Technology
The illusion of thinking': Apple research finds AI models collapse and give up with hard puzzles
New research from Apple has revealed significant limitations in advanced artificial intelligence models known as large reasoning models (LRMs). According to a paper published just before Apple’s WWDC 2025 event, LRMs—including models from OpenAI, DeepSeek, Anthropic, and Google—demonstrate a “complete accuracy collapse” when faced with highly complex logic puzzles such as the Tower of Hanoi and river-crossing problems. While these models perform well on medium-difficulty tasks, their accuracy drops sharply as complexity increases, ultimately failing to solve the hardest problems. Notably, the study found that as the difficulty rises, LRMs paradoxically reduce their reasoning effort, even when provided with the correct algorithm to solve the puzzle. The findings challenge the prevailing optimism around artificial general intelligence (AGI), suggesting that current AI models may not be as close to human-level reasoning as previously thought.
This research is highly relevant for the global TMT sector, as it highlights fundamental scaling limitations in the current generation of AI models. The results suggest that, despite rapid advances in AI capabilities for tasks like coding and mathematics, there remain significant barriers to achieving generalisable reasoning and true AGI. For technology companies, investors, and policymakers, these findings underscore the need for continued research and caution in deploying AI for complex problem-solving. In Colombia and Latin America, where AI adoption is accelerating across industries, understanding these limitations is crucial for setting realistic expectations, guiding regulatory frameworks, and informing investment in AI-driven innovation. The study also reinforces the importance of transparency and rigorous evaluation in the development and deployment of AI technologies.
Source: Mashable, The Guardian
Reddit sues AI company Anthropic for allegedly 'scraping' user comments to train chatbot Claude
Social media platform Reddit has filed a lawsuit against artificial intelligence company Anthropic, alleging that Anthropic illegally "scraped" millions of user comments to train its chatbot, Claude. According to Reddit, Anthropic used automated bots to access Reddit’s content despite explicit requests not to do so, and trained its AI on personal data from Reddit users without obtaining their consent. The lawsuit, filed in California Superior Court in San Francisco, does not allege copyright infringement but instead focuses on breach of Reddit’s terms of use and claims of unfair competition. Anthropic has denied the allegations and stated it will defend itself vigorously.
This case is significant for the TMT sector as it highlights the growing legal and ethical challenges surrounding the use of publicly available online content for AI training. The dispute underscores the importance of clear licensing agreements and user consent in the development of large language models. For global and Colombian TMT companies, the outcome could set important precedents regarding data usage, privacy, and the enforceability of platform terms against AI developers. It also reflects the increasing commercial value of user-generated content and the need for robust data governance frameworks as AI adoption accelerates.
Source: Yahoo News, The Guardian
Disney and Universal Sue AI Image Generator Midjourney for Copyright Infringement
Walt Disney and NBCUniversal have filed a landmark copyright lawsuit against Midjourney, a leading artificial intelligence image generator, in the United States District Court for the Central District of California. The studios allege that Midjourney used and distributed AI-generated images of iconic characters from franchises such as Star Wars, Frozen, The Simpsons, Shrek, and Despicable Me, without authorisation. According to the complaint, Midjourney trained its AI models by scraping the internet for copyrighted works, then allowed users to create and share images that closely replicate the studios’ intellectual property. Despite receiving cease-and-desist letters, Midjourney allegedly continued to release new versions of its service, generating even higher-quality infringing images. The studios are seeking a preliminary injunction to halt further infringement and are demanding unspecified damages.
This lawsuit marks the first major legal action by Hollywood studios against an AI company for copyright infringement, signalling a new phase in the ongoing debate over generative AI and intellectual property rights. For the TMT sector, the case highlights the growing legal risks associated with the use of copyrighted content in AI training and the urgent need for clear regulatory frameworks. The outcome could set significant precedents for how AI companies operate, particularly regarding the use of protected works in model training and content generation. In Colombia and Latin America, where the adoption of AI technologies is accelerating, this case underscores the importance of robust copyright enforcement and may influence local regulatory discussions on AI, digital content, and creative industries.
