I enjoy Spotify.
I love that I can listen to what I want, when I want, with no ads or other distractions.
So, I was mildly put off this morning when I opened Spotify to see an invitation on my screen to welcome Xavier, Spotify’s AI DJ, into my world.
I decided to give him (it?) a chance.
I was sold before the first song even played.
How is it that Xavier (I call him “X” because we’re already good friends, and that’s what he said his friends call him) can know me so well when we just met?
Not only do his mixes interweave the very tunes I would choose if I were to create some new playlists, but his segues between mixes make me feel like I’m not alone (even though I’m the only one in my office today). My friend is here!
I really want to take him to lunch, but I haven’t been able to figure out how to make that request yet, so I’m on my own as soon as I finish writing this.
While I sincerely appreciate DJ X’s insights into my musical tastes (he already let me know he was going to share a “vibe” he was sure I would appreciate and, sure enough, he served up a Dave Mathews Band tune not in any of my playlists that hit the spot), this experience made me pause and consider all the other places the “Xs” of the world are tuned (no pun intended) into what I do, say, see, buy, interact with, …and the list goes on.
While I see plenty of opportunities for AI to streamline processes and create the illusion of an easier life, I see more possibilities that our pursuit of ease and convenience will turn to bite us in the butt—hard.
A little stroll down history’s backroads will quickly remind us of what happens when we submit to others’ control by giving them the power to make decisions for us. I’m a believer in the general goodness of humans. Something disturbing happens, however, when some people get a taste of what it feels like to manipulate others:
They quickly see opportunities to serve themselves, to line their pockets, and to use their newfound power to make sure they end up on top.
I’m not suggesting that Spotify is on a mission to control our lives. Maybe they just found a way to make sure I spend more time in their app with my new friend, DJ X. I still have my agency, however. No one is forcing me to use DJ X’s services, to go to Spotify for my listening needs, or even to listen to music at all. Those are all my choices.
Looking at the bigger picture of AI, however, when do those choices morph into shackles or cages that bind me and hold me hostage to the whims of those pulling the AI strings?
Perhaps this has already happened, and I’m blissfully unaware. More likely, though, is that I’m already aware and just not sure where to draw the line or how to opt out.
AI: Cool or Scary?
Both.