Friday2: Stephen Hawking, Luck and Digital Paper

I've written a few times about artificial intelligence. Obviously I'm very interested in sci-fi and the ideas and technology related to the future. Nevertheless, I think there have been more AI articles than typical recently. One that I read today draws particular attention because of who wrote it; Stephen Hawking. Yes, the master physicist has weighed in on the AI topic. He warns that artificial intelligence could quickly grow out of our control. We have no way to anticipate the kind of leaps or advances that could take place once artificial intelligence is achieved. And he sees our current efforts to prepare for the "singularity" or advent of AI as minimal and insufficient. He gives the analogy that if an advanced alien civilization were to contact us and tell us they would arrive at earth in a few decades would we sit idle and do nothing to prepare? Of course not, it would be "all hands on deck" for all sectors. That is what he likens the coming of AI to and yet we aren't giving any preparation to it.

Some may argue that the real possibility of AI is remote and still seated in science fiction. Others would argue that even if AI did come, it wouldn't be a serious issue. While it is hard to plan for uncertain futures, it is important to look at all possibilities of our future and the probable outcomes of our current course. AI is likely to become real, and we need to be ready for it.

To the more trivial subjects. A Russian man was highlighted in the news because of his extraordinary luck. He has survived a plane crash, multiple car, and train crashes and many near-death incidents and come out alive. And now, he has won a million dollar lottery. If your curious as to what his fate will be in the future please talk with Bruce Willis and M. Night Shyamalan.

I saw a very cool prototype of a technology that uses bendable screens, almost like paper. It has all the full capabilities of a smart phone but is comes in 3 folded and flexible panels. Folding out the panels in various configurations will let you switch between different functionality such as map viewing, duel screen sharing and much more.

Have a great weekend and don't forget Star Wars Day! May the force be with you!