Zuckerberg criticizes closed-source AI competitors for attempting to “create God”

In a recent interview published on Thursday, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg shared his perspective on the future of AI, emphasizing his belief that there won’t be just one dominant AI. He highlighted the importance of open-source principles in democratizing AI tools, contrasting this with unnamed competitors whom he criticized for hoarding technology and envisioning themselves as creating something akin to a deity.

“I don’t think that AI technology is something that should be hoarded by one company to build a single, central product,” Zuckerberg remarked in a YouTube interview with Kane Sutter (@Kallaway). “I find it off-putting when people in the tech industry talk about creating this ‘one true AI,'” he continued. “It’s almost like they think they’re creating God or something — that’s not our approach.”

Zuckerberg went on to discuss the diversity of AI applications and the need for multiple AIs catering to different interests and uses. He drew parallels to the diversity seen in consumer preferences for apps, content creators, and businesses, emphasizing that technological evolution typically involves a range of innovations rather than a singular, monopolistic solution.

Meta also announced the early testing of its AI Studio software in the U.S., aimed at enabling creators to develop AI avatars for interaction through Instagram’s messaging system. These AI avatars will be capable of answering questions and engaging users in a playful manner, with clear labeling to prevent confusion about their non-human identity.