This week, Google shoved various capabilities from Gemini, its AI tool, into Workspaces for Business and Enterprise customers, including associated Gmail accounts. You might now see buttons for “Summarize this email,” which when clicked will provide a bullet point list of what the email (allegedly) says and, in email threads, peoples’ sentiment towards it in their replies. There’s also a button in the top right that brings up a Gemini prompt bar, and a couple of ways Gemini offers to help. “Show unread emails from today,” and “show unread emails from this week,” are two I’m looking at right now.

Many people are going to love this. Others are going to want to run away from it as quickly as possible. Many people—incluing us—are already furious that they were automatically opted into it. Turns out, disabling it isn’t straightforward, as I found out why I tried to opt 404 Media out of it.

“Today we announced that we’re including the best of Google AI in Workspace Business and Enterprise plans without the need to purchase an add-on,” Google wrote in a blog post on Wednesday. 

The “Summarize this email” button took me by surprise. I opened my Gmail iOS app and it was just there. When I asked a Google spokesperson if Google gave clients a heads up this was coming, they provided me with a couple of links (including that one above), both of which were published Wednesday. So, no not really.

I tried out the email summarize feature on a non-sensitive email Emanuel had just forwarded me. It was an obvious scam email, with someone pretending to be from the family of Bashar Al-Assad and who said they could make us a lot of money. Emanuel forwarded me the email and joked “sounds good.”

Gemini’s summary said “Mohammed Karzoon, a former member of the Syrian President al-Assad’s cabinet, reaches out to Emanuel Maiberg to discuss potential investment portfolios.” The second bullet point read “Emanuel Maiberg expresses interest in the proposition.” Gemini, to little surprise, did not detect that Emanuel was being heavily sarcastic, a beautifully human act.

I then tried to opt us out of these sorts of Gemini features. I logged into Google Workspace, clicked the “Generative AI” drop down menu on the left, then clicked “Gemini app.” I changed the service status to “OFF for everyone.”

Nope, that’s wrong. The Google spokesperson told me that button referred to gemini.google.com, which is the Gemini app, not its integration with Workspace. I also tried in another section called “Gemini for Workspace” which sounded promising but that wasn’t helpful either.

I actually had to go to account, account settings, and “Smart features and personalization” where an administrator can set a default value for users. The spokesperson clarified that individual end users can go turn it off themselves in their own Gmail settings. They pointed to these instructions where users disable “smart features.” 

But it looks like it’s all or nothing. You can’t turn off just the new Gemini stuff without also disabling things like Gmail nudging you about an email you received a few days ago, or automatic filtering when Gmail puts emails into primary, social, and promotion tabs, which are features that Gmail has had for years and which many users are probably used to.

On iOS, you go to settings, data privacy, then turn off “Smart features and personalization.” A warning then says you’re about to turn off all the other stuff too that I mentioned above and much more. On Android, you go to settings, general, and then “Google Workspace smart features.”

Turning these off doesn’t actually get rid of the Gemini button at the top right of the inbox. It just means when you do click it (maybe by accident because it’s right next to the button to switch to a different inbox), it’ll prompt you to once again turn on smart features. It does get rid of the summarize this email button, though.

My first thought when I saw the “Summarize this email” button was, oh god, people are going to be submitting all sorts of sensitive, confidential business information into Gemini. We’ve already seen that with ChatGPT, and organizations have to write policies to stop employees doing it. And now you’re making that process one click, directly in the inbox? In its Privacy Hub page, Google says “Your content is not used for any other customers. Your content is not human reviewed or used for Generative AI model training outside your domain without permission.” I do not know if I have given permission or not, though, that’s part of the problem.

“You’ll see these end user settings will become even clearer and easier for people to use in the coming days as we’re rolling out updates (happening now) with language that’s specific to Gemini in Workspace features,” the spokesperson told me.

I hope so.

