Gemini 2.5 Pro is so good that it is Empire Strikes Back moment in AI fight between Google and OpenAI
Since it arrived on the scene a few weeks ago, the Gemini 2.5 Pro (experimental) has wowed its users. This is the first AI system from Google that feels as good as — and in many instances better — than the best tools available from OpenAI. And whether in actual use, or in benchmarks, the Gemini 2.5 Pro has excelled. Take a look at the benchmarks:
advertisement
But more than the benchmarks the new Gemini has impressed users. Social media — mostly X aka Twitter because that is where action is — nowadays is full of thumbs ups from people saying how Gemini 2.5 Pro excels at coding, or writing, or analysing documents. Unlike the recent ChatGPT 4o, which turned into a parrot eulogising and flattering its users, the Gemini has a measured tone and a more authoritative personality. It does not by any means sound unhelpful. Instead, it is measured in a way a professional helper would be. When I try an AI tool like Gemini, DeepSeek or ChatGPT, I usually ask it to write a paragraph or two in the style of Jon Fosse. Now, Fosse is a writer — and here I am talking of his work translated in English — who uses a minimalistic language and a sparse voice, but one which gets its force from the way the Norwegian writer creates rhythm with repetitions. For AI, coding is easy nowadays. It excels at logic. But writing a few lines of fiction is still a difficult job for it. And on that, it is very difficult for an AI tool to write a paragraph that reflects the style used by Fosse. They can write in Hemingway style — well, sort of — but not Fosse. In my experience, so far the only AI tool that has managed some sort of coherency in this has been the Gemini 2.5 Pro. advertisementThere is another reason why the Gemini 2.5 Pro is such a key AI tool. Unlike the best tools from the likes of OpenAI and Anthropic, the Gemini 2.5 Pro is free to use. In this aspect it is somewhat like DeepSeek R1. But unlike DeepSeek R1, which often found itself getting a hammering due to load on its servers, Gemini 2.5 Pro can probably handle millions of users simultaneously. The backend that powers Google services is one of the best, if not the absolute best, that any tech company has. In many ways, this makes the Gemini 2.5 Pro the first top-class AI model that most people in the world can use.Now as good as the Gemini 2.5 Pro is, there is another aspect to it, and that is how Google vs OpenAI is going to look like in future. So far it seemed that OpenAI was landing all the blows. But I have a suspicion that the Gemini 2.5 Pro is just the beginning of a counter strike. Google has some of the best AI researchers. It also has the kind of data that other companies can only dream of. And finally it has a massive scale — in everything — which OpenAI currently doesn't have.advertisementGoogle still needs to get better at showing its AI tools to people. For example, its NotebookLLM, which can turn a paragraph into a long podcast, is superb. Similarly, there are a number of other Gemini and Google AI tools that are top class in what they do. But they remain scattered across Google services and products, and in many cases accessing them requires — like literally — an engineering degree because Google has placed them in virtual silos that are accessible only to developers. But I feel these are the niggles that a company like Google will sort out in the coming months. The new Gemini interface in itself is a big improvement in terms of accessibility and user experience compared to what we had a year ago. A more pressing matter for Google was to prove that it could match ChatGPT and Claude. With the Gemini 2.5 Pro it has done that.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Economic Times
32 minutes ago
- Economic Times
Horoscope today 14 August 2025: Moon in Virgo and Mercury-Mars alignment bring big opportunities for these zodiac signs
Synopsis Horoscope Today 14 August brings fresh cosmic insights for all zodiac signs—Gemini, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Libra, Pisces, Aries, Taurus, Virgo, Leo, Cancer, Capricorn, and Aquarius. Whether you're pursuing career milestones, seeking emotional clarity, or making important decisions, today's astrology predictions offer practical guidance. Today, as the Moon moves through Virgo, expect a wave of clarity and fresh opportunities. With Mercury in Leo aligning with Mars in Libra, communication and action are supercharged—making it a great day for these zodiac signs to make bold moves. Horoscope Today 14 August 2025 offers a glimpse into what the universe has in store for your zodiac sign. As the Moon transitions through Virgo, the focus today is on analysis, structure, and clearing loose ends. Whether you're a fire sign like Aries, Leo, or Sagittarius seeking action, or a water sign like Cancer or Pisces searching for emotional balance, today's predictions reflect planetary alignments and their impact on your mood, decisions, and overall flow. Your energy is high today, Aries, but Mercury's square with Neptune may create minor communication confusion. Focus on clarity in work discussions and avoid rushing important tasks. Financially, hold off on major investments until things feel more certain. On the emotional front, small disagreements could arise with loved ones—take a step back before reacting. Trust your instincts but double-check information. Physical activity will help balance restless energy. Social interactions may bring unexpected insights, so remain open. Evening reflection will provide perspective on the day. Prioritize rest to recharge for tomorrow. Taurus, Venus's alignment with Saturn empowers your career and long-term goals. Presenting your ideas or negotiating rewards now could lead to tangible results. Emotionally, you might feel slightly reserved—don't let this distance affect relationships. Health routines, including hydration and sleep, are especially important today. Financial planning benefits from careful consideration. Creative projects may gain traction if you dedicate focus. Family matters may need patience and diplomacy. Stay grounded and avoid overcommitting. A small act of self-care can bring clarity and peace. Evening reflection could spark a personal breakthrough. The Moon in your 4th house brings family matters to the forefront, Gemini. Emotional sensitivity may rise, requiring patience and grounding. Career