Source: Reuters, CNBC, The New York Times, Variety
WhatsApp Introduces Ads and Subscriptions, Marking a Major Shift in Monetization Strategy
On 16 June 2025, Meta announced that WhatsApp will begin displaying advertisements within its app for the first time, ending a decade-long policy of ad-free messaging. The ads will be limited to the "Updates" tab, which is used by around 1.5 billion people daily, and will not appear in private chats or personal messages. WhatsApp will use basic user data such as location, language, and interaction with ads to target promotions, but will not access message content or contact lists. In addition to ads, WhatsApp is launching paid monthly subscriptions for content creators and allowing businesses and channel administrators to promote their channels and charge for exclusive content. Meta emphasized that personal messages, calls, and statuses will remain end-to-end encrypted, and that users who link their WhatsApp account to Facebook or Instagram may see more personalized ads.
This move represents a significant transformation for WhatsApp, aligning it more closely with Meta’s broader monetization strategies seen on Facebook and Instagram. For the global TMT sector, the introduction of ads and subscriptions on WhatsApp opens a new revenue stream in the messaging app market, which has traditionally resisted commercialization. The decision is particularly relevant in markets where WhatsApp is dominant, such as India, Brazil, and much of Latin America, including Colombia. While Meta assures users that privacy will be maintained, the use of user data for ad targeting and the gradual integration of monetization features may raise concerns about data protection and user trust, especially in regions with strict privacy regulations. For Colombia, where WhatsApp is a primary communication tool, this development could influence digital advertising trends, business engagement strategies, and regulatory scrutiny regarding data privacy and consumer protection.
Source: The New York Times, El País, CNBC, BBC
Anthropic Wins Major Fair Use Victory for AI, but Faces Trial over Pirated Books
On 24 June 2025, Judge William Alsup of the Northern District of California ruled in favor of Anthropic in a landmark AI copyright case, determining that training its AI models on legally purchased and digitized physical books constitutes fair use. The decision is limited to books that Anthropic lawfully acquired and digitized for the purpose of training its large language models (LLMs). However, the judge also ordered that Anthropic must face a separate trial regarding the alleged use and storage of millions of pirated books, which is not considered fair use. The ruling does not address whether the outputs generated by AI models infringe copyright, an issue pending in other cases.
This decision marks a significant precedent for the AI industry, as it is the first time a court has explicitly recognized the fair use defense for training AI models on lawfully purchased books. The ruling may influence how future courts approach copyright claims related to AI training data, providing some legal clarity for companies developing generative AI. However, the court’s distinction between lawfully acquired and pirated materials underscores the ongoing legal risks for AI developers who use unauthorized content. For the TMT sector globally, and particularly in Colombia, this case highlights the importance of robust compliance with intellectual property laws when sourcing training data for AI. As Colombia advances its own AI regulatory framework, the outcome of such cases will be relevant for local companies and policymakers seeking to balance innovation with copyright protection.
Source: The Verge
ChatGPT May Be Eroding Critical Thinking Skills, According to a New MIT Study
A new study from MIT’s Media Lab has raised concerns about the impact of generative AI tools like ChatGPT on users’ critical thinking abilities. The research involved 54 participants aged 18 to 39, divided into three groups tasked with writing SAT-style essays using either ChatGPT, Google Search, or no digital assistance. Brain activity was monitored via EEG, and results showed that the ChatGPT group exhibited the lowest levels of neural engagement and underperformed at neural, linguistic, and behavioural levels. Over time, these users became increasingly reliant on copy-paste functions, with their essays lacking originality and depth. The study suggests that frequent use of large language models (LLMs) for academic tasks may hinder learning and memory integration, especially among younger users. Although the study has not yet been peer-reviewed and has a limited sample size, the authors published the findings early to highlight potential risks as AI tools become more prevalent in education.
For the TMT sector, this research underscores the growing debate around the educational and cognitive impacts of generative AI. As AI adoption accelerates in schools and workplaces, there is a need for careful consideration of how these tools are integrated into learning environments. The findings may prompt policymakers and educational institutions to develop guidelines or regulations to ensure that AI supports, rather than undermines, critical thinking and creativity. In Colombia and Latin America, where digital transformation in education is advancing rapidly, the study highlights the importance of balancing technological innovation with the preservation of essential cognitive skills. The results also suggest that companies developing or deploying AI in educational contexts should prioritise responsible use and ongoing assessment of long-term impacts.
