6 Mar 2025
As 2025 unfolds, artificial intelligence continues to revolutionise industries, spark innovation and open exciting new opportunities. Dive into this month’s highlights curated for the engineering community.
AI global
AI breakthroughs you can’t ignore: GPT-4.5, Operator & Deep Research
OpenAI’s latest innovations are shaking up the AI world. From an upgraded GPT-4.5 to AI agents tackling real-world tasks, here’s what’s redefining the future;
- OpenAI’s most advanced model yet, GPT-4.5 delivers enhanced capabilities and broader applications, solidifying its position as a leader in AI innovation.
- Operator is a computer-using agent that autonomously handles complex, real-world tasks, such as shopping for groceries and booking reservations. Still in its early stages, Operator is redefining what AI can do in practical, multi-step processes.
- Deep Research is designed to automate multi-step internet research. This ChatGPT-powered agent generates expert-level reports in minutes. Available to Pro users, Deep Research is OpenAI’s response to competitive pressure from China’s DeepSeek.
AI voices are now almost human – are we ready? AI-generated voices are crossing the uncanny valley. Try the demo and hear for yourself – the future of human-machine conversations is here.
Humanoid robots in 2025: Are we finally at the tipping point? Tesla, Boston Dynamics, and Figure AI are racing to build robots that work alongside us. Will 2025 be the year they go mainstream?
The biggest AI trends Big Tech is betting on. The future of AI is unfolding now. From game-changing computing breakthroughs to industry-shifting applications, the New Zealand Herald tells us what’s coming next.
AI in engineering
Are you ready to go hands-on with AI? Check out these learning opportunities:
- Getting practical with Generative AI – Online. Join Matt Ensor, a New Zealand leader in GenAI for a webinar on the latest developments and capabilities. There’ll be a demo on common platforms, an interactive Q&A and you’ll learn how to apply GenAI to your real-world scenarios.
- Exploring the power of Generative AI – In-person course. Immerse yourself in the dynamic world of GenAI. You'll be guided through its expansive capabilities and will consider ethics and governance issues. Interact with advanced GenAI tools and explore its potential in your professional context..
- Unlock the power of Generative AI – Half-day workshop for engineers & lawyers. Join this in-person Christchurch based workshop to explore the real-world applications of generative AI in engineering and beyond. This April event, hosted by Canterbury University, will give you the tools and insights needed to integrate AI into your workflows effectively.
- How to safely introduce AI into your engineering practice. Watch this one hour recorded webinar with Mathieu Duguay, Digital Principal and Business Director at Beca, as he shares expert insights on building a strong foundation for the safe adoption of AI. Learn how to navigate challenges, implement AI effectively, and explore two real-world engineering use cases that demonstrate essential aspects of data management and cybersecurity.
Generative AI is reshaping engineering – are you keeping up? A new report from Engineers Australia dives into how AI is revolutionizing design, automation, and problem-solving. From real-world applications to future breakthroughs, see what’s next –and what challenges lie ahead.
Prompt engineering: A new career path for engineers? Writing great AI prompts is becoming a serious skill. But does it count as "real engineering"? Let’s discuss.
Meet Agovor: The Kiwi startup revolutionizing farming with AI. Meet Agovor, a groundbreaking Kiwi startup developing AI-powered, autonomous mini electric tractors to revolutionize the horticulture industry. Learn how this innovation is paving the way for smarter, more sustainable farming.
New Zealand’s AI Blueprint 2025: The plan to dominate AI. The AI Forum of New Zealand has mapped out how AI will drive innovation and economic growth. Are we ready to lead?
AI governance
AI in government: The blueprint for ethical AI use
Discover a government framework outlining best practices and ethical considerations for adopting AI in the public sector. This guideline serves as a critical resource for ensuring responsible AI use.
AI vs. cybersecurity: The next digital arms race
AI is both a weapon and a shield in cybersecurity. Here’s how it’s reshaping the battle for digital security.
AI and IP – who owns the outputs?
The rise of generative AI has raised questions and uncertainties surrounding IP – what material should AI “learn” from, and who owns the outputs?
