SoftBank Group recently hosted the "SoftBank World 2024" event, where CEO Masayoshi Son unveiled ambitious plans for artificial intelligence (AI).
He asserted that artificial general intelligence (AGI) will be achieved within two to three years, while artificial superintelligence (ASI) could emerge within a decade. This vision is supported by a significant investment in OpenAI, marking a pivotal moment in the AI landscape.
Key Takeaways
SoftBank is investing $500 million in OpenAI, part of a larger funding round expected to raise $6.5 billion.
Masayoshi Son predicts AGI will be realised in 2-3 years and ASI in 10 years.
The future of AI includes personal agents that will enhance daily life and decision-making.
SoftBank's Investment in OpenAI
SoftBank's Vision Fund has committed $500 million to OpenAI, a move that aligns with Son's long-term goal of creating ASI. This funding round is expected to value OpenAI at approximately $150 billion, making it one of the most valuable startups globally. Son's investment reflects his belief that AI will revolutionise various sectors, including healthcare, education, and personal finance.
The Road to Artificial General Intelligence
Son emphasised that AGI, which mimics human cognitive abilities, is just around the corner. He outlined a progression of AI capabilities:
Level 1: Basic understanding and execution of tasks.
Level 2: Advanced problem-solving akin to a PhD-level intellect.
Level 3: AI as an autonomous agent capable of innovation.
Level 4: AI that can engage in organisational activities.
Level 5: The emergence of ASI, which Son defines as intelligence 10,000 times greater than that of humans.
The Future of AI in Daily Life
Son envisions a future where personal AI agents will assist individuals in everyday tasks. These agents could:
Monitor health and provide medical advice.
Manage schedules and make reservations.
Assist in financial planning and investment decisions.
He believes that these advancements will lead to a new era of convenience and efficiency, ultimately enhancing human happiness.
The Shift from Speed to Depth in AI
Son noted a significant shift in AI development from speed to depth. The recent release of OpenAI's model, codenamed "o1", marks a transition where AI not only processes information quickly but also engages in deeper reasoning. This evolution is crucial for solving complex problems and making informed decisions.
The Agent of Things Era
Looking ahead, Son introduced the concept of "Agent of Things" (AIoT), where AI agents will interact with various devices and systems. This paradigm shift will enable:
Seamless communication between personal agents and household devices.
Enhanced automation in daily tasks, such as cooking and cleaning.
Improved efficiency in business operations through AI-driven decision-making.
Son's vision is not just about technological advancement; it is about creating a harmonious relationship between humans and AI, where the latter contributes positively to society.
Conclusion
Masayoshi Son's bold predictions and substantial investments signal a transformative period for AI. With SoftBank's commitment to advancing AI technologies, the world may soon witness the realisation of AGI and ASI, fundamentally altering how we live and work. As we stand on the brink of this new era, the potential for AI to enhance human life is both exciting and profound.
Sources
SoftBank Shares Surge as CEO Pushes AI Superintelligence Vision With OpenAI | CCN.com, CCN.com.
SoftBank To Invest $500M In OpenAI — Report, Crunchbase News.
SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son Talks Up A.I. After Pouring $500M in OpenAI | Observer, Observer.
AI to Have Human-Level Abilities in a Few Years, SoftBank CEO Son Says - WSJ, WSJ.
