Bill Gates Declares OpenAI’s GPT the Most Revolutionary Advance in Technology Since 1980
Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has described OpenAI’s GPT model as the most important advance in technology since the introduction of graphical user interface (GUI) in 1980. Before GUI, people used computers through a command line, but Gates took GUI technology and based Windows around it, creating a modern-day software juggernaut. Now, Gates believes OpenAI’s GPT models have the same revolutionary potential, capable of writing text that resembles human output and generating nearly usable computer code.
In a recent blog post, Gates shared his experience of challenging OpenAI’s team to develop an AI model that could pass the Advanced Placement Biology exam. GPT-4, which was released to the public last week, scored the maximum score, according to OpenAI. Gates wrote that “the whole experience was stunning” and that he knew he had just seen the most important advance in technology since the graphical user interface.
Gates joins former Google CEO Eric Schmidt and former Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos in predicting that data-based machine learning could change entire industries. Current CEOs also see major business opportunities in AI applications and tools. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said on Tuesday that the field is experiencing an “iPhone moment,” referring to the time when a new technology becomes widely adopted and entrepreneurs see opportunities for new businesses and products.
Gates and Microsoft have close ties to OpenAI, which developed the GPT model. Microsoft invested $10 billion in the startup and sells some of its AI software through Azure cloud services. Gates suggests that people talking about AI should “balance fears” of biased, wrong or unfriendly tools with its potential to improve lives. He also believes governments and philanthropies should back AI tools to improve education and health in the developing world, because companies won’t necessarily choose to make those investments themselves.
In conclusion, Gates’ endorsement of OpenAI’s GPT model as the most important advance in technology since GUI is significant. AI and machine learning have the potential to revolutionize industries and transform the way people work, learn, travel, get healthcare, and communicate with each other. As AI continues to develop, it is essential that individuals, companies, and governments consider its potential impact and opportunities.