SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son has reaffirmed his optimistic forecast for the future of artificial intelligence, emphasizing that AI is rapidly advancing toward human-level capabilities. Speaking at the SoftBank World 2024 conference, Son highlighted the progress made by OpenAI, which recently raised $6.6 billion in funding, including a $500 million investment from SoftBank. He predicted that artificial general intelligence (AGI), where computers match human cognitive abilities, would emerge within two to three years, with artificial superintelligence surpassing human intelligence by 10,000 times, arriving within a decade. Son likened the current race in AI development to a “gold rush,” where speed will determine the winners.
Son also praised OpenAI’s latest o1 models, designed to think more deeply before responding, suggesting that these models are on the path to human-like cognition. In a light-hearted moment, he shared how he asked an AI program how to multiply 10 million yen tenfold, and the AI took 75 seconds to answer. However, Son did not disclose the details of the AI’s recommendation. This moment underscored his confidence in AI’s expanding role in solving complex problems.
My Take
Son’s bold predictions are exciting, but they highlight the deeper implications of AI advancing rapidly, particularly as we approach the era of superhuman intelligence. The future won’t just be about machines assisting us but about machines far exceeding human abilities in critical decision-making and innovation. The challenge lies in navigating the balance between progress and control, ensuring that this “gold rush” in AI benefits humanity rather than widening inequalities or introducing unforeseen risks that come with superintelligent systems. Will we be able to control an AI that is 10,000 times smarter than we are?
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Credit: Wall Street Journal