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella is going all-in on AI. Earlier this week, he announced that the company’s developer division (which makes developer tools and compilers) has been folded into a new unit called CoreAI. “Thirty years of change is being compressed into three years!” [Microsoft]

Unfortunately, generative confabulation machines remain difficult to secure against data leaks. Microsoft already has problems with Copilot Studio leaking enterprise data and Recall storing sensitive data.

Is there hope? Twenty-six Microsoft AI Red Team researchers tested more than 100 Microsoft AI products. Their verdict? Probably not. [arXiv; Register]

In their paper “Lessons from red-teaming 100 generative AI products,” the authors conclude that simple attacks work best — you don’t need to break out the computer science:

Real attackers don’t compute gradients, they prompt engineer … “basic” techniques often work just as well as, and sometimes better than, gradient-based methods.

Their takeaway: “LLMs amplify existing security risks and introduce new ones.”

Various mitigations exist — but the fundamental limitations of LLMs mean that mitigations can’t eliminate security risks, particularly if a human has leaked information already:

… one must assume that if an LLM is supplied with untrusted input, it will produce arbitrary output. When that input includes private information, one must also assume that the model will output private information.

They find that adversarial attacks on AI vision systems are also simple and cheap.

As long as machine learning and generative AI is being deployed in production systems, we predict a heartwarmingly lucrative job market in AI security.

Musikalisch nicht ganz so mein Ding, filmisch aber wieder ein mal mehr ganz großes Kino.

(Direktlink, via Nag on the Lake)

Every so often, a designer emerges on the scene with a fresh perspective on how form and function can dance together. Ilan Rubin, however, is no newcomer. The photographer-turned-designer has honed his eye over decades, shooting editorials and commercial photography for an A-list roster including Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue, Knoll, and Barneys. Now, he brings his discerning eye from behind the lens to the world of design, crafting thoughtful, modern objects that marry utility with poetic form under his new brand, ilan.

Rubin’s inaugural collection of home accessories is as aesthetically striking as it is highly functional. He’s been remarked for having “a gift for illuminating the beauty in utility” and the ability “to transform the everyday into something extraordinary.” Each piece in the collection embodies this ethos, delivering efficient solutions that don’t skimp on style.

One standout object borrows from Rubin’s photography roots: the apple box, a multi-functional staple of studio life. Revamped for the home in delightful colorways, it transforms into a side table, computer table, bedside nightstand, seat, or step stool.

In the kitchen, Rubin reimagines the traditional knife rack by integrating an adjustable magnetic spice shelf and two magnetic hooks. Knives mount securely alongside your favorite seasoning jars or go-to kitchen shears, blending practicality with streamlined design.

Even the humble paper towel holder gets an upgrade with a touch of color that complements the timeless beauty of walnut wood. A magnetic top secures the roll in place, while the adjustable magnetic stopper arm ensures a snug, wobble-free fit.

For the entryway, Rubin’s control panel provides a stylish and efficient drop zone for essentials like bags, keys, dog leashes, and phones, helping to keep life effortlessly organized. While the large wall hook is fixed, the magnetized mirror, four smaller hooks, and shelf with stopper can be rearranged to suit your needs.

And for the home or office, the versatile magnetic board serves as a clipboard, display, or whiteboard, making it an elegant hub for notes and reminders. Write directly on the metal surface with a dry-erase pen, or use the magnetized wooden rod to secure up to 20 sheets of paper.

Every ilan object uses FSC-certified solid walnut, underscoring Rubin’s commitment to sustainability – a natural extension of his thoughtful approach to design.

With ilan, Rubin reimagines our relationship with the everyday. His collection invites us to discover beauty in utility and joy in simplicity, transforming overlooked moments into small joys that elevate our life.

To learn more about Ilan Rubin’s new brand ilan, visit ilanilan.design.

Simplicity is often thought to be one of the most elusive design traits, a product of a vast amount of trial and error until the least does the most. The Rider Range by Objects for Thought embodies this ideal, combining mechanical knowledge with minimalist design to create a cohesive lighting collection that can live comfortably in any interior. The Rider Range features wall lamp, table lamp, and sconce mounting options, as well as floor lamps for a balanced and elegant collection.

