The AI industry started off 2023 with a bang as students flocked to OpenAI’s ChatGPT for help with homework and essay writing. However, New York City Public Schools quickly banned the use of ChatGPT, sparking a larger conversation about the implications of generative AI. As interest grew in Microsoft-backed ChatGPT and other similar technologies, concerns about misinformation, harassment, and copyright infringement also arose.
In March, a group of prominent figures called for a pause in the development of advanced AI due to its potential risks to society. Despite the lack of a pause, governments and regulatory authorities began implementing new laws and regulations to oversee the development and use of AI.
Later in the year, OpenAI made headlines again when its CEO, Sam Altman, was abruptly fired, leading to internal conflict and public drama. The incident spotlighted the ongoing debate within the AI industry about balancing profit and safety.
Legislation regarding the future of AI has also been a significant focus, with the European Union and other countries working to regulate AI development and use. Concerns about privacy, bias, and copyright have prompted policymakers to require more transparency from developers.
The implications of AI on the future of work have also been a topic of discussion, with fears of job displacement and automation leading to class-action lawsuits and strikes.
Looking ahead to 2024, the impact of generative AI on global events, such as elections, is a major concern. With the rise of AI-generated content, including deepfakes, the spread of misinformation is likely to become even more challenging to address. Social media platforms are taking steps to address this issue, with Meta and YouTube implementing new policies regarding AI-generated political content.