Chinese Video Game Company NetDragon Websoft Appoints AI Bot as CEO
In a groundbreaking move that demonstrates the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) in the corporate world, Chinese video game company NetDragon Websoft has named an AI bot as its chief executive officer (CEO). The move, which took place in August 2022, marks an unprecedented milestone in the business world.
The AI bot, named Tangyu, is a humanoid robot powered by advanced artificial intelligence technology. According to insiders, Tangyu’s appointment is expected to enhance efficiency in key decision-making processes and risk management for NetDragon Websoft. Additionally, the company aims to ensure a fair and efficient workplace for all employees through this innovative move.
Many may wonder how a robot can effectively make decisions. NetDragon Websoft explains that Tangyu operates on an operating system that incorporates a progressive learning mechanism. With each decision it makes, the AI bot learns, evaluates its performance, and adapts accordingly. Moreover, unlike humans, the AI CEO does not engage in conflicts or complain for long hours.
The algorithm that underpins Tangyu’s decision-making capabilities was developed by iFlytek, a company specializing in speech recognition technology and natural language processing.
Since Tangyu assumed the position of CEO, NetDragon Websoft’s shares have outperformed the Hang Seng Index, which tracks the largest companies listed in Hong Kong. Google Finance reports that the company’s shares have risen by 10%, reaching a value of approximately $1.1 million.
NetDragon Websoft’s chairman, Dejian Liu, expressed his belief that AI represents the future of corporate governance. He stated in a press release, We believe that AI is the future of corporate governance, and our appointment of Ms. Tang Yu represents our commitment to truly embrace the use of AI to transform the way we operate our business and ultimately drive our future strategic growth.
Despite the positive outcomes observed thus far, the decision to appoint an AI as CEO raises questions about the potential of AI to replace human workers in various industries. According to McKinsey & Company, the impact of automation on the economy is steadily increasing. In Mexico alone, it is estimated that automation could lead to modifications in around 25.5 million existing jobs, accounting for 52% of all professions. Similarly, in the United States, approximately 45 million workers, representing 28% of the labor force, could lose their jobs by 2030.
Globally, certain professions are expected to be primarily affected by automation. However, the appointment of an AI CEO demonstrates that even top-level executive positions are not immune to the possibility of automation.
Jack Ma, the founder of Alibaba, predicted in 2017 that a robot will probably be on the cover of Time magazine as the best CEO in 30 years. This statement highlights the increasing influence of AI in shaping the future of work.
NetDragon Websoft, founded in 1999, is renowned for developing various popular games such as Eudemons Online, Heroes Evolved, and Conquer Online. The company also created China’s first online gaming portal, 17173.com.
While AI can excel in tasks requiring data analysis and computational capabilities, human workers possess an irreplaceable asset: soft skills. The importance of developing these skills is emphasized in various industries. However, it is crucial to remember that there are always opportunities for humans to adapt and acquire new skills, even in the face of AI’s advancement.
As the corporate world continues to explore the potential of AI, it remains essential to strike a balance between automation and the preservation of human expertise. The future of work lies in leveraging AI as a tool for transformative growth while retaining the unique abilities that only humans can provide.
