At the recent SXSW London festival, Demis Hassabis, CEO of Google DeepMind, announced the development of a next-generation AI tool designed to manage email overload.

This AI-powered system aims to sift through messages, respond to routine emails, and ensure that important communications are not overlooked, addressing a common challenge faced by professionals worldwide.

Hassabis expressed a strong desire to eliminate email clutter, stating he would be willing to pay thousands of dollars monthly for a solution that alleviates this burden.

He envisions the AI tool extending beyond just emails to provide intelligent recommendations and automate chores, effectively acting as a 'cognitive firewall'.

While acknowledging that the immediate impact of AI may be overhyped, Hassabis predicts that the long-term effects could spark a new Industrial Revolution, with artificial general intelligence (AGI) potentially emerging within the next five to ten years.

He believes that achieving AGI could lead to significant advancements, including cures for diseases and the provision of unlimited renewable energy.

Hassabis noted the rapid commercialization of AI technologies, which has shifted the AGI race from academia to tech companies, raising safety and ethical concerns.

He called for collaboration between global powers, particularly the US and China, to ensure that AI development benefits all of humanity and emphasizes the need for safety in this domain.

Despite the potential benefits, concerns remain regarding AI's impact on job security, particularly in administrative roles that may face displacement due to automation.

As AI continues to evolve, there is a pressing need for new skills in the workforce to adapt to the changing job market.

Hassabis recognizes the hype surrounding AI technology, suggesting that it may be exaggerated compared to its current capabilities.

Known for his work on AlphaFold 2, Hassabis is committed to leveraging AI for significant scientific advancements, balancing his corporate responsibilities with noble pursuits.