AI News, February 6th, 2025

Here are three notable AI technology developments from February 6, 2025:

1. EU Advances Comprehensive AI Regulation:
   • The European Union is progressing with its extensive AI regulatory framework, known as the AI Act, which is considered the world's most comprehensive set of rules governing artificial intelligence. The legislation aims to address various aspects of AI deployment, including ethical considerations, transparency, and accountability. However, it has faced criticism from major U.S. tech companies, such as Meta, which argue that the regulations could stifle innovation and competitiveness. In response, former President Donald Trump has threatened retaliatory measures against the EU if the regulations are implemented in their current form. ft.com
2. Russia's Sberbank Plans Joint AI Research with China Following DeepSeek's Breakthrough:
   • Sberbank, Russia's largest bank, has announced plans to collaborate with Chinese researchers on artificial intelligence projects. This initiative follows the significant advancements by China's DeepSeek, which developed a powerful AI model at a lower cost compared to U.S. counterparts. Alexander Vedyakhin, Sberbank's First Deputy CEO, stated that the bank's scientists will work alongside Chinese researchers to further innovate in the AI sector. reuters.com
3. DeepSeek's Energy-Efficient AI Model Impacts Power and Tech Sectors:
   • Chinese AI startup DeepSeek has introduced a generative AI model that operates with significantly lower energy consumption than its American counterparts. This development has raised concerns among power companies about potential overinvestment in new power plants, as the anticipated energy demands of AI may be lower than expected. While immediate data center investments are unlikely to be affected due to existing contracts, long-term infrastructure plans may be reevaluated. Despite these concerns, major power and tech companies, including Constellation Energy, Vistra, Meta Platforms, and Microsoft, continue to plan substantial investments in AI development and supporting power infrastructure.