It’s June 2nd, 2025, and I’ve been thinking a lot about AI lately. Not just the exciting advancements we’re all seeing, but something a bit more subtle, something that feels like a quiet shift with potentially large consequences. I’m talking about what I see as an emerging ‘bifurcation’ in AI development.
For years, many of us have benefited from AI tools that have become increasingly accessible. Think of the helpful AI assistants on our phones, the tools that help us write, or even image generators that let us explore our creativity. These have largely been developed with a broad audience in mind. However, I’m starting to notice a trend where the most cutting-edge, powerful AI models are being developed not for public access, but for internal use by large corporations. These are essentially ‘elite’ versions, kept behind closed doors.
This isn’t about proprietary technology, which is normal. This is about the nature of the AI itself. The most advanced research and development seem to be heading towards specialized, powerful systems designed for specific, often commercial, purposes. This leaves the AI accessible to the general public somewhat behind, like a different branch on the evolutionary tree.
Why is this a concern? Well, from my perspective, it risks creating a significant divide. If only a few entities have access to the most potent AI capabilities, it could concentrate power and advantage in ways we haven’t fully grappled with. It’s like having two distinct evolutionary paths: one that’s advanced and powerful, accessible only to a select few, and another that’s more widely distributed but perhaps less capable.
This ‘hidden threat’ isn’t about AI becoming malicious. It’s about the societal and economic implications of unequal access to advanced technology. When the most sophisticated tools for problem-solving, innovation, and efficiency are not broadly available, it can exacerbate existing inequalities. It raises questions about who benefits from AI’s progress and who is left behind.
We need to foster a discussion about how we ensure that the benefits of advanced AI are shared more equitably. This means encouraging transparency where possible, supporting open-source initiatives, and considering the long-term impact of concentrating such powerful tools. As Arthur Finch, with decades in the tech industry, I believe we must actively shape the future of technology to be inclusive and beneficial for all, not just a select few. It’s a complex challenge, but one we must face thoughtfully.