In a recent public appearance, SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son discussed his vision for the future of artificial intelligence. He introduced the terms Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) and Artificial Super Intelligence (ASI), highlighting the differences between the two. AGI, which is expected to be one to 10 times smarter than humans, is anticipated to arrive in the next three-to-five years. Son emphasized that if AGI is not significantly smarter than humans, there may not be a need to change our way of living. However, the introduction of ASI, which is projected to be 10,000 times smarter than any human genius, will bring about a drastic improvement in various aspects of our lives.
Son elaborated on how the future will see multiple ASI models interacting with each other, drawing a parallel to neurons in a human brain. This interconnected intelligence network is envisioned to revolutionize the way we approach technology and innovation, paving the way for advancements that were previously thought to be unattainable. The prospect of AI being 10,000 times more intelligent than humans opens up a realm of possibilities, challenging conventional norms and pushing the boundaries of what is deemed possible in the field of artificial intelligence.
SoftBank, under the leadership of Masayoshi Son, has been at the forefront of technological investments and advancements. The establishment of the Vision Fund in 2017 marked a significant milestone in the company’s journey towards becoming a tech visionary. Despite encountering setbacks and high-profile failures, such as the case of WeWork, Son displayed resilience and adaptability in steering SoftBank towards a more conservative investment approach. However, with his renewed passion for AI opportunities, Son announced a shift towards an “offensive” strategy, signaling a renewed focus on exploring the potential of artificial intelligence.
In a surprising moment of vulnerability, Son shared his existential thoughts about his purpose in life. He expressed feelings of unfulfillment and a sense of urgency to achieve something significant in his lifetime. Son’s introspective journey led him to discover SoftBank’s mission, which he views as the “evolution of humanity.” He candidly stated that he believes he was born to realize the potential of ASI, underscoring his unwavering commitment to advancing artificial intelligence technologies. Son’s personal quest for meaning and purpose has intertwined with his professional endeavors, shaping SoftBank’s trajectory towards embracing the possibilities of ASI.
Masayoshi Son’s vision for the future of artificial intelligence transcends mere technological advancements. It reflects a profound exploration of human potential and the transformative power of ASI in reshaping society. As SoftBank continues to navigate the ever-changing landscape of technology and innovation, Son’s dedication to realizing the potential of ASI serves as a catalyst for future breakthroughs in artificial intelligence.