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Debating the Risks and Realities of Artificial General Intelligence

 

In the ever-evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI), a notable shift in focus has emerged from the once lofty concerns about AI achieving sentience or triggering a hypothetical "singularity." Instead, attention has pivoted towards a concept known as artificial general intelligence (AGI), which is increasingly becoming a focal point in AI marketing and influencing spheres. AGI represents a significant advancement in AI capabilities. 

Unlike its predecessors, AGI systems boast the potential to not only emulate but surpass human intellect across a spectrum of tasks. Stanford's Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence offers an intriguing perspective, defining AGI as machines endowed with broad intelligence, capable of seamless interaction in social contexts. 

Gartner, a leading consulting firm, further elaborates on AGI, describing it as an AI form equipped with the prowess to comprehend, learn, and apply knowledge across diverse domains. What distinguishes AGI is its remarkable cognitive flexibility, adaptability, and adeptness at solving multifaceted problems. AGI represents the next level in AI evolution. 

While AI encompasses specialized systems, such as "narrow AI" tailored for specific tasks like recognizing objects in videos, AGI takes a broader approach. Unlike AI's focused abilities, AGI possesses the capacity to learn and excel across diverse tasks, matching or even exceeding human cognitive capabilities. 

Think of AI as a toolbox with specific tools for distinct tasks, while AGI acts as a versatile Swiss army knife, capable of handling a wide array of challenges with human-like proficiency. From aiding in complex trip planning to innovating in cancer drug discovery, AGI showcases a remarkable cognitive flexibility that sets it apart in the AI landscape. 

Should we be worried about artificial general intelligence (AGI)? 

Some experts argue that current AI systems have not reached AGI levels yet, but advancements like GPT-4 suggest it may not be far off. There is debate on whether AGI systems pose inherent dangers due to their ability to invent their own plans. 

Predictions vary on when AGI will arrive, with some suggesting just a few years. The term AGI is often misinterpreted and misused, leading to hype and confusion in the AI field. OpenAI's definition of AGI has evolved, adding to the debate. Hype surrounding AGI could lead to inflated expectations and eventual disappointment, highlighting the risks of the current AI boom.

Nvidia Unveils Latest AI Chip, Promising 30x Faster Performance

 

Nvidia, a dominant force in the semiconductor industry, has once again raised the bar with its latest unveiling of the B200 "Blackwell" chip. Promising an astonishing 30 times faster performance than its predecessor, this cutting-edge AI chip represents a significant leap forward in computational capabilities. The announcement was made at Nvidia's annual developer conference, where CEO Jensen Huang showcased not only the groundbreaking new chip but also a suite of innovative software tools designed to enhance system efficiency and streamline AI integration for businesses. 

The excitement surrounding the conference was palpable, with attendees likening the atmosphere to the early days of tech presentations by industry visionaries like Steve Jobs. Bob O'Donnell from Technalysis Research, who was present at the event, remarked, "the buzz was in the air," underscoring the anticipation and enthusiasm for Nvidia's latest innovations. 

One of the key highlights of the conference was Nvidia's collaboration with major tech giants such as Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI, all of whom expressed keen interest in leveraging the capabilities of the new B200 chip for their cloud-computing services and AI initiatives. With an 80% market share and a track record of delivering cutting-edge solutions, Nvidia aims to solidify its position as a leader in the AI space. 

In addition to the B200 chip, Nvidia also announced plans for a new line of chips tailored for automotive applications. These chips will enable functionalities like in-vehicle chatbots, further expanding the scope of AI integration in the automotive industry. Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers BYD and Xpeng have already signed up to incorporate Nvidia's new chips into their vehicles, signalling strong industry endorsement. 

Furthermore, Nvidia demonstrated its commitment to advancing robotics technology by introducing a series of chips specifically designed for humanoid robots. This move underscores the company's versatility and its role in shaping the future of AI-powered innovations across various sectors. Founded in 1993, Nvidia initially gained recognition for its graphics processing chips, particularly in the gaming industry. 

However, its strategic investments in machine learning capabilities have propelled it to the forefront of the AI revolution. Despite facing increasing competition from rivals like AMD and Intel, Nvidia remains a dominant force in the market, capitalizing on the rapid expansion of AI-driven technologies. As the demand for AI solutions continues to soar, Nvidia's latest advancements position it as a key player in driving innovation and shaping the trajectory of AI adoption in the business world. With its track record of delivering high-performance chips and cutting-edge software tools, Nvidia is poised to capitalize on the myriad opportunities presented by the burgeoning AI market.

Musk’s Neuralink Seeks People for Human Trials: Brain-Implant Trials may Start Soon


Elon Musk’s startup, Neuralink, that will involve the cutting edge brain-computer interface (BCI) technology has now reached its next stage where they are now recruiting people for the technology’s first ‘human trial.’

The goal will be to link human brains to computers. The company is planning to test the technology on individuals with paralysis.

Apparently, a robot will be assigned the task of implanting a BCI to human brain, that will allow the subjects to take control of a computer cursor, or type using only their thoughts. 

