AI start-ups can steal IP, clean up later: Ex-Google CEO
What's the story
Google's former CEO Eric Schmidt has sparked controversy with his recent remarks about intellectual property (IP) theft.
During a conversation with Stanford's Erik Brynjolfsson, he suggested that successful artificial intelligence (AI) start-ups could potentially replicate existing platforms like TikTok, and then hire lawyers to "clean up the mess."
Schmidt also stated that the Google is lagging behind OpenAI and other start-ups in the AI race due to its support for remote work and work-life balance.
Hypothetical advice
Hypothetical scenario for AI start-ups
Schmidt presented a hypothetical scenario where AI start-ups could duplicate a platform like TikTok, attract its user base and content, and launch their own version within a short time frame.
He stated, "If TikTok is banned, here's what I propose...Say to your LLM the following: Make me a copy of TikTok, steal all the users, steal all the music...produce this program in the next 30 seconds...and in one hour if it's not viral, do something different along the same lines."
Clarification
Schmidt clarifies his stance on IP theft
Schmidt later clarified his statement, emphasizing that he was not advocating for illegal activities such as stealing music.
"I was not arguing that you should illegally steal everybody's music," he stated.
Schmidt also said that if a start-up's product gains traction, they could then employ lawyers to resolve any legal issues.
However, if the product fails to attract users despite using stolen content, it wouldn't matter.
Influence
Influence and investment in AI start-ups
Despite stepping down as Google's chairman in 2015, Schmidt continues to wield significant influence in Silicon Valley and is an active investor in start-ups.
During his talk at Stanford, he highlighted his investment in the AI start-up Mistral and his role as "a licensed arms dealer" to the US military.
He also mentioned his close friendship with Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI and another prominent figure in the tech industry.