Is Google Duplex Too Real?

We’re living in the future. If you needed a reminder of this, you need look no further than the prevalence of artificial intelligence on the cusp of becoming indistinguishable from humans. At their I/O 2018 conference, Google showcased their new Duplex technology. Duplex allows Google Assistant to make phone calls for you to set up appointments and reservations. The unique trick here is just how lifelike and eerie the Assistant sounds on the phone. It says “umm,” and “mmm-hmm.” It uses upward-lilting speech to sound authentic. It sounds completely human.

How Far is too Far?

Google claims that the Duplex technology will identify itself as such when it goes live. This, at least, covers our initial fears that people will be unaware that they are interacting with artificial intelligence. However, the presence of this technology alone could be cause for concern: what if another, less responsible company develops similar technology? What if scammers steal the technology and use it to operate elaborate phone scams? The potential for abuse is certainly high. It remains to be seen what protections Google has in place for this lifelike AI.

So What?

Maybe you don’t mind the idea of lifelike-sounding machines calling you. If they sound human and I’m not aware that they’re machines, so what? Why should I care? Google already promised it would even identify itself! To which I would say: I don’t think we need to worry about Duplex itself. I thoroughly believe Google will be responsible with this tech, if only because all eyes are on them. They are a leader in AI research and this is a pioneering piece of technology that many will likely follow. As such, I have no doubt Google will toe the line and act ethically with their new tech. The question remains, though: will those that follow do the same? Now that the door is open, who knows what kind of potential for misuse of this technology puts on the table.

This is Just the Beginning

Either way, Google is not alone in pushing the boundaries of AI applications. Microsoft and Facebook are also pursuing the future of AI in attempts to make their products synonymous with the burgeoning tech. These companies and others like them are all racing to hit the market with the most lifelike, the most impressive and least detectible AI before their competition. We can only hope they temper their haste to be the first to market with a desire to act ethically and responsibly with technology that will change the way we interact with our world.