From Meta misfire to machine minds: Mark Zuckerberg believes AI will pay off, but how?

Meta has been heavily investing in artificial intelligence for some time with this week CEO Mark Zuckerberg revealing that the company plans to spend $72 billion this year and even more next year.

That investment has been reflected in the company’s share price, with its stock soaring almost 12% to $779.70.

Meta make big AI push

Zuckerberg credits artificial intelligence as the driving force behind Meta’s success. AI is now deeply embedded in the company’s ad systems, helping deliver more targeted campaigns and better ROI for marketers.

“Over the last few months we have begun to see glimpses of our AI systems improving themselves. The improvement is slow for now, but undeniable. Developing superintelligence is now in sight,” Zuckerberg wrote in a memo earlier this week.

Zuckerberg added that developments in AI, in some ways, heralds “a new era for humanity” - one which, in his words, will help us to “spend more time on creativity, culture, relationships, and enjoying life”.

So what exactly is “superintelligence” and how does it differ from today’s AI? Zuckerberg didn’t go into detail other than mentioning that the new technology will be “a tool for personal empowerment” albeit one with new safety concerns...

AI safety concerns

Perhaps he was referring to products which are currently on the market such as Ray-Ban Meta AI smart glasses which feature a built-in camera, are fully integrated with Meta AI with a third-generation model due to be released this fall. Or other home devices, such as AI robots which act as personal assistants or smart TVs that monitor your pets while you’re out.

If that all sounds a little intrusive, maybe it is. And while Zuckerberg enthuses that superintelligence will simplify our lives, freeing us up to do the things we really enjoy, it’s going to do the complete opposite for some people.

For example, how would you feel about wearing AI glasses? The Meta CEO says those who choose not to will be “at a cognitive disadvantage” compared to those who do...

We’ll certainly be hearing a lot more about superintelligence from now on. Whether it guides us to some kind of scientific utopia is another matter and achieving it will cost billions of dollars in investment. What is clear is that Meta are determined to be the frontrunners in the pursuit to get there.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.