tasks will demand focus—avoid multitasking to prevent mistakes. Unexpected financial opportunities might appear; evaluate them carefully. Social interactions could reveal hidden information. Your natural curiosity benefits research or learning today. Creative thinking shines, especially in problem-solving. Avoid overextending emotionally; set boundaries where needed. Evening meditation or journaling can help process your thoughts. Family communication will be smoother if approached with your intuition is heightened, but so is the tendency to overthink. Avoid reading too much into small cues, especially in personal relationships. A past work connection might return with opportunities; review proposals carefully. Honest, heart-to-heart conversations in love bring clarity. Focus on self-care, sleep, and limiting late-night screen time. Financial decisions should be conservative today. Emotional well-being improves with light exercise or outdoor walks. Be mindful of absorbing others' stress. Socially, trust close friends for guidance. Evening reflection supports better emotional balance. Leo, today calls for structure to counteract distraction. Make a clear task list and prioritize urgent matters. Small unexpected expenses may appear; avoid impulse purchases. Reconnect with loved ones with simple gestures or messages. Work projects benefit from organized planning. Social engagements could bring insights, so remain attentive. Creative expression shines, helping you feel energized and motivated. Emotional patience is necessary in personal interactions. Health routines will stabilize mood and energy levels. Evening reflection provides perspective on accomplishments and challenges. Avoid overcommitting; balance is key today. The Moon energizes your sign, Virgo, making you feel ready to lead or solve ongoing issues. Take initiative at work and don't shy away from responsibility. Be cautious not to overwork; short breaks and walks help prevent burnout. Health signals are subtle but important—stay hydrated and mindful of posture. Financial planning and attention to detail bring success. Creative and analytical skills combine effectively today. Family interactions benefit from your practical advice. Emotional grounding is necessary to manage stress. Evening meditation or journaling aids mental clarity. Take time to appreciate your accomplishments. Libra, relationships take center stage as Venus brings clarity. Honest conversations in partnerships help resolve lingering tension. Work stress may build but is manageable with routines. Focus on mental balance through deep breathing, journaling, or short meditation breaks. Financial decisions benefit from patience and careful review. Creative endeavors are favored if you approach them methodically. Emotional sensitivity may arise; avoid overanalyzing situations. Networking or collaboration brings unexpected opportunities. Evening reflection on your priorities supports a sense of peace. Balance between work, love, and personal care is essential. Scorpio, your emotional depth allows you to uncover important truths today. Whether in personal relationships or self-reflection, use this insight wisely. Financially, review details carefully before making commitments. Singles may experience an intriguing connection through friends or social networks. Work projects benefit from focus and strategic planning. Intuitive hunches guide decision-making. Avoid getting caught in emotional turbulence; maintain boundaries. Evening reflection or journaling can deepen understanding. Physical activity or mindfulness supports clarity. Trust your instincts but balance with rational thinking. Sagittarius, you may feel restless and seek change. Spontaneous energy is positive, but stay grounded in decision-making. A learning or travel opportunity may present itself—evaluate carefully before committing. Financial caution is advised; don't let excitement cloud judgment. Physical activity, especially outdoors, refreshes energy levels. Social connections bring new ideas or perspectives. Emotional awareness helps navigate personal relationships. Creative or intellectual projects gain traction with focused effort. Evening reflection enhances clarity on priorities. Avoid overcommitting to avoid unnecessary today emphasizes long-term planning and steady progress. Saturn supports practical decision-making and career goals. If you've been consistent, positive feedback is likely. Relationships benefit from your advice and practical solutions. Financial matters require careful assessment but show potential for growth. Physical and mental routines stabilize your energy. Creative problem-solving brings professional recognition. Social interactions may reveal helpful opportunities. Evening reflection or journaling supports mindfulness and goal clarity. Celebrate small wins; they build long-term confidence. Aquarius, mental energy is high but scattered. Focus on prioritizing key tasks and avoid distractions. A colleague or friend may offer a new perspective that reshapes your approach. Romantic energy is neutral today, making it ideal for self-care and personal growth. Financial planning benefits from analytical thinking. Creative projects and learning opportunities bring satisfaction. Avoid overextending socially; maintain boundaries. Physical activity or mindfulness exercises stabilize energy. Evening reflection helps process insights and ideas. Trust your intuition but balance with practical action. Pisces, Neptune's influence could blur reality today. Avoid assumptions and remain grounded in personal and professional decisions. Emotional receptivity is high, but protect your energy from absorbing stress from others. Creative and artistic projects flourish with focus and imagination. Financial decisions require careful evaluation. Relationship clarity comes through honest conversation. Physical exercise or meditation supports emotional balance. Social interactions may provide unexpected insights. Evening reflection helps consolidate thoughts and intuition. Stay mindful of boundaries to maintain emotional well-being. Each zodiac sign has a unique journey, and Horoscope Today 14 August 2025 reminds us that even minor planetary shifts influence our thoughts, feelings, and actions. From Gemini's emotional sensitivity to Virgo's leadership boost and Pisces' intuitive flow, it's a day of reflection and opportunity. Align with the stars, but trust your instincts.
