It reflects a sound understanding of the nature of AI — as an uncredited and formless modifier of other technologies. One whose presence is marked by familiar behaviors having slightly magical effects.
– Venkatesh Rao, Magic, Mundanity and Deep Protocolization
The whole magic & AI thing. The most 2023 of vibes!
Yet, it remains to be seen to what extent AI will yield entirely new media, modalities, and consumption levels or if it will merely modify technology we’re already familiar with.
Is generative AI the iPhone (entirely new media/modality/consumption), the iPhone camera (displaces and exceeds existing categories), or the ability to scan QR codes with your camera to reduce transactional friction (a game changer for some that quickly fades into the background)?
