The Facts
Google on Monday unveiled a new AI-powered chatbot tool, dubbed "Bard," in an apparent attempt to rival the recent viral success of the OpenAI-launched chatbot ChatGPT as well as Microsoft's confirmed plans to invest in the technology.
Google and parent company Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai announced the project in a blog post, saying the software will be available to a group of "trusted testers" starting Monday and more widely available to the public "in the coming weeks."
The Spin
Narrative A
This news is the official beginning of the battle royale in AI between Microsoft and Google. Bard and ChatGPT are on the cusp of going toe-to-toe in the marketplace, with vast resources and financial investments behind each. While there are still unanswered questions surrounding AI ethics, it would be wise to follow the money if companies want to be at the forefront of the next technological awakening.
Narrative B
While this is undoubtedly an exciting technology, it's too early to predict how it will impact the search landscape. AI is in its infancy, with many kinks still needing to be worked out. Any progress will likely be slow, casting doubts on whether an AI bonanza is truly around the corner. For now, Google is likely to keep its firm grasp on the market.
Cynical narrative
While our artificially intelligent offspring are in their toddler phases, once AI reaches adulthood, there will be a very significant chance that humanity will be relegated to family pets. Silicon Valley is currently reeling at the prowess of ChatGPT and its endless business opportunities, but the product has opened Pandora's box of existential fear over our future.
