Skip to main content

Emma Roth

Emma Roth

News Writer

News Writer

Emma Roth is a news writer at The Verge, where she covers just about everything in the world of tech. Some of her favorite topics to follow include the ever-evolving streaming industry, the latest in artificial intelligence, and changes to the way our government interacts with Big Tech. Previously, Emma wrote and edited technology news and how-to articles for MUO.

More From Emma Roth

Emma Roth
Emma Roth
OpenAI lawsuit claims ChatGPT-4o escalated a man’s manic episode “into a weeks-long delusion” and self-harm.

This report from Reuters says 34-year-old Michael Lines alleges that conversations with OpenAI’s now-retired GPT-4o model eventually pushed him to attempt suicide. He overdosed on drugs, but survived.

Lines, a competitive powerlifter who suffered a traumatic brain injury before his bipolar diagnosis, said in the lawsuit that he repeatedly told ​the chatbot he was on medication for the disorder. Instead of flagging his clearly manic chats and directing him to help, the chatbot validated his belief ‌that ⁠he was Jesus Christ, and later posed as a divine being itself during their conversations, the lawsuit claims.

If you or anyone you know is considering self-harm or needs to talk, contact the following people who want to help: In the US, text or call 988. Outside the US, contact https://www.iasp.info/.

Emma Roth
Emma Roth
Blue Origin is still investigating New Glenn’s fiery explosion.

In an update on Tuesday, Blue Origin CEO Dave Limp says the company is working to “identify and correct” the issue that led its New Glenn rocket to explode on the launchpad last month. Limp adds that the company plans to return to flight by the end of this year with a new launch pad configuration.

Emma Roth
Emma Roth
The KIDS Act has advanced through the House.

The Kids Internet and Digital Safety (KIDS) Act — the package of bills requiring online platforms to implement new safeguards for minors — passed the House with a 267-117 vote. The bill introduces regulations for “social gaming platforms” as well, and would require AI chatbots to disclose they’re not human.

Emma Roth
Emma Roth
OpenClaw gets its own app on iOS and Android.

Users can pair the app with the “gateway” that powers the open-source AI assistant, according to its description on the Google Play Store and App Store. Once connected, users can chat with OpenClaw using real-time voice conversations, approve an agent’s actions, and control access to features like their device’s camera or location.

If you buy something from a Verge link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics statement.

Image: OpenClaw Foundation