**AI Models Get Smarter, California Tightens Regulations**

OpenAI has unveiled its latest AI model, dubbed "Strawberry," which promises to handle complex queries and deliver more thoughtful responses. This advancement is part of the new OpenAI o1 series, designed to mimic human-like problem-solving.

Meanwhile, California lawmakers are pushing forward with AI-related bills, including Assembly Bill 1836 and Senate Bill (SB)-1047. SB-1047, in particular, aims to enforce stringent safety protocols on major AI developers like OpenAI, Google, and Microsoft. Critics argue these regulations could stifle innovation, especially for smaller developers. Governor Gavin Newsom's decision on the bill is eagerly awaited.