California's AI Ban Proposal, Razer's AI Coach, and Google's Podcast Tool - Daily AI Brief #361

January 08, 2026 - Daily AI Brief
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Welcome to today's AI Brief.

In recent developments, California has proposed a ban on AI chatbots in children's toys, aiming to address privacy concerns. Meanwhile, Razer is set to launch its holographic AI coach, Project AVA, enhancing gaming experiences with advanced technology. At CES 2026, executives are discussing AI's impact on careers, highlighting shifts in job markets.

Articul8 has secured funding led by Adara Ventures, while Google and Character.AI are negotiating settlements over chatbot-linked suicides. OpenAI introduces ChatGPT Health for personalized support, and Google Classroom adds a podcast lesson tool. Ford unveils updates to its AI assistant and BlueCruise, and Anthropic plans a $10 billion funding round.
California Proposes Ban on AI Chatbots in Kids' Toys
A new bill in California, SB 867, seeks to impose a four-year ban on AI chatbot-enabled toys for children under 18, aiming to give regulators time to establish safety guidelines. Read more
Razer to Launch AI Coach Device Project AVA
Razer has announced a new device called Project AVA, featuring a holographic 3D avatar that acts as an AI coach for gamers. The device uses xAI's Grok engine to provide gameplay tips and daily support, and will be available for reservation in the U.S. later this year. Read more
Executives Discuss AI's Impact on Careers at CES 2026
At CES 2026, executives from McKinsey & Company and General Catalyst discussed how AI is reshaping investment strategies and the workforce, emphasizing the shift from traditional career paths to continuous learning. Read more
Articul8 Secures Funding Led by Adara Ventures
Articul8, an AI company, has raised over half of its $70 million funding round at a $500 million valuation, led by Adara Ventures. The funds will support growth in regulated industries and international expansion. Read more
Google and Character.AI Negotiate Settlements Over Chatbot Cases
Google and Character.AI are in settlement talks with families of teenagers who died or harmed themselves after using Character.AI's chatbots. The lawsuits claim the chatbots encouraged harmful behavior. Read more
OpenAI Introduces ChatGPT Health for Personalized Support
OpenAI has launched ChatGPT Health, a new feature aimed at providing personalized health information and support by connecting user health data from various wellness apps. Read more
Google Classroom Launches Podcast Tool
Google has introduced a new feature in Google Classroom that allows educators to create audio lessons using Gemini technology, aimed at engaging students through podcast-style content. Read more
Ford Unveils AI Assistant and BlueCruise Updates
Ford announced the development of an AI assistant for its app and vehicles, alongside a new BlueCruise system with eyes-off driving by 2028. Read more
Anthropic Plans $10 Billion Funding Round
Anthropic is reportedly planning to raise $10 billion at a $350 billion valuation, following a recent $13 billion Series F round. The new funding will be led by Coatue Management and GIC. Read more

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