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
an hour ago
- Business Standard
GenAI paradox: Companies pouring billions into AI; it has yet to pay off
Nearly four decades ago, when the personal computer boom was in full swing, a phenomenon known as the 'productivity paradox' emerged. It was a reference to how, despite companies' huge investments in new technology, there was scant evidence of a corresponding gain in workers' efficiency. Today, the same paradox is appearing, but with generative artificial intelligence. According to recent research from McKinsey & Company, nearly eight in 10 companies have reported using generative AI, but just as many have reported 'no significant bottom-line impact'. AI technology has been racing ahead with chatbots like ChatGPT, fueled by a high-stakes arms race among tech giants and superrich start-ups and prompting an expectation that everything from back-office accounting to customer service will be revolutionised. But the payoff for businesses outside the tech sector is lagging behind, plagued by issues including an irritating tendency by chatbots to make stuff up. That means that businesses will have to continue to invest billions to avoid falling behind — but it could be years before the technology delivers an economywide payoff, as companies gradually figure out what works best. Call it the 'the generative AI paradox,' as McKinsey did in its research report. Investments in generative AI by businesses are expected to increase 94 per cent this year to $61.9 billion, according to IDC, a technology research firm. But the percentage of companies abandoning most of their AI pilot projects soared to 42 per cent by the end of 2024, up from 17 per cent the previous year, according to a survey of more than 1,000 technology and business managers by S&P Global, a data and analytics firm. Projects failed not only because of technical hurdles, but often because of 'human factors' like employee and customer resistance or lack of skills, said Alexander Johnston, a senior analyst at S&P Global. Gartner, a research and advisory firm that charts technological 'hype cycles,' predicts that AI is sliding toward a stage it calls 'the trough of disillusionment.' The low point is expected next year, before the technology eventually becomes a proven productivity tool, said John-David Lovelock, the chief forecaster at Gartner. That was the pattern with past technologies like personal computers and the internet — early exuberance, the hard slog of mastering a technology, followed by a transformation of industries and work. The winners so far have been the suppliers of AI technology and advice. They include Microsoft, Amazon, and Google, which offer AI software, while Nvidia is the runaway leader in AI chips. Executives at those companies have bragged how AI is reshaping their own work forces, eliminating the need for some entry-level coding work and making other workers more efficient. AI will eventually replace entire swaths of human employees, many predict, a perspective that is being widely embraced and echoed in the corporate mainstream. At the Aspen Ideas Festival in June, Jim Farley, the chief executive of Ford Motor, said, 'Artificial intelligence is going to replace literally half of all white-collar workers in the US' Whether that type of revolutionary change occurs, and how soon, depends on the real-world testing ground of many businesses. 'The raw technological horsepower is terrific, but it's not going to determine how quickly AI transforms the economy,' said Andrew McAfee, a principal research scientist and co-director of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's Initiative on the Digital Economy. Still, some businesses are finding ways to incorporate AI — although in most cases the technology is still a long way from replacing workers. One company where AI's promise and flaws are playing out is USAA, which provides insurance and banking services to members of the military and their families. After several pilot projects, some of which it closed down, the company introduced an AI assistant to help its 16,000 customer service workers provide correct answers to specific questions. USAA is tracking its AI investments, but does not yet have a calculation of the financial payoff, if any, for the call center software. But the response from its workers, the company said, has been overwhelmingly positive. While it has software apps for answering customer questions online, its call centers field an average of 200,000 calls a day. 'Those are moments that matter,' said Ramnik Bajaj, the company's chief data analytics and AI officer. 'They want a human voice at the other end of the phone.' That's similar to an AI app developed more than a year ago for fieldworkers at Johnson Controls, a large supplier of building equipment, software and services. The company fed its operating and service manuals for its machines into an AI program that has been trained to generate a problem summary, suggest repairs and deliver it all to the technician's tablet computer. In testing, the app has trimmed 10 to 15 minutes off a repair call of an hour or more — a useful efficiency gain, but hardly a workplace transformation on its own. Fewer than 2,000 of the company's 25,000 field service workers have access to the AI helper, although the company is planning an expansion. 