Next AI products: From OpenAI’s CPO
Younger users, especially those in their early 20s, treat AI as an always-on “super assistant,” seamlessly integrating it into daily workflows
The Future of AI: From Answering Questions to Taking Action
In a recent discussion with Kevin Weil, OpenAI’s Chief Product Officer, key insights emerged about the evolution of AI and its growing role in our daily lives.
AI’s Shift from Assistant to Agent
We’re moving beyond AI as a simple question-answering tool toward AI that actively performs tasks — like an employee. OpenAI’s latest updates introduce connectors to platforms like Google Docs, Gmail, and SharePoint, allowing AI to access and process real-world data. The next step? AI that not only reads but acts — writing documents, managing tasks, and even coding.
Generational Differences in AI Use
Younger users, especially those in their early 20s, treat AI as an always-on “super assistant,” seamlessly integrating it into daily workflows. For them, AI isn’t just a tool — it’s a core part of how they learn and operate. Older users, meanwhile, are still adapting, often “sprinkling AI” onto existing habits rather than fully reimagining workflows.
Overcoming Fear and Embracing AI
Many people remain apprehensive about AI’s rapid advancement. Weil’s advice? Just start using it. The best way to demystify AI is to experience its benefits firsthand — whether automating mundane tasks or solving complex problems (like deciphering a medical report when a doctor isn’t available).
The Unpredictable Pace of AI Development
AI progress isn’t linear. Capabilities emerge unexpectedly — some take longer than anticipated, while others appear overnight. For example, OpenAI’s “deep research” feature evolved from a niche experiment to a powerful tool that can conduct multi-step investigations, mimicking human research processes.
Coding: AI’s Killer App
AI’s impact on coding is profound. Tools like OpenAI’s Codex enable both engineers and non-technical users to automate software development. The vision? Democratizing coding so that a billion people can build solutions, not just the 30 million professional developers today.
The Role of Hardware in AI’s Future
With Jony Ive joining OpenAI, the company hints at rethinking AI hardware. Current devices (like smartphones) have limitations for AI interactions — imagine ambient AI assistants that listen, analyze, and act without constant manual input.
When Will AGI Arrive?
Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) won’t arrive overnight. Instead, it’ll be a gradual shift as AI becomes superhuman at more tasks. The goal? Ensuring AGI aligns with democratic values, not authoritarian control.
Final Thought: Build for the Next Model
For startups, Weil’s advice is to focus on what’s just beyond current AI capabilities. If your product barely works today but will shine with the next model, you’re on the right track.
AI is no longer just a tool — it’s becoming a collaborator, reshaping how we work, learn, and live. The question isn’t if AI will transform society, but how quickly we’ll adapt.
