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AI Music Fraud: The Dark Side of Artificial Intelligence in the Music Industry

Explore the AI music fraud scandal and its implications for the music industry, including artists’ concerns and platforms’ responses.

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AI music fraud

TL;DR:

  • A US musician allegedly used AI and bots to fraudulently stream songs for millions in royalties.
  • The scheme involved thousands of AI-generated tracks and bot accounts.
  • Artists and record labels are concerned about the fair distribution of profits from AI-created music.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionising industries worldwide, including the music sector. However, recent events have shed light on the darker side of AI in music, with fraudulent activities raising serious concerns. In a groundbreaking case, a musician in the US has been accused of using AI tools and bots to manipulate streaming platforms and claim millions in royalties. Let’s delve into the details of this scandal and explore the broader implications for the music industry.

The AI Music Fraud Scheme

Michael Smith, a 52-year-old from North Carolina, has been charged with multiple counts of wire fraud, wire fraud conspiracy, and money laundering conspiracy. Prosecutors allege that Smith used AI-generated songs and thousands of bot accounts to stream these tracks billions of times across various platforms. This elaborate scheme aimed to avoid detection and claim over $10 million in royalty payments.

According to the indictment, Smith operated up to 10,000 active bot accounts at times. He partnered with the CEO of an unnamed AI music company, who supplied him with thousands of tracks each month. In exchange, Smith provided track metadata and a share of the streaming revenue. Emails between Smith and his co-conspirators reveal the sophistication of the technology used, making the scheme increasingly difficult to detect.

The Impact on the Music Industry

The rise of AI-generated music and the availability of free tools to create tracks have sparked concerns among artists and record labels. These tools are trained on vast amounts of data, often scraped indiscriminately from the web, including content protected by copyright. Artists feel their work is being used without proper recognition or compensation, leading to outrage across creative industries.

Earlier this year, a track that cloned the voices of Drake and The Weeknd went viral, prompting platforms to remove it swiftly. Additionally, prominent artists like Billie Eilish, Chappell Roan, Elvis Costello, and Aerosmith signed an open letter calling for an end to the “predatory” use of AI in the music industry.

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Platforms’ Response to AI Fraud

Music streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube have taken steps to combat artificial stream inflation. Spotify, for instance, has implemented changes to its royalties policies, including charging labels and distributors for detected artificial streams and increasing the stream threshold for royalty payments. These measures aim to protect the integrity of the streaming ecosystem and ensure fair compensation for artists.

The Legal Consequences

Michael Smith faces severe legal consequences if found guilty, with potential prison sentences spanning decades. This case serves as a stark reminder of the legal and ethical boundaries surrounding AI and its applications. As AI continues to evolve, the need for robust regulations and enforcement becomes increasingly critical.

The Future of AI in Music

While the misuse of AI in the music industry is a cause for concern, it’s essential to recognise the positive potential of this technology. AI can enhance creativity, streamline production processes, and open new avenues for artistic expression. Balancing innovation with ethical considerations will be key to harnessing the benefits of AI while protecting the rights of creators.

Comment and Share:

What are your thoughts on the use of AI in the music industry? Do you believe it opens up new creative possibilities or poses a threat to artists’ rights? Share your opinions and experiences in the comments below. Don’t forget to subscribe for updates on AI and AGI developments.

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10 AI Prompts to Turn Your Pet Photos Into Phone Wallpapers (Plus Freebies!)

Discover 10 amazing prompts for how to create AI-powered phone wallpapers with AI platform, Midjourney. Unleash your inner artist!

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AI pet phone wallpapers

TL;DR

  • Learn how to turn your pet photos into stunning AI-generated wallpapers for your phone.
  • Includes 10 creative AI prompts, from fantasy hero pets to minimalist silhouettes.
  • Tips on using tools like MidJourney or DALL-E, optimising images, and sharing creations.

AI Pet Phone Wallpapers

Whether you’re a proud pet parent or simply adore animals, turning your furry (or feathery) friend into stunning AI-generated art is an exciting way to personalise your phone. With AI tools like MidJourney, DALL-E, or Stable Diffusion, you can create incredible, artistic renditions of your pet that fit your style and aesthetic.

