Masayoshi Son, the founder and CEO of Softbank, a prominent Japanese investment company, has expressed his belief that artificial intelligence (AI) will surpass human intelligence significantly by the next decade. He predicts that by 2030, AI could be one to ten times smarter than humans and by 2035, it could be 10,000 times more intelligent. His remarks came during Softbank’s annual meeting in Tokyo on June 21, where he addressed employees with what has been described as a heartfelt speech outlining the company’s future priorities.
A focal point of Son’s address was Softbank’s commitment to developing what is referred to as “artificial super intelligence” (ASI). This ambitious goal aims to create an intelligence that could drastically alter human life. Son also touched on the concept of artificial general intelligence (AGI) during his talk. He explained that an AGI would function at a genius-level human capacity, potentially up to ten times more intelligent. In stark contrast, an ASI would operate at a level 10,000 times beyond human capabilities, venturing far beyond the limitations of the human brain.
It’s important to note that as of now, there is no scientific consensus about the potential capabilities of AGI or ASI. Current AI technology has not yet achieved a level of reasoning equivalent to human intelligence. The existing AI systems that can think or reason like humans remain within the realm of theory and speculation.
Son’s discussion about the future didn’t stop at AI advancements. He also spoke about Softbank’s trajectory and reflected on his own life’s mission. This personal reflection seemed to unsettle some investors, leading to a three percent dip in Softbank’s share price by the close of trading on the Tokyo stock exchange after the meeting.
In a video clip from the event, Son shared a poignant realization he had two years ago about growing older and his desire to accomplish more meaningful work before his life ends. He rhetorically questioned, “SoftBank was founded for what purpose? For what purpose was Masa Son born?”
In what might seem an unusual statement to some, Son articulated his belief that his true purpose in life is to bring about the realization of ASI. He stressed his dedication to this goal, stating, “I am super serious about it.”
This vision of future AI has profound implications, not just for Softbank, but for the world at large. If ASI or even AGI were to be realized, it could revolutionize various aspects of life, from how we work and live to how we solve complex problems that are currently beyond human capability.
Son’s ambitious vision for AI underscores a broader trend among tech leaders and companies that are increasingly focused on pushing the boundaries of what artificial intelligence can achieve. The journey towards such advanced AI systems is fraught with challenges, scientific debates, and ethical considerations.
While some may view Son’s vision with skepticism, it is clear that Softbank is setting bold goals for itself under his leadership. Whether these aspirations will be realized remains to be seen, but the commitment to advancing AI technology is a significant indicator of the company’s future direction.
AI 10,000 times smarter than humans by 2035? 🤯 Masayoshi Son’s vision is out of this world!
Masayoshi Sons drive to bring ASI to life is simply remarkable! Excited about Softbanks future.
Masayoshi Son’s vision for ASI is groundbreaking! 🌠 Can’t wait to see Softbank’s journey in AI.
Before we start claiming AI will surpass humans, lets get some basic AI tasks working properly in the real world. This is just outlandish.
Softbanks commitment to AI under Masayoshi Sons guidance is truly inspiring! Cant wait to see the outcomes.
Wow, what a bold vision Masayoshi Son has for AI! Softbank is definitely a company to watch.
Just because you can dream it doesn’t mean it’s feasible. Son’s comments feel more like science fiction than a viable business strategy.
Son’s speech felt more like a motivational seminar than a realistic business strategy. AI 10,000 times smarter than humans? Give me a break!
Seriously? AI being 10,000 times smarter than humans by 2035 feels more like science fiction than reality. This is just creating unnecessary hype!
Masayoshi Son is charting an amazing course for AI! Cant wait to see where this journey leads.
Bold statements from Masayoshi Son! 🚀 Very excited to see the future of AI with Softbank leading the charge.
His reflections on life and purpose during a business meeting were inappropriate and unprofessional. Stick to facts and realistic goals!
Inspiring speech by Masayoshi Son! 🌟 His vision for AI’s future is revolutionary. 🌐
Masayoshi Son’s vision for AI is truly inspiring! The future looks exciting with these advancements.
Masayoshi Son’s heartfelt dedication to AIs development is amazing! Looking forward to the future.
Way too much ego and wild speculation in Sons speech. Softbank should focus on achievable goals rather than these far-fetched dreams.
Ambitious and exciting goals from Masayoshi Son! AI advancements like these can change the world.
Incredibly inspiring address by Masayoshi Son! His dedication to pushing the boundaries of AI is just wow.
Such a visionary speech by Masayoshi Son! The future of AI looks promising with leaders like him.
Such an inspiring vision shared by Masayoshi Son! AI has an exciting future ahead with Softbank.
Playing on fears and unrealistic expectations about AI can have serious ethical implications. This is deceptive and potentially dangerous.
Softbank is on the cutting edge of technology thanks to Masayoshi Son! Excited to see what the future holds. 🌐💡
Focusing so heavily on something as speculative as ASI might make Softbank lose sight of more realistic and immediate opportunities.
AI surpassing human intelligence by such a huge margin within a decade is just absurd. Why create panic over something so speculative?
Amazing insights from Son-san! 🌟 It makes me excited and hopeful for the future of AI.
Softbank is in great hands with Masayoshi Son’s visionary leadership! 🌟 Excited for what’s to come in AI.
Masayoshi Sons belief in AI surpassing human intelligence is both thrilling and thought-provoking!
Hats off to Masayoshi Son for his incredible vision! 🎩 The future of AI is so bright. 🌟
It’s unsettling that someone with so much influence is pushing an agenda based on unproven science. We need more responsible leadership in tech.
Masayoshi Sons AI goals are awe-inspiring! His dedication to pushing the boundaries is commendable.
Masayoshi Sons dedication to AI development is inspiring! Can’t wait to see these advancements come to life.
Can we please focus on solving current AI issues before jumping to these wild claims about superintelligence? This is just irresponsible.
Son’s super serious remark about ASI feels like he’s playing God. This obsession with AI superiority could have harmful repercussions.
Masayoshi Sons speech is so inspiring! His vision for AI is revolutionary.
Incredible to hear about Softbanks bold AI ambitions! Masayoshi Son is truly a visionary.
Dropping stock prices right after his speech says a lot. Investors are clearly not buying into this over-the-top AI fantasy.