Amid growing concerns about AI around the world, it can be refreshing to see examples of the technology enriching lives.
That's certainly the case with a new AI tool created with the help of researchers from the UAE that allows scientists to simulate human cells and their response to drugs.
This is the future we were promised many years ago when conversations about AI were just starting to percolate. These developments don't negate the concerns about AI, but they give tremendous perspective.
The big story
UAE helps close the AI gap
In brief | The chief executive of the Gates Foundation, one of the world's most influential philanthropic organisations, praised the UAE's approach to AI as well as its affinity for agricultural innovation.
Chief executive Mark Suzman said that, for many years, the UAE has sought to ensure that AI is a global equaliser.
His comments came as the Gates Foundation released a report warning that if AI was not rolled out equitably throughout the world, it could create far more disparity in terms of global health, education access and upward mobility.
Why it matters | Even the most ardent critics of AI acknowledge that the technology is incredibly powerful.
If distributed fairly, and if developed in a way that respects things like intellectual property while also prioritising humans, AI could enhance lives in unprecedented ways.
Conversely, as the Gates Foundation points out, there's also the potential for it to widen the chasm between the haves and the have-nots.
Quoted | “Some people have never been more worried. Others have never been so excited. I understand where both are coming from”
– Bill Gates' preamble to 2026 Make This Matter Goalkeepers report on AI
Future in focus
• Wearable fitness | Whoop sees 'strong sales growth' from women in the Middle East
• Harsh reaction | Users hit back at Instagram's Adam Mosseri after he promotes Meta One
• Jensen's return | Nvidia's GTC will soon take place in Washington amid a very different political climate
• Remote work | Panama surgeon removes brain blood clot from patient 200km away
Predicting the future: Signal or noise?
British train stations are testing technology that can transmit live translations of platform announcements to passengers’ headphones using the language of their choice.
This is a signal: In keeping with the theme of the introduction of this week's newsletter, translation technology is another heavily touted idea that actually lives up to lofty promises.
Most who have experienced the latest wave of translation technology, often enhanced and more capable than ever because of AI, come away with a sense of awe that quickly makes us wonder how we ever lived without it. Anything that helps us better understand each other has to be a good thing.
In case you missed it
• Tokyo Game Show 2026 offers glimpse of gaming’s next chapter
• Iran accused of using spyware to snoop on dissidents overseas
• Trump blasts AI critics but may meet tech leaders amid calls for more regulation
• OpenAI rules out 2026 IPO as Sam Altman flags AI safety risks
• How far has AI slop spread?
The National produces a variety of newsletters across an array of subjects. You can sign up here.