'It's still pretty early days, but the idea is that over time everyone will use it,' said Vijay Sankaran, the chief digital and information officer at Johnson Controls. The long-term vision is that companies will use AI to improve multiple systems, including sales, procurement, manufacturing, customer service and finance, he said. 'That's the game changer,' said Sankaran, who predicts that shift will take at least five years. Two years ago, JPMorgan Chase, the nation's largest bank, blocked access to ChatGPT from its computers because of potential security risks. Only a few hundred data scientists and engineers were allowed to experiment with AI Today, about 200,000 of the bank's employees have access to a general-purpose AI assistant — essentially a business chatbot — from their work computers for tasks like retrieving data, answering business questions and writing reports. The assistant, tailored for JPMorgan's use, taps into ChatGPT and other AI tools, while ensuring data security for confidential bank and customer information. Roughly half of the workers use it regularly and report spending up to four hours less a week on basic office tasks, the company said. The bank's wealth advisers are also employing a more specialized AI assistant, which uses bank, market and customer data to provide wealthy clients with investment research and advice. The bank says it retrieves information and helps advisers make investment recommendations nearly twice as fast as they could before, increasing sales. Lori Beer, the global chief information officer at JPMorgan, oversees a worldwide technology staff of 60,000. Has she shut down AI projects? Probably hundreds in total, she said. But many of the shelved prototypes, she said, developed concepts and code that were folded into other, continuing projects. 'We're absolutely shutting things down,' Ms. Beer said. 'We're not afraid to shut things down. We don't think it's a bad thing. I think it's a smart thing.' McAfee, the M.I.T. research scientist, agreed. 'It's not surprising that early AI efforts are falling short,' said McAfee, who is a founder of Workhelix, an AI-consulting firm. 'Innovation is a process of failing fairly regularly.'
&w=3840&q=100)
First Post
an hour ago
- First Post
Is Sam Altman gearing up to take on Musk's Neuralink? Report says...
Sam Altman, chief executive of OpenAI, is working to co-found a brain-to-computer interface startup called Merge Labs. If Merge Labs moves forward, it would mark Altman's bid to stake a claim in a field Musk has championed Musk, who left OpenAI after his failed attempt to take over the company in 2018, has long been critical of the firm. Image Credit: Reuters Sam Altman, chief executive of OpenAI, is working to co-found a brain-to-computer interface startup called Merge Labs, according to the Financial Times. The venture is said to be seeking funding at a potential $850 million valuation, with some capital possibly coming from OpenAI's own ventures arm. Sources told TechCrunch that talks remain early and OpenAI has not committed to participating, meaning the terms could still change. Merge Labs is reportedly collaborating with Alex Blania, head of Tools for Humanity, the company behind Altman's iris-scanning digital ID project. The new company would compete directly with Elon Musk's Neuralink, which is developing brain implants to help people with severe paralysis control devices using thought alone. Neuralink, founded in 2016 and valued at $9 billion after a June fundraising round, is currently running human trials. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The concept of 'the merge'— humans integrating with technology— has long fascinated both Musk and Altman. In a 2017 blog post, Altman wrote that the merge 'has already begun' and predicted humans would become 'the first species ever to design our own descendants.' The idea predates Silicon Valley's current fixation on artificial general intelligence and ties back to earlier visions of 'the singularity.' The two tech leaders, once OpenAI co-founders, have since become open rivals. Musk left the organisation in 2018, and the relationship has soured, with the pair trading public barbs on X this week. If Merge Labs moves forward, it would mark Altman's bid to stake a claim in a field Musk has championed, and a new front in their escalating competition. Elon Musk vs Sam Altman Elon Musk and Sam Altman were once co-founders of OpenAI, but their relationship broke down after Musk left in 2018. Since then, they have become rivals, running competing AI companies: Musk's xAI and Altman's OpenAI. The feud has played out both in business and in public spats. Musk has criticised OpenAI's direction and tried to buy it back, while Altman has pushed ahead with commercial growth. This week, tensions escalated when Musk accused Apple of favouring OpenAI's ChatGPT in the App Store. Altman responded by accusing Musk of manipulating X to benefit his own ventures. Their rivalry now spans technology, influence, and personal reputation, with both positioning themselves as leaders in the race to shape the future of AI. With inputs from agencies
