Tronc to Make Thousands of Videos Using Artificial Intelligence
Tribune Publishing Co. said it will soon start creating and publishing more than 2,000 videos a day using artificial intelligence software. Chairman Michael Ferro said the Chicago firm, which owns the Los Angeles Times and is soon to be renamed tronc, will produce the videos using machine learning technology developed by Patrick Soon-Shiong, chief executive of biotech firm Nantworks of Culver City, reports CNBC.
Spaces Inc. to Launch Attractions in China
Virtual reality startup Spaces Inc. of Santa Monica has created a joint venture with Chinese amusement-park operator Songcheng Performance Development Co. to launch virtual reality and mixed-reality attractions in theme parks across China, according to a press release. Spaces will provide the technology, produce content, and furnish tech-support services, while Songcheng will operate and promote the attractions.
SAG-AFTRA Asks State to Probe Stressful Vocal Work in Videogames
SAG-AFTRA is asking the state of California to investigate the videogame industry for allegedly permitting unsafe practices that damage performers’ vocal chords, such as “death screaming,” “creature voices,” and “combat yelling,” reports Variety. In a letter addressed to the California Occupational Health and Safety Administration, the union claimed that “long-term effects can lead to career-ending alteration of vocal quality or vocal cord paralysis.”
Peter Csathy Launches New Venture
Peter Csathy has stepped down from his role as chief executive of Manatt Digital Media to start a new venture called Creatv Media, an advisory and investment firm, according to a press release. The company’s investments will be focused on seed-stage rounds in technology and digital media companies.
Artificial Intelligence Startup Armorway Raises $2.5M
Artificial intelligence startup Armorway raised a $2.5 million seed round from Aristos Ventures as well as several angel investors, according to a press release. The company’s platform helps predict cyber-security threats by analyzing a variety of factors such as social media behavior.
Technology reporter Garrett Reim can be reached at [email protected]. Follow @garrettreim on Twitter for the latest in L.A. tech news.
