In this episode of AI-Curious, Jeff Wilser dives into his experience at TechCrunch Disrupt (aka “DorkFest 2024”), exploring AI’s trajectory from hype to real-world impact. With 99% of companies showcasing some form of AI, Jeff unpacks the crowded landscape, from AI infrastructure to flashy generative AI tools. Here’s what you’ll hear:

Main Topics Covered:

TechCrunch Disrupt & AI’s Ubiquity

•Flying cars, self-driving cars, and “non-human employees” headline Dorkfest 2024.

•Reflecting on how AI has taken over the tech industry and the potential future of AI startups.

•The competitive nature among AI giants like OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google DeepMind.

Behind the Scenes: AI Startups and Industry Consolidation

•Why many AI startups focus on infrastructure over “shiny objects” like generative AI.

•Predictions for consolidation within the AI space and potential impacts on innovation.

3 Quick Things: This Week in AI News

1.ChatGPT with Search – OpenAI’s latest feature brings real-time web access, potentially disrupting traditional search engines like Google and Perplexity.

2.AI Deepfakes & 2024 Election – As of November 4th, deepfakes have not heavily influenced the U.S. election, despite prior concerns.

3.Time Magazine’s “Best Inventions of the Year” – Jeff shares his insights from writing for Time’s annual list, focusing on how AI is driving real solutions, from healthcare documentation to farming and cancer treatment.