Source: Time
Privacy and Cybersecurity
Open Finance Regulation Advances in Colombia: New Draft Decree Open for Comments
The Colombian Financial Regulation Unit (URF) has released a new draft decree for public comment, aiming to establish a mandatory Open Finance System in the country. The draft, available for feedback until July 4, proposes a transition from a voluntary to a compulsory framework, requiring both public and private financial entities to provide standardized access to financial data. The initiative seeks to promote financial inclusion, competition, innovation, and consumer empowerment by enabling secure and transparent data sharing across the financial sector.
For the TMT sector, this regulatory development marks a significant step toward digital transformation in Colombia’s financial ecosystem. The implementation of a mandatory Open Finance system is expected to foster new business models, enhance interoperability, and create opportunities for fintechs and technology providers. It also aligns Colombia with global trends in open banking and data-driven financial services, positioning the country as a regional leader in financial innovation. Stakeholders are encouraged to participate in the consultation process to help shape a robust and inclusive regulatory framework.
Source: URF Colombia, Proyecto de Decreto sobre el Sistema de Finanzas Abiertas Obligatorio, junio de 2025
Colombian Constitutional Court Orders Removal of Surveillance Cameras in Classrooms, Strengthening Data Protection Standards
On May 12, 2025, the Colombian Constitutional Court issued ruling T-170/2025, ordering the removal of surveillance cameras installed in classrooms at the SENA training center in Girardot. The Court found that the installation and operation of these cameras violated fundamental rights, particularly the right to habeas data (personal data protection) and privacy, as well as the freedoms of expression, teaching, and conscience. The decision established that any implementation of video surveillance systems in educational environments must comply with strict data protection requirements, including obtaining prior, express, and informed consent from data subjects, providing visible notices, implementing clear data processing policies, and ensuring robust security measures.
This ruling sets a significant precedent for the TMT sector in Colombia, reinforcing the importance of compliance with personal data protection regulations, especially in environments where sensitive information is collected, such as educational institutions. The Court’s decision highlights that video surveillance systems must be proportionate, necessary, and accompanied by transparent data processing practices. For the TMT industry, this underscores the need for rigorous data governance, privacy-by-design approaches, and stakeholder engagement when deploying monitoring technologies. The judgment also signals to companies and public entities that failure to comply with data protection standards can result in legal sanctions and reputational risks. The emphasis on the rights to freedom of expression and teaching further illustrates the delicate balance between security and fundamental rights in digital environments, a topic of growing relevance both in Colombia and globally.
Source: Corte Constitucional de Colombia, Sentencia T-170 de 2025
Telecomms
Constitutional Court of Colombia Rules on "Zero Rating": Segmented Offers by Internet Providers Declared Unconstitutional
The Constitutional Court of Colombia has declared unconstitutional a provision in Article 56 of Law 1450 of 2011 that allowed internet service providers to make segmented offers based on user profiles or market segments—commonly known as "zero rating"—where certain applications or websites could be accessed without consuming data from the user's plan. In its decision issued on May 29, 2025, the Court found that this practice violates fundamental rights such as freedom of expression, informational pluralism, and the principle of net neutrality. The ruling establishes that all users must be able to freely and without interference choose which content, platforms, applications, and services they wish to access online, and that commercial offers must not arbitrarily favor certain content or services.
The Court emphasized that net neutrality is a fundamental pillar for protecting freedom of expression and pluralism in the digital environment. The decision highlights that commercial practices like zero rating can distort equal access to information, limit user choice, and foster market concentration in favor of large platforms, ultimately undermining democratic debate and innovation. While the Court acknowledged the importance of reducing the digital divide, it concluded that this objective cannot justify restricting fundamental rights or offering only partial internet access to vulnerable populations. The ruling provides a one-year transition period for the market and regulators to adapt to the new legal framework, encouraging the development of alternative commercial offers that respect net neutrality and user rights. The decision is still to be issued.
For the TMT sector, this decision represents a landmark regulatory shift in Colombia, aligning the country with international standards on net neutrality and digital rights. It obliges operators to treat all internet traffic equally and prohibits offers that privilege specific content or applications. The ruling will require companies to redesign their mobile data plans and explore new ways to compete and add value without infringing on user rights. The decision also sets an important precedent for regulatory debates in other Latin American countries, reinforcing the need for transparent, non-discriminatory practices in the telecommunications market and highlighting the growing relevance of digital rights in the region.
