Google’s artificial intelligence research lab, DeepMind, is reportedly working on new technology that aims to turn generative AI into a personal life coach. The project involves creating an AI model capable of performing a variety of personal and professional tasks, including offering life advice, providing ideas, planning instructions, and tutoring tips.
The project is described as an attempt to improve the AI’s ability to answer intimate questions about challenges in people’s lives. DeepMind has reportedly assembled a group of around 100 experts with doctorates in various fields to assess the tool’s responses, potentially including mental health professionals.
This move by Google into the realm of providing life advice through AI is notable, especially considering that the company’s own Bard Privacy Help Hub advises against relying on the chatbot’s responses for medical, legal, financial, or other professional advice.
The development of this AI-powered life coach could be seen as a response to the growing competition in the AI industry, particularly from companies like OpenAI. The article suggests that companies are engaging in an AI arms race to establish dominance in the field, and Google’s move to create a “robo-therapist” could be its way of gaining a competitive edge.
However, it’s important to note that the technology is still in the testing phase, and there’s no guarantee that it will become a part of Google’s product offerings. A DeepMind spokeswoman mentioned that evaluations of the AI are not indicative of a specific product roadmap.
The potential for AI to assist with tasks like creating workout plans or offering tutoring in specific skills is intriguing, and if successful, this technology could provide valuable support to individuals seeking guidance in various aspects of their lives.