Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt became the umpteenth technology figure who criticized the metaverse concept developed by Facebook/Meta. He also expressed concern about the future of artificial intelligence.
In an interview with the New York Times, Schmidt did not deny that metaverse technology will be everywhere. But he warns that this technology will not necessarily be the best thing for society.
"Everyone who talks about the metaverse is talking about a world that's more fulfilling than today's world -- you're richer, more handsome, prettier, more powerful, faster," Schmidt told the New York Times. (1/11/2021).
"So, in a few years, people will be spending their time with goggles in the metaverse. And who will make the rules? The world is going to be more digital than physical. And that's not necessarily going to be a good thing for humans." .
Schmidt's comments were made shortly after Facebook announced its name change to Meta. The new name was chosen to emphasize the company's focus on developing the metaverse and moving away from its image as a social media company.
Metaverse itself is a virtual place where people can interact digitally using avatars. Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg says the metaverse will be the future of the internet and its companies.
Schmidt also said he views artificial intelligence (AI), which Meta uses to run algorithms across all of its platforms, as a 'false god' that can create unhealthy relationships.
"What does AI's best friend look like, especially to a child? What does AI-powered war look like? Does AI understand aspects of reality that we don't perceive? Is it possible for AI to see things humans can't?" said Schmidt.
