google introduces google duplex, an artificial intelligence assistant that will carry out human-computer conversations to complete ‘real world’ tasks such as scheduling appointments or making table reservations. the new feature is promoted as a way of enhancing users’ lives and lessening language barrier issues, however users’ reactions have been mixed.

google duplex mimics human voice to carry out 'real world' tasks over the phone

image courtesy of google ai blog

 

 

“we understand and value the discussion around google duplex — as we’ve said from the beginning, transparency in the technology is important,’ google stated in an effort to ease concerns regarding ethics and morality, ‘we are designing this feature with disclosure built-in, and we’ll make sure the system is appropriately identified.’ this means that while the feature will mimic one’s human voice to make phone calls on his/her behalf, the real person on the other end will be receive some sort of announcement notifying them that they are talking to an AI.  the product is still in development, while it was introduced by google CEO sundar pichai earlier this week using a pre-recorded phone call.