Google’s Gemini AI Demo: Smoke and Mirrors

Ladies and gentlemen, gather ’round for the latest episode of “Google’s Got Talent… Or Do They?” This week, Google pulled back the curtain on their new Gemini AI model, and let’s just say the crowd’s reaction was more mixed than a fruit salad.

The main act? A video titled “Hands-on with Gemini: Interacting with multimodal AI” – a title as catchy as a cold in winter, but it did rack up a million views. It promised a showcase of Google’s new AI prodigy, juggling language and visuals like a circus performer. From sketching ducks to playing ‘Guess the Gesture’, it was set to be the AI show of the century.

But wait, there’s a twist! Turns out, the most jaw-dropping part of the demo was about as real as my chances of winning the lottery. Bloomberg’s Parmy Olson, playing the role of tech detective, uncovered that this spectacle was less ‘live demo’ and more ‘movie magic’.

Here’s the skinny: Google’s video was a carefully orchestrated illusion, a symphony of selected stills and text prompts, making Gemini look like it could read minds, or at least doodles. The reality? More like reading a script than reading the room.

Let’s dissect this a bit. The video shows Gemini playing charades, solving planetary puzzles, and tracking a ball under a cup with the flair of a seasoned magician. But in the real world, Gemini needs more hand-holding than a toddler crossing the street.

For example, the model apparently shouted “Rock, Paper, Scissors!” faster than you can say the game’s name. But in reality, it’s more like, “Um, give me a hint? Is it a game? Oh, Rock, Paper, Scissors, got it!” The difference is like comparing a sprint to a leisurely stroll.

The sticky notes with planet doodles? In the video, Gemini’s as sharp as a NASA scientist. But dig a little deeper, and you find it needed a nudge to get it right. It’s like passing an exam with an open book.

And don’t get me started on the ball-and-cup trick. In the video, Gemini’s tracking skills are on par with a hawk. In reality, it’s more like “Uh, can you explain the rules again?”

Google claims the video was just a ‘flavored’ representation of Gemini’s abilities. But let’s call a spade a spade: it’s like saying a picture of a burger represents the taste. We all know the real deal is usually a bit less… gourmet.

The bottom line? Google’s Gemini might have some real chops, but this demo was a classic case of ‘dress to impress’, with a side of ‘creative liberties’. Next time, Google might want to remember that in the world of AI demos, honesty is the best policy. Otherwise, they might just find themselves playing solo in the ‘Trust Us, We’re Google’ band. 🎭🧅🔮