In this article, we’ll share 10 unique AI prompts tailored to transform your pet photos into captivating works of art for your phone. You’ll also find detailed tips for getting started and optimising your wallpapers for the perfect fit.

Handy hint: Like the look of one of these images? Tap and hold on your phone and choose ‘Set as Wallpaper’ (or a similar option)—AIinASIA Editor

Why Create AI Phone Wallpapers of Your Pet?

  • Celebrate Your Pet: Turn your beloved companion into a piece of art you can cherish every time you unlock your phone.
  • Personalisation: Make your phone truly unique with wallpapers that reflect your style and personality.
  • Explore Creativity: Experiment with different artistic styles—be it fantasy, minimalist, or futuristic—and see your pet like never before.

Getting Started with AI-Generated Pet Wallpapers

To create AI art that truly stands out, follow these simple steps:

  1. Choose Your AI Tool: Platforms like MidJourney, DALL-E, or Stable Diffusion are perfect for generating artistic images from prompts. Look for features like image-to-image transformations, which allow you to upload your pet’s photo as a reference.
  2. Pick a High-Quality Photo: AI tools perform better with clear, detailed images. Choose a well-lit photo where your pet’s features—eyes, fur, feathers—are easy to distinguish.
  3. Tailor the Aspect Ratio: Most phones use a 9:16 aspect ratio (e.g., 1080×1920 pixels). Many AI platforms let you specify image dimensions before generating your artwork.
  4. Experiment with Prompts: Use the creative prompts provided below, or modify them to suit your pet’s personality and your artistic preferences.
  5. Finalise and Optimise: After generating the artwork, use tools like Canva or Snapseed to crop, adjust colours, or apply finishing touches.

10 AI Prompts for Stunning Pet Wallpapers

1. Fantasy Realm Hero

Inspiration: Imagine your dog as a knight or your cat as a sorceress—ready to embark on epic adventures!

Prompt: “A majestic portrait of [your pet’s species] wearing intricate fantasy armour, glowing eyes, standing atop a mountain, ethereal lighting, detailed fur texture, high-resolution phone wallpaper.”

pet phone wallpapers

2. Watercolour Painting

Inspiration: A soft, elegant depiction that works beautifully as a lock screen.

Prompt: “A hand-painted watercolour portrait of [your pet’s breed], soft pastel tones, white background, minimalistic style, high-resolution for phone wallpaper.”

pet phone wallpapers

3. Neon Cyberpunk

Inspiration: Perfect for sci-fi fans who love bold, high-energy designs.

Prompt: “A cyberpunk-style portrait of [your pet’s name], glowing neon colours, city skyline background, futuristic armour, vibrant lighting effects, high-resolution wallpaper.”

pet phone wallpapers

4. Royal Portrait

Inspiration: Imagine your pet as king, queen, or duke—complete with a gilded frame.

Prompt: “A regal portrait of [your pet’s species] dressed in Victorian royal attire, soft studio lighting, intricate clothing details, realistic painting, designed for a phone wallpaper.”

pet phone wallpapers

5. Dreamy Galaxy Explorer

Inspiration: Great for cosmic dreamers who want their pet among the stars.

Prompt: “A whimsical depiction of [your pet’s breed] floating in a galaxy, surrounded by planets and stars, dreamy pastel colours, cosmic glow, phone wallpaper resolution.”

pet phone wallpapers

6. Comic Book Superhero

Inspiration: Give your pet a bold, action-packed look with superhero vibes.

Prompt: “A dynamic comic book illustration of [your pet’s species] in superhero attire, bold colours, action pose, halftone effects, phone wallpaper resolution.”

pet phone wallpapers

7. Pop Art Extravaganza

Inspiration: Bright, eye-catching art for fans of modern and retro styles.

Prompt: “A vibrant pop art portrait of [your pet’s species], bold colours, abstract shapes in the background, Andy Warhol-inspired design, phone wallpaper size.”

pet phone wallpapers

8. Winter Wonderland

Inspiration: A seasonal touch for those who love winter themes.

Prompt: “A serene portrait of [your pet’s name] sitting in a snowy forest, soft light, frost-covered trees, realistic fur details, high-resolution phone wallpaper.”

pet phone wallpapers

9. Minimalist Silhouette

Inspiration: Perfect for a sleek, understated home screen.

