IBM CEO Arvind Krishna on AI Models and Quantum Computing Future

The Evolution of IBM’s AI Strategy

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IBM is no stranger to technological advancements. This technological powerhouse revolutionized the PC design and pioneered the first AI to beat a human champion in chess. However, IBM’s AI strategies have evolved over time to focus on B2B applications rather than consumer-facing products.

IBM’s Unique Approach to AI Models

While IBM may not spring to mind when thinking of AI, their unique approach to AI model building is worth noting. They design compact, highly precise AI models for high-stakes settings, rather than focusing on large-scale foundational models like OpenAI and Google. This approach answers a critical question for investors—where will the economic gains from AI come from: massive foundational models or specific use-case models?

TIME had a chance to discuss this and more with IBM’s CEO, Arvind Krishna. He shared his thoughts on IBM’s AI strategy and the future of AI, just after receiving the TIME100 AI Impact Award.

IBM’s Decision to Shift Focus in AI

Over time, IBM shifted from creating monolithic AI systems to developing smaller, cheaper, and more accurate models tailored to specific business needs. Krishna credits this shift to a desire to create more cost-effective and efficient AI solutions for businesses, rather than competing in the race to build large AI systems.

IBM’s Belief in the Power of Specialized AI Over Generalist AI

Generalist AI may seem more efficient, but Krishna insists that for high-accuracy tasks, specialized AI models may be better. He predicts a future where a few large AI models coexist with thousands of smaller, fit-for-purpose models.

The Economic Benefits of AI

Krishna believes that both big and small companies will benefit economically from AI, making it a win-win situation. He equates the potential of AI with the early days of the internet when it opened up new opportunities for both large and small businesses alike.

IBM’s Quantum Computing Venture

Beyond AI, IBM has invested heavily in quantum computing. This technology is expected to revolutionize computation and could potentially position IBM as a dominant player in the next technological wave.