Recently, a significant topic has captured the attention of Silicon Valley: “The Realistic Future of AI Technology.” Many had anticipated groundbreaking innovations from AI, but now, there is growing sentiment that these expectations were overly inflated. Can AI truly change the world as envisioned, or is it merely another ‘Hype’?
AI Technology: Trapped in the ‘Hype Cycle’
Throughout history, technological innovations typically undergo a process known as the ‘Hype Cycle.’ Initially, there is intense interest and a surge of investment, followed by a plunge into the depths of disillusionment. Many technologies never recover from this phase and fade into obscurity. However, some manage to overcome these challenges, eventually becoming widely adopted. AI seems to be at the center of this ‘Hype Cycle.’
Recently, investments and expectations surrounding AI have significantly decreased, with the stock prices of leading Western companies spearheading the AI revolution dropping by more than 15%. This has led many investors and tech experts to question whether AI can indeed bring about genuine transformation.
Can Technological Advancements Survive the Depths of Disillusionment?
Indeed, it’s undeniable that AI is currently experiencing the ‘depths of disillusionment.’ Only 4.8% of American companies are utilizing AI in their product and service production, down from 5.4% earlier this year. This statistic indicates that AI has not yet firmly established itself in the real economy. Nevertheless, we must not stop here.
The 19th-century railway boom and the 1990s internet craze provide us with crucial lessons. These technologies, despite initial overinvestment and subsequent bursts of bubbles, brought about significant economic and societal changes through infrastructure development. Similarly, while AI is facing challenges now, the infrastructure being built could serve as a crucial foundation for future transformation.
Preparing for the Future of AI
The challenges facing AI are not limited to mere technical limitations. Companies must now focus on finding ways for AI to deliver real value to the real economy. Beyond simple technological competition, it’s time for AI to consider social responsibilities and ethical issues.
The future of AI remains uncertain. However, one thing is clear: we cannot dismiss this technology as mere ‘Hype.’ Beyond short-term disappointments, AI holds the potential to bring about significant long-term changes to our society. Now is the time to build the infrastructure and seek ways to create real value from this technology.
Conclusion
Although AI technology is currently facing a tough period, this may be a natural part of the journey for any groundbreaking innovation. We hope that AI will not just be another ‘Hype,’ but rather establish itself as a technology capable of truly changing the future. For this to happen, companies must look beyond short-term profits and explore ways to develop and utilize AI technology with a long-term perspective.
Now is the time for you to face the reality of AI technology and find ways to prepare for the future. The potential of AI depends on how we choose to leverage it today. Let’s build that future together.
References: economist, “Artificial intelligence is losing hype”