Prompt: “A minimalist black-and-white silhouette of [your pet’s breed], clean lines, solid colour background, modern art style, high-resolution for phone wallpaper.”

10. Anime-Inspired Portrait

Inspiration: A playful depiction of your pet in a whimsical anime world.

Prompt: “An anime-style illustration of [your pet’s species], big expressive eyes, pastel colours, soft background, whimsical vibe, high-resolution phone wallpaper.”

pet phone wallpapers

Pro Tips for AI Success With AI-Generated Art

  1. Fine-Tune Prompts: Be specific about the colours, textures, and settings to get the best results.
  2. Use Advanced Features: Many AI tools offer style transfer or reference image settings—use them for a more customised look.
  3. Generate Variations: Create multiple versions of the same prompt to explore different artistic outcomes.

Sharing Your Creations

Once you’ve created your masterpiece, share it! Post your custom wallpapers on Instagram, Pinterest, or your favourite social platforms. Tag AIinASIA to inspire fellow pet lovers and show off your AI creations.

Final Thoughts on AI Personalised Wallpapers

AI tools are opening up endless possibilities for creating personalised and unique art. With these prompts, you can transform your pet into a star on your phone screen—whether they’re ruling a fantasy kingdom, exploring space, or posing as a royal icon.

Get started today and let your imagination run wild. Don’t forget to drop a comment or tag us with your favourites—your pet might just become the next AI art sensation!

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Everyday Hacks with Google and Microsoft AI Tools

Learn how AI productivity tools like Gemini and Copilot are transforming everyday workflows—and why a human touch still matters.

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AI productivity tools

TL;DR

  • Google’s Gemini and Microsoft’s Copilot are reshaping productivity with advanced AI features integrated into their suites.
  • Gemini offers features like email summarisation, smart replies, and data analysis through Google Workspace, starting at $20 per user/month.
  • Copilot, integrated into Microsoft 365, helps with document drafting, meeting automation, and data visualisation, starting at $30 per user/month.
  • Both tools are designed to streamline repetitive tasks, improve collaboration, and spark creativity.

Embracing AI Productivity Tools In Your Daily Workflows

If you’ve ever wished for a workday where you can skip the admin grind and focus on the good stuff—creative ideas, strategy, and, dare I say it, an actual lunch break—Google’s Gemini and Microsoft’s Copilot are here to make it happen. These AI productivity tools are redefining how we work, play, and (let’s be honest) survive in today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world. Let’s explore how they’re transforming workflows and what’s in it for you.


Gemini: Google’s AI Assistant for Productivity Bliss

Launching in January 2025, Google’s Gemini is set to become the ultimate assistant for users of Google Workspace (yes, that’s what used to be G Suite). With AI weaved into Gmail, Docs, Sheets, Slides, and even Meet, Gemini aims to make the everyday less tedious and a whole lot smarter.

Gemini’s Features You’ll Actually Use

  • In Gmail: Writing emails? Gemini can do it for you. Endless threads? Summarised. Replies? Smart and context-aware.
  • In Google Docs: It’s like having a co-writer on speed dial, helping draft, summarise, or even whip up images for your content.
  • In Google Sheets: Need data entered or trends spotted? Gemini has you covered with its enhanced Smart Fill feature.
  • In Google Slides: Presentation nerves? Gemini’s image creation and background removal tools ensure your slides look the part.
  • In Google Meet: From automatic note-taking to real-time translated captions, meetings just got a lot less exhausting.

Subscription Plans

  • Gemini Business: $20 per user/month with basic features and usage limits.
  • Gemini Enterprise: $30 per user/month, giving you premium features and more elbow room to explore Gemini’s capabilities.

Why Gemini Stands Out

As Upcurve Cloud says, Gemini doesn’t just help you “get things done”—it’s about doing them better. Whether it’s cutting through email chaos or polishing your next big presentation, Gemini’s AI helps you reclaim time for what matters. Bonus points for Google’s enterprise-grade security keeping your data safe.

Real-World Example: Gemini as a Productivity Tool

Creospark has many examples of using Copilot, such as Adore Me, a lingerie and sleepwear company, has leveraged Gemini to dramatically reduce the time spent on content creation—reducing over 35 hours of work creating product descriptions to just 30 minutes using Gemini, illustrating Gemini’s powerful capability to automate and accelerate content generation tasks, resulting in substantial time savings for e-commerce businesses.


