AI Has Potential To Unlock New Scientific Discoveries: Pichai
New Delhi: On Thursday, Google and Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai announced that artificial intelligence (AI) is ushering in an era of “hyperprogress” that has the potential to unlock new scientific discoveries and help emerging economies bypass traditional stages of development. “No technology has enabled him to dream bigger than AI, highlighting its transformative potential in science, education and economic growth,” Pichai said while speaking at the AI Impact Summit here.
Recalling his previous announcement, Pichai also said that Google will build four new undersea fiber optic cable systems between India and the US, positioning the project as the cornerstone of its broader artificial intelligence and digital infrastructure expansion. He also outlined an ambitious vision for AI, calling it the biggest platform shift of our lifetimes and calling on governments, companies and institutions to pursue the technology boldly and responsibly.
“This is the biggest platform shift of our lifetime. We are on the cusp of hyperprogress and new discoveries that can help emerging economies overcome inheritance gaps. But this outcome is neither guaranteed nor automatic. To create artificial intelligence that is truly useful for everyone. We must pursue it boldly, approach it responsibly, and work together through this decisive moment,” he said.
Pichai said that Google has established a fully equipped artificial intelligence center in Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh as part of its previously announced $15 billion infrastructure investment in India. “The facility will host gigawatt-scale computing capacity and a new international subsea cable gateway aimed at expanding jobs and AI access across the country,” he said.
“Technology provides incredible benefits, but we must ensure that everyone has access to them. We cannot allow the digital divide to turn into an AI divide. This means investing in computing infrastructure and connectivity,” he said, citing the Vizag investment as well as investments in countries such as Thailand and Malaysia.
“We are also building an extensive undersea fiber optic cable network between the United States and India, including four new systems, as part of our America-India connectivity initiative.
Artificial intelligence will undeniably reshape the workforce by automating some roles, enhancing others, and creating entirely new careers. “20 years ago the concept of professional YouTube creators did not exist, and today there are millions of them around the world,” he added.
Pichai also said AI is being used in health, agriculture and language engagement initiatives, citing partnerships in El Salvador to expand access to AI-powered medical diagnostics and in India, where AI-powered monsoon forecasts are being delivered to millions of farmers. “We cannot allow the digital divide to turn into an artificial intelligence divide,” he said, emphasizing the importance of expanding computing infrastructure and connections globally.
