Google's chatbot, Bard, has sparked debates about the future of AI and its potential impact on traditional search. While some have suggested that chatbots like Bard and ChatGPT could threaten Google's dominant position in search, users have found that the information provided by these chatbots can be inaccurate or even fabricated.
Google's UK boss, Debbie Weinstein, emphasized that Bard should be considered an "experiment" focused on collaboration and idea generation, rather than a reliable source for specific information. She encouraged users to verify the information from Bard by using Google's search engine.
Despite Bard's disclaimer about its limitations, the emergence of AI-powered chatbots has led to broader discussions about AI's implications on the workforce and humanity. While some argue that the fears surrounding AI are exaggerated, Google's acknowledgement that Bard cannot be trusted for basic search tasks bolsters the skeptics' stance.
To address the lack of understanding about AI's potential, Google is launching a free online training series called New Fundamentals. The tech giant also highlighted the critical shortage of tech skills in the UK, which could hinder equitable growth, particularly as demand for AI and other tech expertise rises.
Google's report indicated a surge in search interest for AI-related topics, such as "how to make money with AI" and "how can AI help a business?" This underscores the need for more accessible education and practical skills to harness AI's incredible benefits.
Overall, the rise of Bard and other AI-driven technologies prompts a call for responsible AI development and education to empower individuals and businesses to embrace AI opportunities effectively.
