AI Presentations: The Brave vs. the Cowardly
A recent trend in the tech industry is the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in live demonstrations at major events. These presentations often showcase the capabilities of AI technology, but they also come with the risk of technical glitches and failures.
Some companies, however, have chosen to take a different approach by prerecording their keynote presentations, effectively avoiding the unpredictability of live demos. While this may seem like a safe bet, I believe it is a cowardly move that lacks the authenticity and realness of live presentations.
The Case of Google's Gemini Demo
At a past Made by Google event, Google's Gemini AI failed twice during a live demonstration. While such mishaps can be embarrassing for companies, they also demonstrate transparency and authenticity.
However, at a recent Android Show: I/O Edition, Google chose to prerecord its presentation, delivering a highly scripted and polished performance that felt artificial and inauthentic.
The Illusion of Perfection
During the prerecorded Android Show: I/O Edition, Gemini flawlessly demonstrated various tasks, such as sharing makeup tips and providing summaries of literary works.
While these interactions appeared seamless, they failed to reflect the reality of AI technology, which often makes mistakes. According to LiveBench, Google's Gemini 2.5 Pro Preview is accurate about 79% of the time, positioning it as one of the top AI models tested. However, no AI model is perfect, and it's crucial to acknowledge and address their shortcomings.
Transparency and Honesty in AI Presentations
Despite Gemini's relatively high accuracy rate, the decision to opt for a prerecorded, polished demo raises questions about transparency and honesty.
Presenting AI tools as flawless and error-free is misleading, as these technologies are inherently imperfect. It is essential for companies to showcase the capabilities of their products truthfully, highlighting both their strengths and weaknesses. By embracing the imperfections of AI technology, companies can build trust and credibility with their audience.
In Conclusion
While the allure of a perfectly executed presentation may be tempting, the use of prerecorded demos to showcase AI capabilities can be seen as a missed opportunity for authenticity and transparency. Embracing the imperfections of AI technology and presenting it truthfully is key to building credibility and trust with consumers. It's time for companies to move away from smoke and mirrors and towards a more honest portrayal of AI technology.
