The State of AI: A projection for the world in 2030
There exists a wide disparity of views on the imminent effects of generative AI. In one perspective, proponents suggest that the AI influence in the upcoming decade will surpass that of the Industrial Revolution—a period of socio-economic transformation lasting 150 years that forms the framework of our contemporary world.
Conversely, we encounter the ‘Normal Technology’ camp: analysts who challenge not just these predictions but also the core assumptions underpinning them. They contend that this isn’t how technological evolution occurs.
While breakthroughs may emerge rapidly at the forefront, transformation throughout the broader economy and society a considerable advance happens at human pace. The universal embrace of emerging technologies can be gradual; acceptance often even slower. AI will not be an exception. How should we interpret these contrasting viewpoints?
Explore the complete dialogue featuring Will Douglas Heaven, senior AI editor at MIT Technology Review and Tim Bradshaw, global tech correspondent for FT, discussing the future trajectory of AI and the anticipated state of our world over the next five years.
This marks the concluding edition of The State of AI, a partnership between the Financial Times and MIT Technology Review. Read the rest of the series, and if you wish to stay informed about developments in the AI landscape, subscribe to our complimentary Algorithm newsletter issued every Monday.
How AI is transforming the economy
There’s a significant amount at stake in grasping how AI is reshaping the broader economy. What perspective should we adopt? Gather with Mat Honan, editor in chief, David Rotman, editor at large, and Richard Waters, FT columnist, at 1pm ET today to hear their insights on the developments across various sectors and the market. Join now to participate in this exclusive event for subscribers.
The essential reads
I have scoured the web for today’s most interesting/important/terrifying/captivating technology stories.
1 Trump announces an executive order preventing states from regulating AI
However, resistance is mounting, even from his party affiliates. (CNN)
+ This entire controversy can be pinned back to congressional inaction. (Semafor)
2 Google’s innovative smart glasses are receiving positive feedback 👓
Expected availability is in 2026. Apple and Meta should be wary. (Tech Radar)
3 Trump approved Nvidia’s sale of advanced AI chips to China
The US receives a 25% portion of the transactions—but what are the long-term implications? (WP $)
+ What potential benefits could China reap? NYT $)
+ How a leading Chinese AI model navigated US restrictions. MIT Technology Review)
4 The backlash against data centers in America is underway
Residents across political lines are frustrated with skyrocketing electricity expenses. (Vox $)
+ Over 200 environmental organizations are calling for a nationwide halt on new data centers. (The Guardian)
+ The surge of data centers in the desert. (MIT Technology Review)
5 A significant portion of teens are utilizing AI chatbots for mental health assistance
In light of the scarcity of real-life support systems, can they be blamed? (The Guardian)
+ Therapists are discreetly employing ChatGPT. Clients are finding it triggering. (MIT Technology Review)
6 ICEBlock is taking legal action against the US government over its removal from the App Store
The creator claims that the actions of the Department of Justice infringe upon his First Amendment rights. (404 Media)
+ It is one of several ICE-monitoring applications to be removed by tech companies recently. (MIT Technology Review)
7 This band has left Spotify, but AI copycats are taking their place
The platform appears to be combating a barrage of inferior content. (Futurism)
+ AI is also encroaching on the music industry.(MIT Technology Review)
8 Believe you’re unaffected by online advertising? Reconsider
If you’re active on social media, you are being marketed to. Nonstop. (The Verge $)
9 The public is largely dissatisfied with Microsoft Copilot
It resembles Clippy, but it’s even harder to dismiss. (Quartz $)
10 The longest solar eclipse of the past century is approaching
And we only have to wait until 2027 to experience it! (Wired $)
Quote of the day
“Governments and lawmakers are undermining their credibility by catering to technology conglomerates, which sends a clear message to young individuals that their future is not valued.”
—Adele Zeynep Walton, a founding member of the online safety advocacy group Ctrl+Alt+Reclaim, remarks to The Guardian regarding the reasons behind the rise of youth activism.
A final note
At every moment of every day, individuals are typing in Chinese. While the process appears slightly different from typing in English—users typically input the pronunciation of a character and then select it from a dropdown list, akin to an autocomplete feature—it seems like a commonplace activity. The software enabling this operates largely unnoticed by its users. It simply exists.
What has largely been overlooked is that a diverse group of quirky personalities, linguists, engineers, and polymaths dedicated a significant part of the 20th century grappling with the challenge of how Chinese could transition from traditional ink brushes to other mediums.
—Veronique Greenwood