Microsoft Copilot: The AI Powerhouse for Work Smarts

Not to be outdone, Microsoft has embedded Copilot into its Microsoft 365 ecosystem, turning apps like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Teams into supercharged productivity hubs. If you’ve ever dreamt of an assistant who “just gets it”, Copilot is the next best thing.

What Copilot Brings to the Table

  • In Word: Copilot drafts, edits, and summarises like a champ, cutting hours off document creation.
  • In Excel: Data insights? Charts? Done and done. Let Copilot turn rows of numbers into actionable insights.
  • In PowerPoint: Presentations are no longer a slog—Copilot suggests content, designs, and layouts tailored to your needs.
  • In Outlook: It sorts your inbox, drafts replies, and highlights what actually matters.
  • In Teams: Catch-up summaries, action items, and real-time transcription make meetings less painful.

Subscription Options

  • Commercial Plans: $30 per user/month for enterprises and large teams.
  • Personal Plans: A modest $3/month price hike adds Copilot to Microsoft 365 Personal and Family subscriptions.

The Copilot Advantage

Copilot doesn’t just automate—it elevates. Imagine crafting a polished report in minutes or summarising a day’s worth of meetings at the click of a button. With its seamless integration across Microsoft 365 apps, Copilot ensures everything is right where you need it, when you need it.

Real-World Example: Copilot as a Productivity Too

Hargreaves Lansdown, a financial services company, has successfully used Copilot to streamline their workflow—financial advisers used Copilot to generate meeting summaries and annual review reports for clients, streamlining their workflow, demonstrating how Copilot can significantly improve efficiency in document creation and client communication in the financial sector.

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The Real Impact of AI Productivity Tools

Both Gemini and Copilot are more than just fancy add-ons; they’re reshaping how work gets done. These AI tools are tackling the biggest pain points in the modern workplace:

  1. Saving Time: Whether summarising emails or automating reports, these tools free up hours in your day.
  2. Enhancing Creativity: With AI handling the grunt work, you can focus on big ideas and polished results.
  3. Improving Collaboration: From shared notes to instant insights, teams work better together.
  4. Boosting Decision-Making: Advanced data analysis gives you the insights you need to act fast.

A Word of Caution: Trust but Verify

AI tools like Gemini and Copilot can supercharge your productivity, but they’re not infallible. While they’re brilliant for handling the grunt work, they’re no replacement for human oversight and judgement.

Why Double-Checking Matters

  1. Accuracy: AI-generated outputs can occasionally misinterpret context or make errors.
  2. Appropriateness: AI doesn’t always understand nuances like brand voice, cultural sensitivity, or workplace-specific policies.
  3. Over-Reliance: Depending solely on AI may reduce your own engagement with the material, leading to missed opportunities or oversights.

Practical Tips for Responsible AI Use

  • Review Outputs Carefully: Always double-check AI-generated summaries, drafts, or data visualisations before sharing or implementing them.
  • Add the Human Touch: Make edits to ensure the content aligns with your goals, tone, and audience.
  • Use AI as a Starting Point: Let the AI handle the groundwork, but refine the output with your expertise.
  • Train AI Over Time: Where possible, provide feedback to improve the tool’s understanding of your preferences.

By staying engaged and bringing a human touch to AI-generated content, you can ensure your work remains accurate, professional, and impactful.


What’s Next? The AI Productivity Revolution

AI tools like Gemini and Copilot are undoubtedly paving the way for smarter, more efficient workplaces. But let’s remember that these tools are here to complement human skills, not replace them. By using AI responsibly—embracing its strengths while applying critical judgement—we can unlock its full potential without sacrificing quality or trust.


Your Turn

How do you strike the balance between relying on AI and adding your personal touch? Do you think we risk becoming too dependent on these tools? Share your thoughts in the comments below—we’d love to hear your perspective!

And don’t forget to subscribe for updates on AI and AGI developments here. Let’s build a community of tech enthusiasts and stay ahead of the curve together!

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ChatGPT’s Thirst for Water

Explore the connection between AI water usage and wildfire management.

