On Wednesday, December 6th, 2023, Google introduced its latest approach to the world of artificial intelligence, Gemini. The AI model is trained to behave in human-like ways that’s likely to intensify the debate about the technology’s potential. It comes with many promises, in which some could think is even a level up in competition of Chat GPTs latest installment, Chat GPT-4. Upon its release, it will start off with two less advanced versions, the “Nano” and “Pro”. These versions will immediately be incorporated in Google’s AI powered chatbot, “Bard”, as well as the Pixel 8 Pro smartphone. The final and most sophisticated version, “Ultra”, is said to release in early 2024. Along with “Bard Advanced,” an improved version of the chatbot that initially will only be offered to a test audience. According to Google, Gemini has promised many amazing and beneficial features such as quickly summarizing recordings to provide automatic replies on messaging services (starting with WhatsApp), being able to recognize multiple different languages, multitasking by simultaneously recognizing and understanding presentations involving text/ photos/ videos and being adept in math and physics, fueling hopes among AI optimists that it may lead to scientific breakthroughs that improve life for humans. “This is a significant milestone in the development of AI, and the start of a new era for us at Google,” declared Demis Hassabis, CEO of Google DeepMind, the AI division behind Gemini. All of these features are just a glimpse of the capability of Gemini. It is safe to say that this is the next level of AI. But with all the upsides and hopes of Gemini, we cannot ignore the potential downsides.
As we advance further down the journey towards a world of AI, it is no doubt that we could be looking at something extraordinary. AI could bring us the “upgrade” to our society. It can become an essential tool that fully assists us, helping humanity reach new levels. On the flip side, AI could just as much backfire on our society.
As we invest in AI and feed it more knowledge, it’s no doubt that it will constantly reach new levels. Soon, our reality will be intertwined with AI. As much as it assists us, I doubt that there is yet to be a clear line on how it can replace us. AI is already providing the services of many people’s careers, from scientists, to cashiers, to therapists, to artists. This can potentially lead to a world of increased unemployment, filled with products and services that lack human soul. AI is also starting to invade privacy, being able to replicate people’s voices, images and even full-on videos. On a bigger scale, the more we nurture the “brain” of AI, the more the chances increase of it becoming an independent thinker. If AI grows to the point where it can operate and decide for itself, considering it already has more advanced knowledge than the average human, what’s stopping it from taking control of its reality? Although it’s not a huge chance, AI has potential to become the next dominant species. If you can’t picture what I’m saying, watch the Terminator series.
Artificial intelligence is a double edged sword. It could lead to a world of enhancement, where AI is an essential tool that works in harmony with humans. But it also comes with factors that could damage our world. Through the various perspectives on it, the only real truth about its outcome is time. We’re already in too deep to turn back. If you ask me though… we’re screwed.
