AI: The Awkward Tween Stage and Its Bright Spots
What’s scarier than the folklore of Friday the 13th? The unsettling awareness that artificial intelligence (AI) is currently navigating its awkward adolescent phase. This notion was the focus of the latest episode from the TC Equity podcast, featuring hosts Devin Coldewey and Kirsten Korosec, alongside TC reporters Tim De Chant and Dominic-Madori Davis.
AI has become an omnipresent topic in discussions surrounding technology, and this episode was no exception. The debate around AI often oscillates between overhype and under-delivery. A case in point is Apple. Coldewey pointed out on the show that while Apple is showcasing its AI ambitions, the reality remains that these capabilities are more aspirational than operational at the moment. This brings to mind the metaphor of a tween—teetering between potential and actualization.
However, the narrative around AI isn’t purely grim. For example, the Mexico City-based startup, Someone Somewhere, illustrates how AI can be harnessed for social betterment. The company collaborates with rural artisans from some of Mexico’s least affluent regions to produce stylish, handcrafted clothing and accessories. Recently, they utilized AI—specifically the Stable Diffusion text-to-image model—to create visualizations of how their unique designs would evolve if crafted by artisans from various locales. This innovative use of technology attracted substantial attention, showcasing a positive application of AI.
Herein lies the beauty of AI: it can indeed serve as a force for good!
The Equity podcast also explored numerous other topics beyond AI. This included a notable pivot from the autonomous vehicle delivery service Nuro, along with Oura’s strategic acquisition of the metabolic health startup Veri.
In the latter part of the episode, De Chant delved into a compelling trend in climate technology startups, with a particular emphasis on hardware innovations. Davis wrapped up the discussion with insights regarding the Fearless Fund, focusing on the implications of a legal settlement and the subsequent closure of its contentious Strivers Grant program.
Equity continues to be the flagship podcast for TechCrunch, produced by Theresa Loconsolo, with new episodes airing every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
For those looking to stay updated, you can subscribe on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Overcast, and Spotify, or follow the Equity team on X and Threads under the handle @EquityPod. If you prefer reading to listening, check out the complete episode transcripts available on Simplecast.
In conclusion, while AI continues to grapple with maturity, its applications—especially in social innovation—demonstrate significant potential. The ongoing discussions around AI, climate tech, and venture strategies are critical as we navigate this evolving landscape. Understanding the challenges and opportunities can help us steer the future of technology in a positive direction, ensuring that the promise of AI transforms into tangible advancements for society.
