Google Launches Gemini, Upping the Stakes in the Global AI Race
With the unveiling of project Gemini, Google is taking a significant leap forward in artificial intelligence (AI), sparking both excitement and concerns about the technology’s future. Gemini is an AI model designed to behave in human-like ways and is set to be incorporated into Google’s AI-powered chatbot, Bard, as well as the Pixel 8 Pro smartphone.
Gemini will enhance Bard’s capabilities, making it more intuitive and proficient at tasks that involve planning. On the Pixel 8 Pro, Gemini will be able to summarize recordings made on the device and offer automatic replies on messaging services, starting with WhatsApp.
The full potential of Gemini will be realized early next year when the Ultra model is used to launch Bard Advanced, an enhanced version of the chatbot that will initially be available to a select group for testing.
For now, Gemini will only work in English worldwide, but Google executives assured that it will eventually support other languages as well.
A demonstration of Gemini showcased its ability to multitask by simultaneously recognizing and understanding presentations that include text, photos, and video. Additionally, Gemini is expected to be integrated into Google’s search engine in the future.
Demis Hassabis, CEO of Google DeepMind, the AI division behind Gemini, described the launch as a significant milestone in AI development and the start of a new era for Google. DeepMind was acquired by Google nearly a decade ago, beating out other bidders, including Meta (formerly Facebook).
Google is highlighting Gemini’s problem-solving skills, particularly in math and physics, which paves the way for potential scientific breakthroughs. However, critics express concerns that AI may surpass human intelligence, resulting in job losses and other negative consequences, such as disseminating misinformation or triggering dangerous events.
Google CEO Sundar Pichai reassured observers that the company is approaching AI work boldly and responsibly. He emphasized the pursuit of capabilities that benefit society while building appropriate safeguards and collaborating with governments and experts to address risks.
The arrival of Gemini intensifies the competition in the AI race, with San Francisco startup OpenAI and long-time rival Microsoft leading the charge. OpenAI, backed by Microsoft’s resources, had already been developing its advanced AI model, GPT-4, which gained global recognition with the release of the free ChatGPT tool. This prompted Google to expedite the launch of Bard.
OpenAI subsequently unveiled GPT-4 in March with additional features targeting consumers and businesses. The company has faced accusations of straying from its original mission to protect humanity amid its growing commercialization efforts. Concerns were amplified when CEO Sam Altman was abruptly fired, leading to a tumultuous period for OpenAI, which eventually reinstated Altman as CEO.
As Gemini enters the scene, OpenAI faces the challenge of proving the superiority of its technology over Google’s.
Google did not disclose the parameter count for Gemini during the press conference, but a white paper confirmed its superior performance compared to GPT-4 in multiple-choice exams and grade-school math. However, the paper also acknowledged ongoing challenges in achieving higher-level reasoning skills for AI models.
Gemini represents a significant advancement in AI technology, and its launch signifies Google’s commitment to driving innovation in the field. The journey towards developing responsible and capable AI continues, with Google and other leading companies at the forefront of this global race.
