Google is lagging behind in the race for generative AI, prompting the release of Google's BARD chatbot.
Google aims to find a balance between innovating with generative AI and maintaining dominance in their search advertising business.
Deep dives
Mixed Reviews for Google's New Chatbot, BARD
The public reaction to Google's new chatbot, BARD, has been lukewarm. While some users have found value in its capabilities, others feel it falls short compared to similar AI chatbots like Chat GPT. This has contributed to the perception that Google is lagging behind in the race for generative AI. Google's management has recognized the need to prioritize AI development, leading to the recent release of BARD. However, they are being cautious in the rollout, starting with a smaller model and plans to upgrade in the near future with more capable models.
Google's Strategic Balancing Act: Capitalizing on Generative AI without Jeopardizing Search Business
Google faces a classic innovator's dilemma in the realm of generative AI. On one hand, they have a dominant position in the search advertising business, which they don't want to diminish. On the other hand, competitors like OpenAI and Microsoft, through their partnership, pose a threat with their own AI tools. Google aims to capitalize on generative AI's potential while ensuring they don't jeopardize their search business. Finding the balance between innovation and maintaining market dominance is key for Google.
Implications of Generative AI on Jobs and Industries
Generative AI, exemplified by Google's BARD and other language models, has implications for various industries and job roles. While some concerns exist about job displacement, Sundar Pichai, Google CEO, emphasizes the potential for generative AI to enhance existing roles, making programming more accessible and enjoyable for software engineers. He envisions the technology as an opportunity for empowering individuals in their day-to-day lives, similar to the transformative impact of Google Assistant. Meanwhile, Google remains committed to working with the publisher ecosystem and evolving its search business responsibly.
Addressing Concerns and Balancing Innovation with AI Safety
AI safety is a paramount concern in the development and deployment of artificial intelligence. Sundar Pichai acknowledges the importance of addressing concerns raised by experts and the tech community. He highlights the need for continued dialogue, responsible regulation, and thoughtful approaches to ensure the technology's development aligns with societal needs and values. While AI offers immense potential, it must be harnessed responsibly and with vigilance to avoid adverse consequences or harm.
For years, Google was seen as one of the most cutting-edge developers of A.I. But, with OpenAI’s release of ChatGPT, and other chatbots beating Google to market, is that distinction still the case? Google’s chief executive is in an unenviable position: Scramble to catch up or, in the face of potentially harmful technology, move slowly.
Today, Sundar Pichai on Google’s delicate balance between A.I. innovation and safety.
On today’s episode:
Sundar Pichai is the chief executive of Google.
Additional reading:
The launch of ChatGPT caused a ‘code red’ inside Google and prompted the release of Google’s Bard.