Recent discussions surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) emphasize a shift in expectations regarding its capabilities and applications. This topic is central to a new series titled “Hype Correction,” which examines the current state of AI and its perceived value.
While AI continues to generate significant interest, the series suggests a critical reassessment of what AI can realistically achieve. It raises key questions about the long-term implications of this technology, including whether it justifies the substantial financial and environmental costs associated with its development and deployment.
Contributors to the series include Will Douglas Heaven, who reflects on the diminishing “wow factor” of AI, prompting inquiry into its future relevance. The series also features James O’Donnell’s exploration of Sam Altman’s role in promoting AI, analyzing his perspectives on the technology through his own statements. Additionally, Alex Heath discusses the concept of the “AI bubble,” exploring its significance and the factors that should be monitored.
Michelle Kim addresses a prominent claim in the AI discourse, which suggests that AI may eliminate certain job categories. Specifically, she questions whether advancements like ChatGPT could replace professionals such as lawyers, concluding that this outcome is not imminent. Similarly, Edd Gent evaluates the reliability of AI in coding, indicating that its effectiveness remains uncertain. David Rotman further investigates the challenges that must be overcome in the realm of materials science before AI can achieve major breakthroughs.
Overall, the series calls for a more grounded understanding of AI’s potential and its limits, encouraging an ongoing dialogue about the technology’s role in society.
Source: https://www.technologyreview.com/2025/12/16/1129946/why-its-time-to-reset-our-expectations-for-ai/