Windows Insiders before a broader release, which might not happen until next year.

GOVERNMENT

OpenAI joins opposition to California AI safety bill

California legislators are set to vote on a bill known as SB 1047, which aims to regulate the development and deployment of artificial intelligence in the state. The bill, introduced by State Senator Scott Wiener, would require safety testing for advanced AI models costing more than $100 million to develop and mandate a kill switch for AI systems that go awry. It also grants the state attorney general the power to sue non-compliant developers and requires third-party audits of safety practices.

While the bill has passed the state Senate and is moving through the Assembly, it faces opposition from some California Congressional Democrats and major tech companies, including Google, Meta, and OpenAI, who argue that it could stifle AI development and drive innovators out of the state.

STARTUPS

Second Neuralink patient

Neuralink, Elon Musk's brain-computer interface company, recently introduced its second human trial participant, who is successfully using the device to play video games and design software by controlling a computer with his thoughts. The company had previously faced challenges with its first participant when some implanted threads retracted, reducing the device's effectiveness. However, Neuralink addressed these issues by modifying the implantation process for the second participant, including deeper insertion of the threads.

The Neuralink device, which is fully implantable and wireless, represents a significant advancement in technology aimed at helping individuals with severe spinal cord injuries regain lost functions. Meanwhile, competitors like Synchron, Paradromics, and Precision Neuroscience are also developing similar brain-reading technologies, though Neuralink's approach appears to be the most advanced.