However, rival companies have already achieved the feet by implanting BCI devices in human. 

Neuralink’s clinical trial has been approved by US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in May, achieving an important milestone, taking into consideration the struggle it had faced to gain approval for the same.

In regards to this, Neuralink stated at the time that the FDA approval represented "an important first step that will one day allow our technology to help many people."

While the final number of people recruited has not yet been confirmed, according to a report by new agency Reuters, the company had sought FDA’s approval to implant the devices in 10 people ( their former or current employees)./ Brain Signals/ The six year study will commence following a surgery, where a robot will implant 64 flexible threads, thinner than a human hair, on a region of the brain that managed "movement intention."

These enable Neuralink's experimental N1 implant, which runs on a remotely rechargeable battery, to record and transmit brain impulses to an app that decodes a person's intended movement.

Neuralink informs that people are eligible for the trial in case they have quadriplegia resulting from an injury or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) – a disease in which the nerve cells in the spinal cord and brain degenerates.

Precision Neuroscience, developed by a Neuralink co-founder, also aims at assisting those who are paralyzed. And it claims that its implant, which resembles a very thin piece of tape and rests on the surface of the brain, may be inserted via a "cranial micro-slit" in a less complicated manner.

Meanwhile, existing technology is producing results. Implants have been used in two different studies conducted in the US, that aimed to track brain activity during speech attempts, which might later be decoded to aid with communication.

While Mr. Musk’s involvement has played a major role in the raised popularity of Neuralink, he still face rivals, some of whom have a history going back almost two decades. In 2004, Blackrock Neurotech, a company based in Utah, implanted the first of several BCIs.

According to Dr Adrien Rapeaux, a research associate in the Neural Interfaces Lab at Imperial College London, "Neuralink no doubt has an advantage in terms of implantation," taking into account that a majority of its operations will be assisted robotically. 

On contrary, Dr. Rapeaux, co-founder of a neural implant start-up Mintneuro, says that he is not sure how Neuralink’s attempt of converting brain signals into useful actions will do any better than the methods earlier used by Blackrock Neurotech for example. He also doubts if the technology will remain accurate and reliable over time, which is "a known issue in the field."

When Will Robots Take Over Your Household Chores?

Researchers at MIT's Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory are striving to create a future where robots take on tasks like brewing coffee and arranging dining tables. The scientists at MIT are using simulations to teach robots how to handle household chores. This training is crucial to ensure that robots can assist us at home effectively without causing any problems. 

What may seem effortless to us involves a highly intricate series of instructions for an imaginary robot. To tackle this challenge, the scientists developed digital representations of humanoid robots within a simulation. These virtual robots can dissect each task into tiny, manageable steps known as "atomic actions." 

What are atomic actions in robotics? 

Atomic actions in robotics are the basic building blocks for teaching robots how to do things. They are small, fundamental steps that can't be broken down any further and are crucial for making robots perform tasks accurately and efficiently. Think of them as the simple, essential actions robots need to learn before doing more complex stuff. 

Here are some everyday examples: 

  • Grasping: Robots need to learn how to grab things, like picking up a cup without dropping it. Lifting: They must know how to lift objects safely and precisely.
  • Walking: For humanoid robots, it's about taking balanced steps without falling. Pouring: When pouring a drink, robots need to tilt the container just right to avoid spills.
  • Button Pressing: Pressing a button involves a sequence of actions, like moving an arm to the button and pressing it.
  • Screw Tightening: Robots must learn to turn screws accurately, not too loose and not too tight.
  • Measuring: If they're helping in the kitchen, they need to pour ingredients accurately. 
  • Typing: When using a keyboard, each keypress is like a tiny step. 
Imagine these atomic actions as the basic skills a robot needs, and you can combine them to teach the robot more complicated tasks. 

Geordie Rose, who leads Sanctuary Al and has a background in theoretical physics and previously founded a quantum computing company believes that there's a huge opportunity in the future. They are creating a special humanoid robot called Phoenix. This robot will be really smart. It will understand what we want, how things work, and be able to do tasks we ask it to do. 

"The long-term total addressable market is the biggest one that's ever existed in the history of business and technology - which is the labor market. It's all of the things we want done," he added. 

But before we get too excited, Geordie Rose adds that we still have a lot of work to do to make this a reality. He does not want to predict when a robot will be in your home doing chores like laundry or cleaning the bathroom. However, some experts in the field believe it could happen within the next ten years. 

There are many other companies worldwide also working on this technology. For example, in the UK, Dyson is investing in artificial intelligence and robots that can help with household tasks. One of the most well-known companies in this field is Tesla, the company known for making electric cars and led by Elon Musk. They are developing a humanoid robot called Optimus, and Musk suggests that it might be available for regular people to buy in just a few years. 

Furthermore, Mr. Rose added that,"Ten years at the pace the technology is moving now is an eternity. You know, every month, there are new developments in the AI world that are like fundamental change."