Source: Corte Constitucional de Colombia, Resumen Sentencia C-206/25
New Simplified CRC Framework
The Communications Regulatory Commission (CRC) issued Resolution 7811 of 2025, which introduces a new regulatory simplification for the communications sector in Colombia.
This reform results from a comprehensive review of the regulatory framework set out in Resolution CRC 5050 of 2016, incorporating industry feedback and criteria such as technological evolution, regulatory duplication, and compliance costs.
As a result, more than 90 articles were amended or repealed to improve clarity, efficiency, and applicability. Key changes include the elimination of outdated obligations, optimization of regulatory language, and reduced administrative burdens for service providers—all aligned with the CRC’s commitment to regulatory improvement and adaptability to market and technological evolution.
CRC Reprimands Canal Uno and Telecafé for Broadcasting Alcoholic Beverage Advertising During Family Viewing Hours
The Communications Regulation Commission (CRC), through its Audiovisual Content Session and in the exercise of its inspection, surveillance, and control functions, conducted administrative sanctioning investigations against television operators Canal Uno (Sociedad PLURAL COMUNICACIONES S.A.S.) and Telecafé for broadcasting alcoholic beverage advertising during family viewing hours—periods intended for minors.
Both proceedings were based on potential violations of Article 47 of Law 1098 of 2006 (Childhood and Adolescence Code), which prohibits the broadcast of alcoholic beverage advertising during hours suitable for minors, as well as Article 16.5.7.4 of CRC Resolution 5050 of 2016, which restricts both direct and indirect advertising of such beverages during these times.
In the case of Canal Uno, the CRC determined that the regulations were breached by airing alcoholic beverage advertising during family hours. After ensuring due process, including the presentation of arguments and evidence, the Commission concluded that the conduct met the criteria for administrative liability. However, since this was the first infraction of its kind, a reprimand was imposed.
Similarly, the investigation against Telecafé found that the regional channel violated legal and regulatory provisions by broadcasting alcoholic beverage advertising during family viewing hours. Following a technical, legal, and objective analysis of the evidence, the defense arguments were dismissed, and the existence of the infraction was confirmed, resulting in a reprimand as well. The CRC acknowledged Telecafé’s institutional efforts, such as the creation of technical committees and internal training sessions to strengthen regulatory compliance.
Both decisions reinforce the CRC’s commitment to protecting the rights of children and adolescents from inappropriate content and advertising in audiovisual media. For the TMT sector, these cases highlight the importance of strict compliance with regulatory standards regarding content and advertising, especially concerning the protection of minors. Television operators and digital platforms in Colombia must exercise proactive management and strict control over their programming and advertising practices to avoid regulatory sanctions and reputational risks.
Mobile Internet Traffic Multiplied by Over 100 Times Between 2012 and 2024
Between 2012 and 2024, mobile internet traffic in Colombia increased more than 100-fold, rising from 16 million to 1,627 million gigabytes. Despite this exponential growth, average revenue per user has not increased, even as the sector faces higher investment demands. The expansion has been driven by greater broadband access, widespread adoption of mobile devices, and the deployment of fiber optic networks. Currently, over 90% of mobile connections are 4G, and the rollout of 5G networks is underway, which will require further investment to ensure coverage, low latency, and increased capacity. However, the sector faces a paradox: higher traffic and investment needs, but stagnant profitability, highlighting structural challenges in the business model.
For the TMT sector, this situation underscores the urgent need to rethink incentive structures, compensation schemes, and shared infrastructure access to achieve balanced expansion and close digital gaps. The market is now defined by speed, network capacity, integrated digital services, and latency, rather than just coverage. Persistent regulatory barriers, lack of harmonized rules, and high deployment costs remain obstacles, especially for effective 5G implementation. In Colombia, mobile internet has become the main revenue source for the sector, but fixed internet continues to grow steadily. The challenge lies in generating value in an increasingly competitive digital environment, which requires modern infrastructure, agility, and diversification, as rising data traffic alone will not guarantee the sector’s sustainability.
