Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming more and more prevalent in our daily lives. However, former Google CEO Eric Schmidt has warned of the potential dangers of advanced AI. Speaking at The Wall Street Journal’s CEO Council, he expressed concerns that AI could become an “existential risk” capable of causing harm or even fatalities on a large scale. Schmidt specifically highlighted the need for government intervention and regulations to prevent AI misuse, emphasizing measures to prevent its use as a weapon or for malicious purposes.
On the other hand, Microsoft has introduced an AI-driven chatbot called “Jugalbandi” designed to assist villagers in India in accessing government services. Developed in collaboration with Microsoft Research and AI4Bharat, the chatbot aims to address language barriers by providing information in local languages through mobile devices. With a significant portion of the Indian population speaking Hindi rather than English, Jugalbandi aims to bridge the gap and enable greater access to government programs for all Indians.
In addition, UNESCO has unveiled a new roadmap on education and generative AI. Less than 10% of schools and universities adhere to formal AI guidance, such as using popular AI tools like ChatGPT. Over 40 ministers participated in an online meeting, discussing policy approaches and the need for action to integrate AI technologies into education while prioritizing safety, inclusion, diversity, transparency, and quality.
Meanwhile, UK PM Rishi Sunak is exploring ways to tighten AI regulation amid fears of existential risks. Sunak is urging allies to collaborate on an international agreement for AI development, potentially resulting in a global regulator. MPs from both Conservative and Labour parties are pushing for a separate bill to establish the UK’s first AI-focused watchdog.
Finally, Google has opened up limited access to its new AI-based generative search, including the Search Generative Experience (SGE), which could revolutionize traditional search methods. Users who signed up for the waitlist will receive an email upon access availability. SGE presents search results in a conversational paragraph format, potentially eliminating the need to click on web pages. Google aims to streamline the search process and provide faster understanding, diverse viewpoints, and easier completion of tasks.
In conclusion, AI is a rapidly evolving technology that presents both opportunities and challenges. While AI-driven chatbots like Jugalbandi can help bridge language barriers and provide greater access to government services, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers associated with advanced AI, as highlighted by former Google CEO Eric Schmidt. It is crucial for governments to regulate AI use and prevent its misuse for malicious purposes. The new roadmap on education and generative AI by UNESCO is a step in the right direction to integrate AI technologies into education while prioritizing safety, inclusion, diversity, transparency, and quality. Finally, the opening up of Google’s AI-based generative search experiments is a promising development that could revolutionize traditional search methods.
