Roundup: ChatGPT / GM engine failures / US business activity surges

Friday, August 21, 2026 Facebook X Linkedin Email Print Convenience meets risk: OpenAI has added a ChatGPT feature that can search, analyze, draft and send messages through Apple’s Messages app on Macs, making it easier to manage conversations and automate tasks. While convenient for personal and business use, the integration requires expanded access to contacts and computer data, raising concerns about sensitive information being exposed to or mishandled by AI systems. The feature highlights the growing need for businesses to establish clear AI-use policies and train employees on what company or client information should never be shared with third-party AI tools. Inc. has the full story. Feds investigating: Federal regulators are investigating nearly 1 million GM pickups and SUVs after hundreds of reports of engine failures involving the company’s L87 V-8 engine. The probe follows a previous recall of nearly 600,000 vehicles, with nearly 500 complaints involving failures even after repairs and some requiring complete engine replacements. The investigation now includes newer 2021-2026 models and comes after NHTSA received an additional 191 failure reports, including one crash and injury. The Wall Street Journal reports. Services lead charge: U.S. business activity accelerated sharply in August, with the S&P Global composite PMI reaching 56, its strongest reading since April 2022, as demand and business confidence improved. Service sector growth led the expansion, while manufacturing slowed due to material shortages and supply chain delays, though both sectors continued adding jobs at the fastest pace since January 2025. Price pressures eased and expectations for future output improved, but businesses remain concerned that Middle East tensions could disrupt energy prices and supply chains. Bloomberg has the full story. Nuclear revival Would you support more nuclear energy development in Louisiana to help meet growing electricity demand from AI and data centers? Yes, it should be part of the solution Maybe, but only with strong safety and cost controls No, other energy sources should meet the demand Unsure Δ