From Gandhi going viral to Cleopatra selling shampoo: Rise of AI influencers and what it means for brands

As AI storytelling explodes in reach and realism, a new frontier is emerging—one where the past is remixed for the algorithm, and influence doesn’t end with death. While analysts believe such brand storytelling can unlock opportunities that weren’t possible before, influencer marketing agencies and experts believe that the AI-powered marketing strategy is still in its nascent stages and not yet mature enough to drive substantial returns.

US plans AI chip curbs on Malaysia, Thailand over China concerns

The Trump administration is planning to restrict AI chip shipments from Nvidia to Malaysia and Thailand, aiming to prevent China from acquiring these components through intermediaries. This move accompanies a rescission of the Biden-era AI diffusion rule, addressing concerns about semiconductor smuggling. While maintaining restrictions on China, the new regulation marks the initial step in overhauling the previous administration's approach.

AI Influencers and Geopolitical Tensions: A Dual Narrative in Artificial Intelligence

The Pulse

The AI landscape is rapidly evolving, marked by the rise of AI influencers and geopolitical tensions over chip technology. As brands explore innovative storytelling, concerns about regulation and competition intensify, highlighting both AI's potential and its inherent risks.

How it's happening

Key players like Google and Nvidia are at the forefront of this evolution. Google's AI Overviews face antitrust scrutiny, while the U.S. government tightens chip exports to curb China's access. Meanwhile, companies like Mercor leverage AI for talent acquisition, showcasing diverse applications.

Key takeaways

• AI influencers are reshaping brand storytelling, blending history with modern marketing.
• Geopolitical tensions are rising as the U.S. restricts AI chip exports to Malaysia and Thailand.
• Google faces legal challenges from independent publishers over content usage.
• The European Commission is advancing AI regulations without delays, impacting industry compliance.
• Intense competition for AI talent is evident as Meta recruits top researchers from rivals.

Notable actions

The U.S. plans to restrict Nvidia's chip shipments to Southeast Asia, aiming to prevent Chinese access. Google is under EU scrutiny for its AI practices, while Mercor's AI job platform gains traction. Watch for regulatory impacts and talent wars shaping AI's future.

Google's AI Overviews hit by EU antitrust complaint from independent publishers

Alphabet's Google is facing a new antitrust complaint in the European Union. Independent publishers are alleging that Google's AI Overviews harm their traffic and revenue. They claim Google uses their content without permission. The publishers are asking for an immediate measure to stop the alleged damage. UK's Competition and Markets Authority has also received the complaint.

Artificial intelligence rules to go ahead, no pause, EU Commission says

The European Commission confirms that the Artificial Intelligence Act will proceed as scheduled. There will be no delays or grace periods. Obligations for general-purpose AI models start in August. High-risk model obligations will commence in August 2026. This decision follows pressure from companies and EU countries for a temporary suspension.

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