18 Dec 2025
1h 18m

AI Vibe Check: The Actual Bottleneck In Research, SSI’s Mystique, & Spicy 2026 Predictions

Podcast cover

Unsupervised Learning with Jacob Effron

In a panel discussion featuring Ari Morcos, Jacob, and Rob Toews, the group analyzes the current state and future trends of AI. They discuss the possibility of plateauing in LLMs, the shift towards closed-source models, and the rise of Chinese AI innovation. The conversation covers the potential of continual learning, recursive self-improvement, and the importance of data efficiency. They also debate the implications of recent events, including OpenAI's "code red," the Disney partnership, and the restrictions on chip sales to China. The group concludes with bold predictions for 2026, including a potential change in OpenAI's leadership and the dominance of Chinese open-source models.

Outlines

Part 1: AI Trends, Plateaus, and Research

Part 2: Lab Dynamics and Market Competition

Part 3: Policy, Infrastructure, and Future Outlook

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