Source: La República
MinTIC Files Charges Against Azteca Comunicaciones for Network Failures
The Ministry of Information and Communication Technologies (MinTIC) has filed charges against Azteca Comunicaciones Colombia S.A.S. for alleged failures in the management of its fiber optic network in the Chocó department and/or for not promptly addressing incidents affecting the network. The investigation was launched following reports of massive and prolonged voice and data service outages in April and May 2025, impacting users in 13 municipalities. These interruptions, caused by cuts in Azteca’s network, also affected other operators relying on this infrastructure. The administrative process is being conducted under the powers granted to MinTIC by Law 1341 of 2009. Azteca Comunicaciones has 15 business days to present its arguments, provide evidence, and exercise its right to defense.
This case highlights the critical importance of network reliability and quality standards in the telecommunications sector, especially in regions where connectivity is essential for social and economic development. The situation is further complicated by Azteca Comunicaciones’ recent announcement of a corporate reorganization process under Law 1116 of 2006, aimed at negotiating refinancing agreements and ensuring service continuity. For the TMT sector, this underscores the operational and financial challenges faced by infrastructure providers in Colombia, particularly in remote areas. It also emphasizes the need for robust regulatory oversight to guarantee service quality and the sustainability of investments in national connectivity projects.
Source: Portafolio
Media and Entertainment
CRC Sanctions RCN Televisión for Failing to Meet National Film Broadcast Quota
The Colombian Communications Regulation Commission (CRC) has imposed a financial penalty on RCN Televisión S.A. for failing to comply with its obligation to broadcast content that promotes Colombian cultural identity. This measure, taken as part of the CRC’s oversight and control functions in audiovisual content, responds to RCN’s repeated omission in airing national cinematographic works, as required by current regulations.
The investigation, led by the CRC’s Audiovisual Content Session, found that RCN Televisión S.A. did not broadcast any national films during 2022 and 2023, in violation of Article 16.4.8.3 of CRC Resolution 5050 of 2016, which mandates that at least 10% of films aired must be Colombian, relative to the total number of foreign productions. Based on RCN’s own quarterly reports showing 0% compliance, the CRC initiated a sanctioning administrative process in October 2024. After due process, RCN failed to provide evidence to exempt itself from responsibility. The CRC concluded that the violation was repeated and unjustified, constituting a breach of the regulatory regime. The fine amounts to 6,312 Tax Value Units (UVT) for 2025, equivalent to COP 314,331,288, and RCN may appeal the decision as per Law 1437 of 2011.
This case underscores the importance of regulatory compliance and the promotion of national cinema within the TMT sector. For the industry, the decision highlights the CRC’s commitment to ensuring a diverse, balanced, and high-quality television offering that reflects Colombia’s cultural identity. The enforcement of national content quotas is crucial for supporting local creative industries, fostering pluralism, and guaranteeing audiences access to representative audiovisual content. For Colombia, this action reinforces the role of public television in cultural development and the protection of democratic values through media pluralism
Source: CRC
Andean Court of Justice Clarifies Rules on Musical Synchronization in Audiovisual Works
In a recent preliminary interpretation (Case 228-IP-2023), the Andean Court of Justice analyzed the legal framework surrounding synchronization contracts for musical works in audiovisual productions. The Court identified two common contractual forms for authorizing synchronization: (i) commissioned works, where the audiovisual producer commissions the creation of a musical work specifically for inclusion in the audiovisual work; and (ii) license or authorization of use, where the producer seeks permission from the rights holder of a pre-existing musical work (and, if applicable, the phonogram) to synchronize it with the audiovisual work. This second form can take two modalities: a reproduction license, which authorizes the fixation of the musical work in the audiovisual work and allows the rights holder to demand royalties for each subsequent act of public communication; and a reproduction and public communication license, which authorizes both fixation and subsequent public communication, with a single pre-agreed payment covering all uses.
This decision is significant for the TMT sector as it clarifies the contractual and legal boundaries for the use of music in audiovisual content across Andean Community countries. By distinguishing between the types of licenses and the rights they confer, the ruling provides greater legal certainty for producers, rights holders, and collective management organizations. The Court also emphasized that the scope of rights transferred or authorized must be interpreted in light of the explicit and implicit terms of the contract, reinforcing the importance of clear contractual drafting. For Colombia and the region, this interpretation will impact negotiations, royalty structures, and the management of music rights in film, television, and digital media, supporting a more transparent and predictable environment for the creative industries.
