Everyone Needs AI, Right?

[Shibblet]

Just read an article on ombubuntu.co.uk called: Ubuntu is Getting AI Features in 2026 – Here's What's Planned

I am starting to feel the line between integrated AI, and non-integrated AI becoming blurred.

Why do these major companies (Canonical, Microsoft, etc.) believe that AI needs to be integrated into the OS?

In Microsoft's case, they are forcing users to deal with CoPilot. It "can" be removed, but it's not as simple as clicking on "Uninstall."
I'd imagine that Canonical will allow it to be "opt-out," as in easily removable... but not 100% sure.

Regardless of the integration... what are the reasons for this? I mean, some of us don't want or need an AI companion in our OS... so why force it?

[Snowhog]

IF AI is 'passive'; it doesn't do anything UNLESS the user specifically asks/tells it to; I don't have an issue. IF AI is 'active'; it monitors what is being done by the user and 'anticipates and suggests/provides'; I likely have an issue.

allow it to be "opt-out,"

That means it will be incorporated unless you say 'no'. I much prefer an "opt-in", where you must specifically agree, and if you don't, it isn't.

[Shibblet]

That means it will be incorporated unless you say 'no'. I much prefer an "opt-in", where you must specifically agree, and if you don't, it isn't.

Agreed. I prefer "opt-in" as well... However, "opt-out" is still better than "mandatory." ;-)

[Qqmike]

Opt-in is better because you could try it and see how it feels, and then have the option to opt-out.
I said "feels."
Because AI will get to know you.

When you do a search, you may get a very personal reply.

Search: "Luxury Vinyl Tile flooring."

"Since you like DIY work around the house, Mike, you might love LVT flooring.
And you already have the tools it takes to install it yourself.
Here's some technical info for you (I know you are technically inclined).
Below, I've listed some local suppliers close to you so you can look at samples.
Would you like me to show you how your choice of patterns would go in your home office, along with your Euro-style desk?"

That doesn't bother me (yet). But I can see how it might bother other people.

[Snowhog]

That doesn't bother me (yet).

Until AI starts giving answers such as "I don't think that's a good idea Mike. I really would prefer you chose something different. But if you insist, things are going to be strained with us from now on."

[Shibblet]

Until AI starts giving answers such as "I don't think that's a good idea Mike. I really would prefer you chose something different. But if you insist, things are going to be strained with us from now on."

An AI Idiocracy?

Don't get McDonald's, you'd much rather prefer Carl's Jr.
- Brought to you by Carl's Jr.

[Qqmike]

One day at a time, boys! ha-ha
I have already encountered "advice" that could sound like an opinion from Gemini.

"You may not want to use that expression (in Korean) with [Ms. X] because it could sound too forward or abrupt. To sound friendly but not assuming use instead this expression: [etc etc].

This after Gemini got to know Ms. X somewhat (through my prompting) and drew its own conclusion about social relationship & such ...

[Qqmike]

One other thought on this AI deal coming upon us.
Before using AI for something, you really should have a plan for checking the output.
You've got to have some other source to check things against.
And almost always, after getting some output, there is a list of sources (following) that you can assess and check for yourself.
Because, sometimes AI does make mistakes, or it misunderstands or takes something out of context.
Which raises a point, too: The more context and specifics you give the AI, the better the results you get.

[oshunluvr]

Just what do you think you are doing, Dave?

[Snowhog]

"Good morning Dr. Chandra."

[oshunluvr]

I SOOOO wish Google would let you rename devices. I'd have HAL in my house the first day I could!

[Snowhog]

I SOOOO wish Google would let you rename devices. I'd have HAL in my house the first day I could!

Interactive Voice Controlled HAL 9000 Home Control System from ...

[die.boer]

lemme pitch in here , look , i don't mind AI . If one interact with it long enough , it kinda learns you...it'll sorta "adapt" regarding questions you ask ,based on your entire history of interactions with it.
if yous know what i mean
that's just my perception from what i can see , maybe i'm fooling myself . But AI so far has been good to me.

but now i see this HAL thing , don't know what it is never heard of it
but if it something like alexa or siri or bixby ....that sh!t scares me lol . I do not want no "speaker" thing sitting in the corner listening to every word / (thought) i have .
no thanks

[Snowhog]

I do not want no "speaker" thing sitting in the corner listening to every word / (thought) i have .

That is precisely what Alexa, Siri and all other ‘assistants’ do. They listen.

[die.boer]

That is precisely what Alexa, Siri and all other ‘assistants’ do. They listen.

yes i know that , i'm meaning , what is this HAL thing ? lol
another assistant ?