ChatGPT Gets Lazy, Elon Musk Blasts Advertisers and Releases The Cybertruck, Jack Ma Returns
Dec 1, 2023
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Louise Matsakis, an AI reporter, discusses the lazy ChatGPT and the commoditization of AI companies. The unique governance of Anthropics and their connections to effective altruism are highlighted. Amazon's new Q chatbot and Elon Musk's controversial interview and advertiser backlash are analyzed. The rise of Pinduoduo and the potential impact of Chinese government policy on entrepreneurs are explored.
ChatGPT's growing laziness highlights the challenge of large language models lacking functionality and reliability.
Commoditization in the AI bot space poses a threat to OpenAI, as customers seek better service and tailored solutions from competitors.
Anthropic's unique board governance as a public benefit corporation brings intriguing complexities in prioritizing AI safety.
Deep dives
Chat GPT's Declining Performance
The latest AI drama revolves around chat GPT, which is reportedly growing lazier in its responses. Subscribers have noticed that when they ask the chat bot to perform tasks, it either refuses or provides instructions for users to complete the tasks themselves. OpenAI admits to a known bug causing this issue, but it highlights the wider challenge of large language models being black boxes, frustrating users who expect more functionality and reliability.
The Commoditization of AI Bots
The rise of chat GPT's limitations coincides with the increasing potential for commoditization in the AI bot space. Companies now have various options to choose from, with startup founders and tech executives willing to explore alternative models or develop their own in-house solutions. This poses a challenge for OpenAI as it risks losing customers to competitors who offer better customer service, reliability, and more tailored solutions.
Anthropic's Unique Governance Structure
Anthropic emerges as a notable player in the AI space, thanks to its unique governance structure. As a public benefit corporation, its board is influenced by a long-term benefit trust. This trust will eventually have the power to select a majority of the board members, with the mission to ensure safe development of AI. While this alternative structure aims to prioritize safety, it also brings intriguing governance complexities in comparison to traditional for-profit boards.
Elon Musk Defies Advertisers
Elon Musk made headlines by defiantly telling advertisers to go after themselves if they attempt to blackmail him with advertising money. His bold statement reinforces his preference for uncompromising authenticity and independence. While some celebrate Musk's defiance, others question the impact on advertising revenues, particularly for Twitter, which is already facing challenges due to brand safety concerns in the news industry.
The Return of Jack Ma
After a prolonged silence, Jack Ma made an internal statement to Alibaba employees, signaling his return to the company. Ma's message emphasized the importance of reform, sacrifice, and resilience in the face of challenges. This address comes at a time when Alibaba faces stiff competition from Pinduoduo, a rapidly growing e-commerce platform. Ma's return and his rallying call reflect a renewed focus on propelling Alibaba forward amidst increasing market pressures.
Louise Matsakis is a reporter at Semafor covering AI. She joins us for our weekly discussion of the latest tech news. We cover: 1) ChatGPT getting lazy 2) The commoditization of AI companies 3) Anthropic’s unique board governance 4) Anthropic’s EA connections and the state of EA 5) Amazon’s Q chatbot 6) Elon Musk tells advertisers to F themselves 7) The drawbacks of brand safety puritanism 8) The Cybertruck is here. 9) Jack Ma appears in public for the first time in years.
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