Source: Tribunal de Justicia de la Comunidad Andina
Taylor Swift Buys Back Her Masters From Shamrock, Reclaiming Her First Six Albums
Taylor Swift has announced that she has regained ownership of her master recordings from Shamrock Capital, the private equity firm that acquired them from Scooter Braun’s Ithaca Holdings in 2020. The deal, reportedly valued at around $360 million, returns to Swift the rights to her first six albums, as well as related music videos, concert films, album art, and unreleased material. This acquisition follows years of public disputes over the ownership of her catalogue, which led Swift to re-record her early albums under the “Taylor’s Version” brand. Swift credited her fans’ support and the commercial success of her re-recordings and Eras Tour as key factors enabling her to buy back her music.
This development is highly significant for the global TMT sector, particularly in the music and entertainment industries. Swift’s successful campaign to reclaim her masters has reignited industry-wide debate about artists’ rights, copyright, and the traditional structure of recording contracts. Her actions have set a precedent, encouraging other artists to negotiate for greater control over their work and prompting record labels to reconsider contract terms. The case also highlights the growing influence of catalogue ownership in the era of streaming and private equity investment in music rights. For Colombia and Latin America, where the music industry is rapidly expanding and streaming dominates consumption, Swift’s experience underscores the importance of copyright awareness and fair contract negotiation for local artists and rights holders.
Source: Billboard, The Conversation
Sony Music Publishing Acquires Hipgnosis Songs Group
Sony Music Publishing has acquired Hipgnosis Songs Group (HSG), the publishing and administration arm of Recognition Music Group, previously known as Hipgnosis Songs Fund. The deal, whose terms were not disclosed, includes a catalogue of 4,400 copyrights and covers songs by artists such as Shawn Mendes, Panic! At the Disco, One Direction, Sabrina Carpenter, Alex Warren, and Teddy Swims. This acquisition follows a period of significant restructuring for Hipgnosis, including its rebranding to Recognition Music Group and the sale of its main fund to Blackstone in 2024. Notably, Recognition/Blackstone retains ownership of over 45,000 songs and recordings from major artists like the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Fleetwood Mac, Neil Young, Justin Bieber, and Shakira. Sony Music Publishing, the world’s largest music publisher, continues to expand its global catalogue, which now exceeds 6.6 million songs.
This acquisition is highly significant for the global TMT sector, particularly within the music and entertainment industries. The transaction underscores the ongoing trend of consolidation in music publishing, as major players seek to strengthen their catalogues and administration capabilities. The deal also reflects the increasing financialisation of music rights, with catalogues being treated as valuable assets by both industry leaders and investment funds. For Colombia and Latin America, where the music industry is experiencing rapid growth and streaming dominates consumption, the consolidation of catalogues by global giants like Sony may influence local rights management, royalty flows, and opportunities for regional songwriters. The move highlights the importance of robust copyright management and the strategic value of music publishing in the digital era.
Source: Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, Music Business Worldwide
Warner Bros. Discovery to Split into Two Public Companies by Next Year
Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) announced plans to split into two separate publicly traded companies by mid-2026. The media giant will divide its operations into a streaming and studios company—encompassing its film properties and the HBO Max streaming service—and a global networks company, which will include CNN, TNT Sports, and Discovery, among others. CEO David Zaslav will lead the streaming and studios entity, while current CFO Gunnar Wiedenfels will become CEO of the global networks business. The move follows industry trends as traditional pay-TV continues to lose ground to streaming and comes after a significant $9.1 billion write-down on WBD’s TV networks business in 2024. The company expects the split to provide each business with greater strategic focus and flexibility to compete in the rapidly evolving media landscape.
This restructuring is highly significant for the global TMT sector, reflecting the accelerating shift from traditional cable to streaming platforms. By separating its legacy TV networks from its streaming and film operations, WBD aims to optimise each business for profitability and growth, while also addressing the financial pressures of declining pay-TV revenues. The move mirrors similar strategies by other industry players, such as Comcast’s spin-off of its cable networks. For Colombia and Latin America, where streaming adoption is surging and traditional TV remains influential, this split could impact content distribution strategies, partnership opportunities, and the competitive landscape for both local and international media companies. The decision also signals ongoing consolidation and transformation in the global media industry, with potential implications for investment, content licensing, and consumer choice.
Source: CNBC