Differentiating between genuine advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and exaggerated claims can be challenging. To address this, the AI Hype Index has been developed as a straightforward summary of the current state of the industry.
Many businesses are increasingly adopting AI, often without a clear understanding of the specific benefits or applications. Commonly used terms like “optimization,” “scaling,” and “maximizing efficiency” are frequently employed to articulate potential outcomes, yet many stakeholders investing significant resources into AI may still find the anticipated returns unclear.
Recent reports highlight several concerning practices within the AI landscape. Some non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and aid agencies have utilized AI technology to create misleading images of suffering individuals to elicit emotional responses on social media platforms. Additionally, AI-driven translation efforts have reportedly produced subpar content, particularly concerning Wikipedia entries in languages at risk of extinction. Furthermore, the establishment of new AI data centers has prompted backlash from local communities affected by resulting power outages and water shortages, raising questions about the infrastructure and sustainability of such developments.
These incidents underscore the need for continued scrutiny regarding AI’s practical applications and implications within various sectors.
Source: https://www.technologyreview.com/2025/10/29/1126834/the-ai-hype-index-data-centers-neighbors-are-pivoting-to-power-blackouts/