AI Dominates Conversations at VivaTech
Poinews.com – This year’s VivaTech, held in Paris, is Europe’s largest technology and startup gathering, with artificial intelligence taking center stage. Among the 200,000 attendees are notable figures like Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, and Emmanuel Macron, the French President, who regularly participates in the event. Euronews has been engaging visitors with two central questions: which technology instills the most concern, and which one sparks the most enthusiasm. In nearly every conversation, the response points to AI as the defining topic.
Public Sentiment on AI
For many, AI represents both opportunity and uncertainty. A Moroccan student expressed clear apprehension:
“Oh, definitely AI,”
he remarked, highlighting its dual nature. Maria Isabel Fernandez Polo, a Spanish tech professional, acknowledged its potential:
“I think it can be amazing, but we need to be aware of the possibilities,”
she added, emphasizing the need for cautious implementation.
Some visitors focus on specific AI applications. Kivuila Mavuidi from the Democratic Republic of the Congo praised Google’s chatbot:
“Obviously it’s Gemini, Gemini from Google,”
he smiled, showcasing the product’s appeal. Maurice Lévy, a former CEO of Publicis Groupe and co-founder of VivaTech, noted AI’s transformative power:
“Humanoid robotics, because this is something which is scary, and opens new dreams,”
he observed, reflecting on its broader implications.
Innovations on Display
France’s leading corporations are present, including LVMH, Orange, L’Oréal, and Airbus, alongside a vibrant array of startups. A standout exhibit came from Skyted, an audio firm, where Clémence Gorjux, a marketing consultant, demonstrated an earpiece designed for private communication in bustling public spaces. The device caters to professionals and individuals seeking discreet conversations.
Not all innovations stem from corporate giants. Batterizy, a French association with 75% disabled employees, unveiled a solar-powered battery system tailored for festivals and construction sites. VivaTech’s 10th edition also addresses anxieties with practical solutions, such as Lifepods’ personal survival capsule. This device is engineered for flood-prone areas, tsunami zones, and earthquake regions, offering a lifeline in disaster scenarios.
As the event progresses, AI’s influence remains undeniable, from cutting-edge robotics to life-saving tools, underscoring its transformative role in shaping the future of technology and society.
