Bill Gates believes that it is crucial for everyone to start working with AI tools now, as the technology advances rapidly. In a conversation about the future, he emphasized the importance of being able to work well with AI, stating that it is now more important than understanding Excel or the internet. The upcoming docuseries, What’s Next? The Future with Bill Gates, explores various issues including AI, misinformation, income inequality, the climate crisis, and global health, featuring insights from a diverse group of experts and activists.
Gates acknowledges the potential impact of AI on jobs and social activities, emphasizing the need for ongoing discussions on how to manage these changes. He believes that AI can help address shortages in certain professions, but also stresses the importance of setting limits and considering human involvement in certain tasks. Gates sees these conversations as essential as the nature of work evolves with AI.
In addition to AI, the docuseries also delves into the challenges of misinformation in the digital world. Gates reflects on the difficulties of finding trustworthy information online, especially as false narratives and conspiracy theories continue to spread. While he doesn’t have a definitive solution for tackling misinformation, Gates believes that establishing systems to identify the creators of content could help in addressing this issue.
The series also highlights Gates’ efforts in tackling climate change, emphasizing the need for innovation in industries like steel and cement manufacturing. Gates’ Breakthrough Energy venture aims to fund projects in these areas, as well as drive awareness and demand for low-carbon products. He stresses the importance of wealthier nations leading the way in supporting clean tech efforts, in order to eventually make sustainable products more affordable for all consumers worldwide.