Prose Large – Table Lamp

Like switchboards or control panels over a century ago, metrics of the human body were considered to create signals, sounds and colors that would make operations easier for technicians across all industries. These design styles resurfaced again in Moog synths and Roland drum machines first released in the 1960s, providing easy ways to delineate synthetic sounds and create loops. The soft glow and regularity of the Rider Range recall these style cues in a way that is completely fresh. Upending the scale and dimensions of technology most are familiar with, and pairing these notions with unconventional lighting materials such as wood, allows the collection to stand on its own as a brilliant example of simplistic elegance, adding a modern accent to the floor, wall, or table.

Prose Small – Table Lamp

Expertly machined, the Prose light comes in Small and Large, with a wall mounting option for those that don’t need their lighting hardwired. Made from cast metals, woods, and glass, the Prose fixtures feature a flat top glass shade situated within the ringed base. Also available in outdoor and ceiling mount variations, choose from a large array of finishes for a look that will suit any preexisting style with ease.

Prose Large – Wall Lamp

Prose Small

Rider Double

The Rider Range, with glass domes that rest within a thin, deep aluminum base, is perfect for use in residential or commercial spaces alike. This piece is available in Single, Double, Triple, and Quad variants, as well as a cheeky Nude version, the inviting aesthetic that Objects for Thought brings here is delivered in a compact and clever way. The glass domes rest within a thin, deep aluminum base

Rider Double

Rider Double

Rider Single

Rider Double

Rider Triple

Rider Quad

Rider Quad

Sequence Lamp

The Sequence Lamp is a showstopper, rows of round bulbs extending upward on a raw aluminum base designed to reflect some of the warm, glowing light the repetitive orbs throw off. The soft white light is reminiscent of the sun peeking out after a long night out, and the untreated black backdrop resembles the industrial interior of a club, picking up wear naturally over time.

Sequence Lamp

Objects for Thought is born from the minds of Jay Jermyn and CJ Anderson, Australian designers and artists earnestly exploring the collaborations that heighten and define the brand. “Bound by intuition, we operate with the freedom to create what may look different, but feel right, through the use of industrial shapes, materiality, and a refined vision,” they explain, leaning in to the holistic nature of their craft. Offering a broad range of lighting, some of which is rated for outdoor use, we’re excited to see what’s next.

Objects for Thought

To learn more about the full Rider Range by Objects for Thought, visit of-t.com.

From an early age Amanda Leigh had an affinity for art, and she was intrigued by residences of various styles. She was also a volunteer for the Appalachia Service Project, which provides home repairs and replacements for income-eligible families. Yet no matter what other interests captured her attention, she always found her way back to A&D.

A New York native, Leigh once owned a restaurant in the city, but soon realized that she had a greater connection to the design aspect of owning a restaurant than she did to the industry as a whole. It was when she completed a project from start to finish that Leigh realized what her true calling was. “From the point where I did my first restoration and remodel, independent from any clients’ decisions or outside bias, I knew it was something I wanted to do forever,” she says.

Taylor Hahn + Amanda Leigh of House of Rolison \\\ Photo: Jenna Burke

In 2022, Leigh founded the Los Angeles-based House of Rolison with Taylor Hahn, her partner in business and life. A design and development firm, the duo finds forgotten houses and restores each one to its intended beauty. They are known for creating spaces that push the boundaries of innovation and capture the essence of upscale living. Leigh celebrates her love of unexpected and bespoke living, and some of her favorites are decommissioned firehouses – like the one owned by Spike Lee.

As managing partners, Leigh and Hahn mix vintage elements with contemporary pieces that feel curated and sophisticated. They constantly strive to impart a signature luxury aesthetic that cannot be recreated elsewhere.