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AI water usage

TL;DR:

  • AI data centres consume millions of gallons of water annually for cooling purposes.
  • Reducing ChatGPT usage can help conserve water needed to combat wildfires in cities.
  • Companies are exploring alternative cooling methods and data centre locations to minimise water usage.

In the midst of the blazing wildfires in the greater Los Angeles area, residents are eager to contribute to firefighting efforts in any way possible. While donations and volunteering are top of mind, a surprising call to action has emerged on social media: refrain from using ChatGPT.

Wait! What does ChatGPT have to do with water conservation and wildfire management?

This provocative suggestion raises the question: what does ChatGPT have to do with water conservation and wildfire management? Let’s dive in and explore the hidden connection between AI and water usage.

The Water-Guzzling Reality of AI Data Centres

AI platforms like ChatGPT rely on massive data centres to function. These data centres are packed with high-performance computer chips that process user queries, generating immense heat. To prevent servers from overheating and crashing, sophisticated cooling systems are employed, many of which rely on water.

“Because the computers and chipsets that power servers are so densely packed, they generate an incredible amount of heat. Running complex AI applications like ChatGPT requires immense amounts of computing power, which generate lots of heat 24 hours a day.”
HP Newquist, Artificial Intelligence Historian and Author
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The sheer volume of water consumed by these data centres is staggering. Some large facilities use millions of gallons of water annually to absorb and dissipate heat through cooling towers or evaporative cooling methods. This water usage can have a significant impact on local water supplies, especially in drought-prone areas.

The Collective Impact of Individual AI Usage

While it may seem like an individual ChatGPT query has a negligible effect on water consumption, the collective impact of millions of users interacting with AI services adds up quickly. By making small changes, such as delaying non-urgent AI tasks, Angelenos can contribute to conserving water and energy for critical firefighting efforts.

“Data centres that host AI services like ChatGPT continuously consume power and indirectly rely on water for cooling. By making small changes like delaying non-urgent AI tasks, Angelenos can contribute to ensuring that water and energy remain available where they’re needed most during these high-risk periods.”
Daniel Kearney, Chief Technology Officer, Firmus Technologies
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Exploring Alternative Cooling Solutions

As AI continues to advance, finding sustainable solutions for data centre cooling is becoming increasingly important. Some companies are exploring alternative cooling methods and data centre locations to minimise water usage.

One promising approach is immersion cooling, which involves submerging hardware in a special cooling liquid. This method can significantly reduce water consumption compared to traditional cooling techniques. Additionally, some AI companies are opting to build data centres in colder regions, where lower ambient temperatures can help regulate server temperatures more efficiently.

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“Many companies are building server centres near polar regions or in northern countries with low ambient temperatures.”
HP Newquist, Artificial Intelligence Historian and Author
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By investing in these alternative cooling solutions, AI companies can help mitigate their impact on water supplies and contribute to more sustainable technology practices.

The Fire Line: AI Water Usage and Wildfire Management

Current wildfires are exacerbated by the region’s ongoing drought, placing a strain on the state’s water supply. By reducing AI usage, residents can help free up water resources needed to combat these devastating fires.

“With California already experiencing an ongoing drought, the water necessary to fight these fires is further straining the state’s water supply. Water is a finite resource, and cutting back on AI use will have direct impacts on the state’s water availability and ability to respond to this climate disaster.”
Mia Montoya Hammersley, Assistant Professor, Environmental Law, Vermont Law and Graduate School
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As AI continues to permeate our daily lives, it is essential to recognise the hidden environmental costs associated with these technologies. By taking proactive steps to minimise our AI water footprint, we can help preserve valuable resources and support wildfire management efforts in major cities.

Wrapping Up: The Future of AI and Water Conservation

The connection between ChatGPT, water usage, and wildfire management serves as a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of technology and the environment. As AI continues to evolve, it is crucial for both companies and consumers to prioritise sustainable practices and invest in alternative cooling solutions.

By doing so, we can help minimise the environmental impact of AI and ensure that valuable water resources are allocated where they are needed most.

Comment and Share:

Have you ever considered the water footprint of your AI usage? How do you think we can encourage more sustainable technology practices? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe for updates on AI and AGI developments here. Let’s foster a community of mindful tech enthusiasts, working together to promote a more sustainable future!

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