The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence continues to reshape industries, and a year-long experiment by journalist Joanna Stern offers a unique perspective on the current state of the technology and its potential future. Stern’s experience, detailed in her new book I Am Not a Robot, and discussed in a recent interview with The Verge, provides valuable insights for developers, media professionals, and anyone interested in the practical applications of AI.
What Happened
Joanna Stern spent an entire year intentionally integrating AI into every facet of her life, from household chores to parenting. Her new book chronicles this experiment, organized by seasons, and details her experiences with various AI tools and, notably, humanoid robots. Stern also launched a new media company, New Things, and is utilizing AI to assist with its operations, particularly in navigating the YouTube algorithm. This venture is partnered with NBC to maintain a broad audience reach. The core takeaway from her year with AI is that, while many hyped AI gadgets (especially robots) are not yet practical, other AI applications—specifically wearable AI—hold significant promise.
Why It Matters
Stern's experience is significant for several reasons. First, it offers a grounded assessment of the current state of AI. The conclusion that many robotic systems are not yet ready for widespread adoption is a critical reality check, tempering the often-overblown hype surrounding these technologies. This is especially relevant for developers working in robotics, who should focus on solving fundamental challenges before pursuing more ambitious applications.
Second, Stern's optimism regarding wearable AI suggests a potential area for focused innovation. If a ‘killer app’ can be found for wearable AI, it could justify the ongoing investment and address the tradeoffs associated with AI development. This signals a potential shift in focus for AI research and development, moving away from general-purpose AI towards specialized applications.
Finally, Stern's use of AI to launch and operate New Things provides a case study for media companies looking to leverage AI for content creation, distribution, and audience engagement. This is particularly relevant given the increasing importance of platforms like YouTube and the need to adapt to algorithmic changes. The partnership with NBC is also noteworthy, demonstrating a potential model for integrating independent media ventures with established networks.
What To Watch
The evolution of wearable AI is a key area to monitor. Will developers identify a compelling use case that drives adoption? The success of New Things will also be a bellwether for independent media ventures leveraging AI. Can Stern’s company successfully navigate the challenges of the YouTube algorithm and build a sustainable audience? Furthermore, it will be important to track the progress of humanoid robotics. While Stern’s experience suggests they are not currently viable, ongoing advancements in AI and robotics may eventually lead to breakthroughs. It remains uncertain when and if these robots will deliver on their promises.