Whether Leigh is reimagining a Spanish Colonial property or a bungalow, she credits Hahn with providing unparalleled support that has shaped how she approaches her work. “Taylor inspires me, and has changed my outlook creatively,” Leigh notes. “Our company would not be what it is if it wasn’t for our collaborative differences and our love as a whole.”

Today, Amanda Leigh joins us for Friday Five!

Fuller Building The Flatiron, New York, 1910 by Irving Underhill \\\ Retrieved from the Library of Congress

1. The Flatiron Building

The Flatiron building is an incredible piece of New York City architecture. I have spent most of my adult life in New York City, and couldn’t help but be drawn to the history of this beauty. Veronica Mainetti of Sorgente group has bought back the building in pieces to restore it to residential use and I couldn’t be happier about this endeavor!

Photo: Courtesy of Addison

2. Addison in San Diego

Last January we took a trip to the Grand Del Mar in San Diego, to celebrate Taylor’s birthday, where we made a point to check out the beautiful restaurant, Addison. I was blown away by the flavors, thoughtful choreography and their chef William Bradley is fantastic. He is a designer in his own right, and his canvas just happens to be edible. He invited us to tour us through his newly renovated kitchen and who knew Dekton could look so gorgeous.

Ross Farm \\\ Photo: Lachlan Moore, courtesy of Studio Moore

3. Staircases

I have always been fascinated by staircases. They can have such a whimsical presence and the dance between engineering and design is so beautiful and diverse. Even something so industrial with such rigid materials like the one in this photo can have such a delicate nature.

Photo: Courtesy of Konstruction Group Inc.

4. Framing

Framing is an art, and master framers and carpenters are undervalued. How captivating are the details of this groin vault? The amount of time it takes to block through all those details is such a strong reminder to look around and take more in.

Photo: Courtesy of Sotheby’s

5. 427 Cobra

I grew up tinkering with cars and motorcycles and have developed a strong fascination with how they work. The 427 Cobra is one of the most recognizable and iconic cars in American history. I have such an affinity for this vehicle, although an original will run you between 1 to 2 million dollars, if you could even find one.

Projects by House of Rolison:

Photo: Gavin Cater

We love the family room at our Roscomare property. We used the color “Cottage White” from Dunn Edwards, which really brought the space to life and the large sliding doors add in beautiful natural sunlight. Brands shown include: Dunn Edwards Paint, VESTAK, Olive Ateliers

Photo: Nils Timm

The kitchen at Lloydcrest is one of our favorite kitchens. We used a crema marfil marble with a curved fluted edge to give movement to the rook. Mixing paint and stain grade cabinetry helps the room feel grounded and warm. We used an Ilve stove, a bold light fixture, and Lo and Co’s Viola Hardware to bring fresh energy to this space. Brands shown include: Plank Hardware, Ilve Stone, Lo and Co.

Photo: Nils Timm

Our primary suite at our Bluebird property. We repurposed the space to the right of the fireplace as a lounge/den for a relaxed feel. We curated pieces from The Expert, Olive Ateliers, Soho Home, and other sourced antiques, which helped us juxtapose old with new. The combination of cedar wood ceilings mirrored to hardwood white oak flooring makes you feel like you’re enveloped in warmth. Brands include: The Expert, Olive Ateliers, Soho Home

Photo: Nils Timm

Our “blue bathroom” at Bluebird. This bathroom exudes an old-world European feel. We started with the vision of the arched bathtub. We wanted to bring in not only color, but shape and texture. We have so many moving elements in one room creating a monochromatic space that’s filled with soul and dynamic. Brands include: Restoration Hardware, Zia Tile, Portola Paints

Photo: Gavin Cater

Our beautiful Coldwater kitchen. This home is surrounded by the scenery and beauty of a Los Angeles canyon. We wanted to capture the essence of nature and art in this space. We used two tones of stone to make the back counters stand out and the warmth of wood cabinetry to make the room feel soulful. Hardware by Kingston Brass.