What Did Google Do This Week?

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GEMINI 2.0: MORE LEAPFROG, LESS LEAP FORWARD

Google is developing a new AI tool capable of autonomously managing computer tasks. Planned for launch alongside Gemini 2.0 in December, the tool will eventually perform actions on behalf of users, such as booking tickets, drafting emails, or managing files, all based on simple text prompts. Just like Anthropic’s ‘Claude’ model announced it can do…errr…this week. See a pattern? Google is, like the rest of the AI industry, pumping out updates in an endless game of leapfrog to remain relevant and keep the media and shareholders happy. The truth is, in many ways, each (Google, Meta, Amazon) is behind OpenAI, and each has better points than OpenAI.

Google is also thinking differently when it comes to AI. The company announced it will begin watermark AI-generated text, a move aimed at making it easier to identify content created by AI. The tool is part of Google’s ongoing efforts to promote responsible AI use to the masses. Watermarking tech isn’t visible to the naked eye but can be detected by specific tools, allowing platforms and users to track the origin of AI-generated content more reliably. A big step for transparency in the AI world, where the blurred line between human and machine-generated content has so far been a point of contention for all concerned.

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SO WHAT?

As Google unveils Gemini 2.0, it’s clear that the AI giants, including OpenAI, are locked in a constant release cycle more about market presence than real progress. Frequent updates often serve to generate headlines rather than drive true innovation, with each release prioritising competition and market dominance over impactful advancements.

December’s releases, Gemini 2.0 (maybe) and OpenAI’s Orion (double maybe), strategically aim to set standards before regulations tighten, emphasising the race to establish ‘firsts’ and win clients over meaningful (and exhausting) user-centric improvements. OpenAI is making moves to make itself lean and fast removing safety/security teams, others have clearly taken note.

For businesses, especially in sectors like healthcare and law, any rapid update cycle is exhausting on staff, resources and focus. Updates demand constant adaptation, often yielding small benefits while leaving critical needs unmet or partially met. The AI hype machine pushes the narrative that more updates equal progress, but without regulation, Google, Meta, Amazon, and OpenAI dominate the AI landscape unchecked in a landscape of walled gardens. The question staring us all in the face more than ever: Is this an AI arms race for true utility or just a corporate power play?

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