OpenAI takes on Google 🥊 One major issue? Safety

Web3, AI and the creator economy in under 3 minutes per week!

Author

Shira Lazar
May 19, 2024

Hey Alpha fam! Here are some highlights from the week that I’m paying attention to. I hope they will keep you up to date, too.

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The AI Race: Who Will Come Out on Top—Google, OpenAI, or Apple?

As AI advancements surge, Google and OpenAI are leading the pack, but Apple isn't out of the game just yet. While Siri has lagged behind, recent developments hint at a promising comeback. OpenAI's GPT-4o and Google's latest Gemini AI are setting high standards with advanced voice capabilities and seamless task management, leaving Siri looking outdated.

With so much news out there, here’s a breakdown of what each announced this week:

Google:

OpenAI:

Apple:

  • Siri Enhancements:

    • Potential for deep integration within Apple’s ecosystem, offering personalized and highly functional AI assistance.

  • Apple enters the generative AI race

However, Apple has some powerful cards to play. By leveraging its vast ecosystem and user data, Apple could significantly upgrade Siri. Integrating AI models from OpenAI or Google could transform Siri into a sophisticated assistant capable of complex, multi-step tasks.

With the Worldwide Developer Conference around the corner, Apple might reveal its plans to reclaim its AI prowess. 

🔥 My Hot Take:While Google has the advantage of being a leader in search and having billions of people using their products daily, I think there’s an opening for innovation and a culture shift, and OpenAI is definitely leading the way. If Apple doesn’t opt to build their own models and negotiates a deal with OpenAI, it can propel them to leadership status with Apple and Microsoft in their back pocket. FYI, Microsoft is a fan, having invested $13 billion in OpenAI since 2019.

Shira Lazar

The one red flag right now keeping OpenAI behind? Ethics and safety.

Just days after their big event, they shut down their safety division. The move now has some employees from its Alignment team leaving, calling out the company for not prioritizing a huge part of the evolution of AI and humanity. Gavin Purcell, Exec and co-host of the podcast “AI For Humans,” had a great post about this on Linkedin sharing:

“AI Alignment is a complicated idea and is tied in directly to the idea that AI could eventually overtake humanity in terms of both capabilities and (potentially) decide it doesn't need us around.

A properly 'aligned' AI system is one that sees itself as a partner to humanity and keeps our interests in mind as it gets more and more able. One that isn't as well aligned could decide that we're just getting in it's way and, you know, Terminator us.”

Other headlines to check out:

Web3

Creator Economy 

AI

Keeping my eye on…

Maven is a new social network that removes likes and followers, aiming to reduce stress and foster meaningful discussions. Backed by Twitter cofounder Ev Williams, it focuses on interests rather than individuals.

Posts are tagged by AI to reach relevant audiences, promoting serendipity and exploration. Founded by computer scientist Kenneth Stanley, Maven encourages civil conversations without the pressure of gaining followers. It's available on Apple, Android, and the web, offering a healthier alternative to traditional social media.


I’m Bullish On…

Cathy Hackl

Cathy Hackl: Spatial Computing and AI Pioneer

Cathy Hackl is a leading expert in spatial computing and the AI-driven business revolution. She has held influential roles at HTC VIVE, Magic Leap, and AWS, contributing significantly to advancements in immersive technologies. Also congrats to her on her newly released book: Spatial Computing: An AI-Driven Business Revolution!

Gentle reminder:

Your roadblocks are leading you to be more of yourself. - @DrGaborMate

This is from a great podcast I just listened to from Tim Ferriss all about dealing with trauma. You can listen to it HERE.

Remember, I'm Bullish on you!

With gratitude,