OpenAI’s newest model and others like it could dramatically reinvent the workplace wheel.
OpenAI’s latest marvel, GPT-4o, is taking the AI world by storm with its groundbreaking multimodal capabilities, allowing it to seamlessly handle text, audio, and images. Unveiled through a series of engaging demo videos on Monday, this advanced technology showcases significant leaps in both vision and voice functionalities. The reaction has been a mix of awe and amusement, with some drawing parallels to the futuristic AI in the 2013 film “Her,” while Elon Musk candidly described the reveal as “cringe.”
Maribel Lopez, an AI analyst and founder of Lopez Research, believes that while it’s early to gauge the full impact on the workforce, GPT-4o and similar models are poised to revolutionize how we work. “Multimodal models will affect various industries by integrating text, video, and audio,” Lopez told Business Insider.
However, Lopez emphasized that not all changes will be detrimental. For instance, electricians and plumbers could find these AI tools incredibly useful for troubleshooting and repairs, though the hands-on nature of their work ensures they won’t be replaced. “AI can assist with fixing specialized equipment, but it can’t replicate the physical presence needed for such tasks,” she noted.
While AI robots are being developed for repetitive tasks like bolt welding, the complex nature of blue-collar jobs remains a barrier. On the other hand, industries heavily reliant on data, such as supply chain management and finance, might face more significant disruptions.
“Any job involving data is susceptible to AI’s influence,” Lopez explained, predicting that 20% to 30% of tasks currently handled by “computer workers” could be automated. Yet, this doesn’t spell unemployment for these workers. Instead, roles may evolve, as seen with paralegals shifting from time-consuming tasks like document retrieval and summarization to new, unforeseen responsibilities.
“The challenge with AI is that it compels us to continuously upgrade our skillsets,” Lopez added. “It’s a transformative period for everyone.”
OpenAI seems intent on showcasing the positive potential of GPT-4o, featuring a demo where the AI acts as a personal assistant, suggesting real-time code changes, and providing concise text summaries. The message is clear: rather than heralding a doomsday scenario for computer workers, GPT-4o aims to enhance productivity and efficiency, ushering in a new era of collaboration between humans and machines.
