Yet Another Pretend Effort from Google

Another Day, Another ‘Initiative’

So let me get this straight. Another day and another momentous announcement from Google that they’re launching a ‘new initiative’ called the Digital Futures Project, claiming it will ‘support researchers and public policy solutions around AI’. Google’s so-called charitable arm, Google.org, is apparently coughing up a $20 million fund for grants. This is happening just before they get a good grilling in an upcoming private Congressional meeting focused on AI. How convenient!

The Charade called ‘Implications’

Oh, let’s pretend to marvel at the possible implications of this project. Hat’s off to Google for remembering it’s not all about selling ads disguised as ‘relevant results’. Suddenly, they’re all about ‘supporting AI research and public policy solutions’. This could potentially mean some small-time researchers will get their hands on Google’s pity-cash. Or maybe it’ll result in some AI-flavoured policy solutions, whatever that’s supposed to mean.

Hot Take or Just Hot Air?

And now, for my completely uncalled-for hot take. Basically, Google is keen to try and look like they’re interested in anything other than their bottom line. Their strategic commitment to this shiny new initiative helps them to hold up a conveniently magnanimous front ahead the of this private Congressional meeting they’re so nervous about. Isn’t it beautiful when tech giants suddenly find their conscience, precisely when they’re about to get roasted?

Original article:https://techcrunch.com/2023/09/11/google-org-to-invest-20m-into-ai-focused-grants-for-think-tanks-and-academic-institutions/