Apart from the moments of panic over possible medical scenarios (if you’re under 35, don’t fret – you’ll catch on shortly), AI hasn’t played a significant role in my daily routine.
Even though my job revolves around examining new technologies and exclaiming “Ooh, shiny!” in 2,000 words or fewer, I would characterize my overall perspective on AI as predominantly pessimistic.
My viewpoint is shaped by a complicated blend of feelings: disdain for AI’s impact on the creative fields; anxiety about its ability to disrupt the job landscape for average individuals like myself; skepticism regarding the intentions of its leaders (looking at you, Mr. Altman); and outright fear of it going Skynet on humanity.
It would be an overstatement to claim that this cynical perspective has transformed in just the past week, but it has definitely adjusted somewhat.
A Slippery Slope
The whole situation began on a recent trip to Spain, where I didn’t just want to learn how to express something, but also how to pronounce it correctly without resorting to an embarrassing YouTube video in public. Sure enough, Gemini provided a phonetic transcription of how to request a delectable pastry to take away (pah-rah yeh-bahr), instead of consuming it on-site.
Upon returning to work, I needed to verify if I had sent a review phone back to the manufacturer earlier this year. Typically, this would mean plunging into email search hell for the morning, mindlessly typing variations of a simple phrase into MacOS’s default email application. Perhaps due to some lingering holiday sluggishness, I decided to try a different approach.
Gemini Comes to the Rescue
Diving into the Gemini section of the Gmail web app, I quickly typed: “Is there any evidence that I’ve returned the [REDACTED]?” Within moments, Gemini informed me there was no sign that I had, before conveniently quoting that the PR had noted I could keep it a little longer for a forthcoming feature.
Less than an hour later, Gemini was at it again, letting me know that Motorola hadn’t launched a tablet in the UK or US for nearly 15 years. Naturally, being the cynic professional that I am, I verified that fact through traditional means. It was spot on.
Wider Acceptance?
None of this will be surprising to all you AI enthusiasts out there. My utilization of the technology will likely appear quaint and narrow to some, and I have no intention of increasing my AI dependency at this stage.
However, I worry that I might now be on the slippery slope towards some broader acceptance of AI. This technology genuinely works. Who would have guessed?
This Lad’s Grapple with Gemini
It seems that even a stubborn Geordie like me isn’t entirely resistant to the allure of AI. Just don’t expect us to become best friends any time soon!
