A day after Elon Musk suggested that artificial intelligence (AI) will make most jobs optional, Google CEO Sundar Pichai echoed a similar sentiment, emphasizing AI’s pervasive impact. In an interview with popular tech YouTuber Hayls World, Pichai discussed various facets of the ongoing AI revolution and the importance of understanding the technology for effective adoption.
Since Google I/O 2024, Pichai has been vocal about Google’s vision for AI, underscoring its transformative potential.
Why use Google’s AI?
The interview began with the host’s question, “Why should anyone start using Google’s AI?” Pichai responded that AI will significantly influence everything we do. “It’s more likely to be correct and grounded in reality. You can talk to the AI about how to do better. It’s an intense philosophical conversation, a bit above my pay grade,” he remarked.
Pichai expressed his enthusiasm for AI, noting that it enhances user experience by saving time and handling complex queries. “That’s the primary way we are integrating AI into our products,” he stated, emphasizing AI’s role in making life easier.
Why Google’s Gemini stands out
When asked what differentiates Google’s Gemini from ChatGPT, Pichai highlighted several factors. The integration of Google Search and other Google products is a significant advantage. “For example, it can summarize your emails in Gmail, and you can easily send off an email. It’s very well integrated with the rest of your Google products, including YouTube. It’s multimodal, so over time you’ll be able to use voice and point it at things,” he explained. Pichai emphasized Google’s long-standing expertise, ensuring directions and information are more accurate and grounded in reality.
AI consciousness and future prospects
On the topic of AI consciousness, Pichai acknowledged the complexity of the subject. He distinguished between AI that appears conscious and true AI consciousness. “In the next few years, we will have AI that gives you the semblance of being conscious, and you may not be able to differentiate. But that’s different from it actually being conscious. It’s a very deep philosophical conversation,” he noted.
Discussing the future of AI, Pichai envisioned a world where AI is a constant assistant in daily tasks. “AI will be like correcting spelling and grammar in Google Docs for pretty much everything you do. You may be getting ready for an interview and talking to the AI about how to do better, and it won’t even seem strange,” he said, predicting rapid advancements in technology.
Integration of Google Assistant and Gemini
When asked about the future of Google Assistant with the advent of Gemini, Pichai suggested that over time, Gemini would power Google Assistant. He envisioned a unified system where both tools merge. Pichai also shared insights on how Pixel users interact with Gemini, using it as a brainstorming partner for various tasks, such as planning events or dietary queries.
Project Astra and user engagement
Pichai discussed Project Astra, highlighting its user-friendly approach where Gemini can be asked to analyze foods and answer questions. “People are using it broadly across different types of needs and are becoming more familiar and comfortable with the technology,” he said.
Optimism for AI’s future
Pichai expressed his optimism about AI and its potential to improve lives. He cited applications such as self-driving cars and advancements in medical research as areas where AI could make significant contributions. “You should view it as something more profound than electricity or fire. AI will pretty much touch everything we do and has much potential to improve things. There are pitfalls, and we need to tackle them carefully,” he concluded.
Sundar Pichai’s insights underscore the transformative potential of AI in various aspects of life. From enhancing daily tasks to addressing complex challenges, AI, as envisioned by Google, promises to be a profound force for progress. As technology evolves, understanding and integrating AI responsibly will be crucial in harnessing its full potential.