Where is the AI Boom Going?
The author discusses the current state of AI, two years after ChatGPT's launch, based on observations from trips to the US and Japan. Key points include that while AI applications are making money, no direct competitor to ChatGPT has emerged in terms of revenue. Companies like Meta and Tesla are making progress with specialized AI chips, and new optical packaging technology for chips is emerging. The price of AI API tokens has dropped significantly, similar to historical price reductions in transistors. The future of AI largely depends on the next generation of powerful AI models, like GPT5, which are still awaited. There's also a focus on building massive data centers, indicating continued investment in scaling AI. Finally, Waymo's self-driving cars have become common in some cities, showing that practical autonomous vehicles are now a reality.
Key Vocabulary
To make something an object of political discussion or contention; to bring something into the realm of politics, often implying that it becomes controversial or subject to political influence.
Examples:
- The issue of public education has become increasingly politicized, with different parties proposing vastly different reforms.
- When scientific research becomes politicized, it can be difficult for the public to discern objective facts from partisan agendas.
- The debate over the new urban development project quickly became politicized, dividing the community along ideological lines.
A person who is one of two or more people who establish a new organization or business.
Examples:
- The cofounder of the tech startup gave an inspiring speech about their journey from a garage to a global company.
- As cofounder, she was instrumental in shaping the company's early vision and culture.
- The two friends, both passionate about sustainable energy, became cofounders of a non-profit dedicated to promoting solar power.
A colloquial abbreviation for 'pictures' or 'photographs'.
Examples:
- She scrolled through her phone, showing off the amazing travel pics from her recent trip to the mountains.
- The event photographer promised to upload all the party pics to the website by the end of the week.
- He always takes great pics of national parks, capturing the beauty of nature.
Having or showing impressive beauty, scale, or dignity; grand and imposing.
Examples:
- The majestic waterfall cascaded down the cliff, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle.
- From the mountaintop, the view of the city lights below was truly majestic.
- The ancient castle, with its towering spires and intricate carvings, stood as a majestic testament to medieval architecture.
Common wild and domesticated birds with a stout body, small head, and short legs, often found in urban environments.
Examples:
- The pigeons gathered in the city square, pecking at crumbs left by passersby.
- Many people enjoy feeding the pigeons in the park, despite their reputation for being a nuisance.
- A flock of pigeons suddenly took flight, startling the people sitting on the bench.
A particular routine, style, or gimmick that a person or group is associated with, often used to entertain or attract attention.
Examples:
- The comedian's schtick involved a lot of self-deprecating humor and exaggerated facial expressions.
- Every salesperson seemed to have their own unique schtick for closing a deal.
- His whole schtick is playing the eccentric artist, but offstage, he's quite reserved.
Using or containing too many elaborate or ornate words or phrases; excessively decorative or ornate in style.
Examples:
- The politician's speech was full of flowery language but lacked concrete proposals.
- She preferred simple, direct communication over flowery prose.
- The old novel was written in a very flowery style, common in that era.
Minor problems or flaws; difficulties or imperfections that need to be resolved.
Examples:
- Before the product launch, the team worked tirelessly to iron out all the kinks in the software.
- The new manufacturing process had a few kinks that needed to be addressed before full production could begin.
- Despite a few initial kinks, the event ran smoothly and was a great success.
Used metaphorically, to describe a very forceful or drastic method or approach, often implying it is crude or excessive.
Examples:
- Instead of using a nuanced approach, the company took a sledgehammer to the problem, cutting all non-essential spending.
- His critics argued that the new policy was a sledgehammer approach to a complex issue, causing more harm than good.
- Sometimes, a sledgehammer is necessary to break through stubborn resistance and achieve a breakthrough.
In this context, refers to entities or companies that take small, incremental pieces of market share or business from a larger competitor.
Examples:
- The established tech giant faced increasing competition from a new wave of agile nibblers in the market.
- Small startups, acting as nibblers, slowly chipped away at the dominant company's customer base.
- These niche businesses are becoming significant nibblers, forcing larger corporations to innovate or lose ground.
Approaching; happening soon.
Examples:
- The company is preparing for its upcoming annual conference, which will feature several prominent speakers.
- She is diligently studying for her upcoming exams, hoping to achieve high marks.
- Fans are eagerly anticipating the upcoming release of the highly awaited film.
A colloquial abbreviation for 'administration' or 'administrative tasks', referring to routine organizational or clerical duties.
Examples:
- She spent most of her morning catching up on various admin tasks, including scheduling meetings and responding to emails.
- The new software is designed to reduce the amount of time spent on daily admin for small businesses.
- Efficient handling of admin is crucial for maintaining a smooth workflow in any office.
To exchange one thing for another.
Examples:
- They decided to swap seats so that everyone could get a better view of the stage.
- I need to swap my old phone for a newer model soon.
- The two colleagues agreed to swap shifts next week to accommodate their personal appointments.
Devices that combine a transmitter and a receiver into a single unit, used for sending and receiving signals.
Examples:
- Fiber optic transceivers are essential components in high-speed data communication networks.
- The radio system relies on powerful transceivers to maintain clear communication over long distances.
- Engineers are constantly working to improve the efficiency and range of wireless transceivers.
The official launch or introduction of a new product, service, or system.
Examples:
- The company announced a nationwide rollout of its new electric vehicle charging stations.
- The software update's rollout was phased, starting with a small group of users before expanding to everyone.
- The successful rollout of the new public transport system significantly reduced traffic congestion.
A new company or organization that has emerged from a larger entity, often utilizing its technology or expertise.
Examples:
- The research department's innovative project eventually became a successful spinoff company.
- The university encouraged its faculty to create spinoffs from their academic work to commercialize new technologies.
- After years of development, the experimental division was launched as an independent spinoff.
A thin slice of semiconductor material, such as silicon, used in the fabrication of integrated circuits.
Examples:
- The quality of the silicon wafer is critical for the performance of the microchips produced.
- Advanced manufacturing techniques allow for the production of incredibly thin and pure wafers.
- Engineers inspect each wafer carefully for defects before the next stage of chip fabrication.
Moving in a showy, confident, or elaborate way, often with a swaying motion.
Examples:
- The models were sashaying down the runway, showcasing the latest fashion designs.
- He was sashaying into the room as if he owned the place, radiating an air of self-importance.
- She sashayed across the dance floor, captivating everyone with her graceful movements.
To deal with something in a confused or inefficient way; to struggle through a difficult or complex situation.
Examples:
- Without a clear plan, the team could only muddle through the project, making slow progress.
- He tried to muddle through the complicated instructions, but eventually had to ask for help.
- The company risked muddling through its financial difficulties if it didn't adopt a more decisive strategy.
Characterized by physical force or strength, often implying a lack of subtlety or refinement; raw and powerful.
Examples:
- The security team relied on brute force to open the jammed door.
- Solving the complex mathematical problem required a brute-force approach, testing every possible combination.
- The construction workers moved the heavy beams with brute strength and coordinated effort.