CEO of TikTok, Shou Zi Chew, predicts that artificial intelligence will drive significant breakthroughs in fundamental science, including physics, biotechnology, and materials science, within the next two to three years.
ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, is actively investing in these developments. In April, its Seed laboratory introduced the Protenix-v2 AI model, which is designed to analyze biomolecular structures and assist in the discovery of new pharmaceutical drugs.
Shou Zi Chew noted that while the current impact of AI might be overestimated, its future potential is significantly underestimated. He emphasized that the technology is currently in a phase of rapid progress, particularly within scientific fields.
TikTok currently utilizes AI to streamline content creation, improve moderation, and enhance personalized user recommendations. The company's leadership views these internal successes as a foundation for broader scientific applications.
The CEO also highlighted significant cybersecurity risks associated with AI. He warned that users often grant AI agents permissions without fully understanding the consequences, such as agents overspending during automated shopping.
Furthermore, Shou Zi Chew pointed out that the cost of malicious tools is decreasing, making it easier for attackers to target corporate infrastructure and steal user data. He stressed the urgent need for responsible and timely development of security measures.
