Google’s DeepMind is pushing boundaries further by testing a new AI product capable of dishing out life advice. However, this raises the critical question: Should AI play such an intimate role in our personal lives?

The AI Life Coach

The New York Times revealed that DeepMind is developing new AI tools that might function as a personal life coach, extending beyond its current capabilities. At least 21 tasks spanning both personal and professional domains are under exploration. These tasks range from providing instructions and tutoring tips to helping users navigate tricky personal situations.

For example: Imagine not knowing how to explain to a close friend that attending their destination wedding isn’t financially feasible for you. DeepMind believes its AI could help users tackle such sensitive situations.

Experts’ Warnings

While DeepMind’s exploration into this domain is undoubtedly intriguing, it does mark a sharp departure from Google’s earlier stance on AI. Notably, in December, safety experts at the company highlighted the risks of users becoming emotionally attached to chatbots. The potential pitfalls range from diminished health and well-being to a loss of personal agency. Moreover, some users might even misconstrue the AI as sentient, believing it can understand them as another human would.

The Google Bard tool, which was launched in March 2023, was explicitly forbidden from giving users medical, financial, or legal advice. If Google does choose to incorporate these capabilities in its AI, it will not only signal a drastic change in direction but also spark questions about Google’s priorities. Is it the well-being of users or establishing dominance in the rapidly evolving AI landscape?

Conclusion

DeepMind’s new venture is a testament to the limitless aspirations within the AI sector. However, with every stride made in technology, there must be a parallel emphasis on ethics and user well-being.

Sources:

Business Insider

Mashable

Digital Trends

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