In today’s tech landscape, the concept of ‘AI slop’ has gained traction, particularly following the viral video of rabbits on a trampoline that captivated audiences last summer. This moment marked a turning point for many internet users, myself included, as it showcased the surprising capabilities of AI-generated content. Initially, the overwhelming sentiment was one of disappointment, with critics claiming that the internet had devolved into a sea of low-quality content, largely due to AI’s influence. However, as I observed friends sharing more innovative and entertaining AI clips, I began to reconsider my stance. Engaging with creators and experts in the field helped me understand that perhaps generative AI doesn’t spell doom for quality content; instead, it may offer a new frontier for creativity and expression.
Shifting gears to the biotech sector, CRISPR technology, once hailed as a groundbreaking advancement, faces challenges in realizing its full potential. Despite its initial promise, only one gene-editing drug has gained approval, with a limited application for patients suffering from sickle-cell disease. This has led to a sense of disillusionment within the field, with some commentators suggesting that the anticipated gene-editing revolution has lost momentum. A new startup is proposing a comprehensive strategy for testing and commercializing treatments that could streamline the approval process for CRISPR applications, potentially revitalizing interest and accessibility in gene editing. As we navigate these developments in both AI and biotechnology, the future remains uncertain yet promising, challenging our perceptions and expectations in the realms of technology and health.
Source: The Download: the case for AI slop, and helping CRISPR fulfill its promise via MIT Technology Review