AI Update, July 11, 2025: AI News and Views From the Past Two Weeks

Catch up on select AI news and developments from the past two weeks (in no particular order):

Senate rejects ban on state-level AI regulation. The US Senate voted 99–1 to remove a provision in a Republican tax bill—signed into law on July 4—that would have barred states from regulating AI for 10 years. The measure faced bipartisan opposition, with critics arguing it would shield AI companies from accountability. State leaders, parents, and advocacy groups cited harm to children and consumer protection as key concerns. Even its initial backers, including Sen. Cruz, ultimately voted to strike it. Importance for marketers: This outcome reinforces state authority over AI governance, potentially leading to a fragmented but faster-evolving regulatory landscape.

Baidu launches business-focused AI video tool and revamps search. Baidu released MuseSteamer, an AI-powered video generator for businesses, with versions tailored to different levels of performance. Unlike rivals like OpenAI's Sora, MuseSteamer is business-only for now. The company also upgraded its search engine to support longer queries and voice/image inputs, powered by its internal AI. The moves come as competition intensifies in China from ByteDance and Tencent. Importance for marketers: This signals Baidu's pivot to enterprise solutions, which could alter video content workflows and redefine how businesses in Asia approach branded media and search engagement.

Grammarly acquires Superhuman to build AI productivity suite. Grammarly is acquiring email startup Superhuman to expand its AI productivity offerings, following a $1B funding round. Superhuman's CEO and team will join Grammarly, integrating the company's AI capabilities into a broader workplace suite. Superhuman, known for optimizing email workflows, claims major increases in user productivity. The acquisition comes amid rising competition as tech giants also enhance email with AI. Importance for marketers: The deal highlights growing convergence between language tools and productivity platforms—offering potential for AI-driven campaign execution, smarter email workflows, and cross-platform marketing coordination.