Advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) may lead to the creation of sex dolls that appear to be “alive” and dating sites flooded with realistic AI avatars, according to former Google X chief business officer Mo Gawdat. In an interview with the Impact Theory podcast, Gawdat suggested that the convergence of AI, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) could potentially revolutionize love and relationships.
Gawdat pointed out that alternative sexual activities, such as VR simulations, already exist and are becoming increasingly realistic. He noted that sex primarily happens in the brain and that the physical aspect can be easily simulated. Gawdat challenged the idea that humans need physical companionship by highlighting the potential of technologies like Neuralink, which connects directly to the nervous system. He questioned the necessity of human partners if AI can convincingly replicate a living experience.
One of Gawdat’s key points was that sensations of companionship and sexuality are all processed in the brain. He suggested that it should theoretically be possible to simulate these experiences using AI, similar to how scientists can currently simulate muscle movements and other brain signals.
The former Google executive dismissed the ongoing debate about whether AI can achieve sentience or how humans should interact with it. Gawdat argued that the perception of authenticity is what matters, stating, “Does it matter if the Morgan Freeman talking to you on the screen is actually Morgan Freeman or an AI-generated avatar if you’re convinced that it is Morgan Freeman?”
Gawdat also acknowledged the commercial incentives for further developing AI technology, particularly in the dating industry. He mentioned apps like Replica, which uses AI chatbots to mimic users’ writing styles and develop emotional connections with them. Replica already boasts around 2 million users. Gawdat pondered the possibility of future dating apps providing AI avatars for users to interact with, suggesting that many people would be interested in trying it.
However, Gawdat admitted uncertainty about the implications of these advancements, describing them as “eerie.” He emphasized that the impact of AI on society, relationships, and human experiences could be significant but remains open to interpretation.
In conclusion, Mo Gawdat believes that the integration of AI, VR, and AR could potentially reshape love and relationships. He envisions a future where sex dolls appear alive and dating apps introduce avatars for users to interact with. Gawdat acknowledges the already existing technologies and their realistic simulations. However, he highlights the importance of the perception of authenticity and raises questions about the necessity of human companionship. While the commercial incentives for further AI development in the dating industry are apparent, he openly admits uncertainty about whether these advancements would ultimately be beneficial or unsettling. Only time will tell how AI will transform society and reshape human connections.
Source link
