Google CEO Addresses AI Growth and Waymo Expansion at World Government Summit 2025
Sundar Pichai discusses the impact of generative AI and the global advancements in technology during a session with UAE's AI Minister in Dubai.
Dubai - At the World Government Summit (WGS) 2025, Google CEO Sundar Pichai elaborated on the company’s continuing growth amid the increasing popularity of generative AI platforms such as ChatGPT.
Pichai participated in a virtual discussion with Omar Sultan Al Olama, the UAE’s Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, emphasizing Google’s positive trajectory in search functionality.
During the 30-minute session, which took place on February 12, 2025, Pichai was questioned about the potential effects of AI chatbots on Google’s operations.
He characterized the competition in the AI sector as “zero-sum,” suggesting a balanced scenario where gains by one party did not lead to corresponding losses for another.
However, he rebutted this notion, stating, “People’s information needs are exploding,” indicating that the demand for information remains robust and diversified.
Pichai reported strong growth in Google’s search services, highlighting recent improvements in search capability through AI advancements.
He noted that the changes had resulted in increased user engagement and growth across various demographics, reflecting the expanding potential in the search landscape.
“AI will help expand the opportunity space for all players,” Pichai stated, mentioning the versatility that AI technologies offer.
He forecasted a future where AI would enhance productivity across multiple sectors, acknowledging a competitive but open environment for innovation.
The session also featured Pichai's comments on DeepSeek, a Chinese startup noted for its development of efficient, open-source AI solutions, which has garnered global interest.
Pichai acknowledged that this development demonstrates the international nature of advancements in artificial intelligence.
Pichai also discussed Waymo, Google’s self-driving car subsidiary, and its goal to extend operations internationally, including the UAE.
He shared that Waymo had completed over 33 million rides and cited a significant reduction in crash rates when compared to human drivers.
The company plans to commence international testing in Japan and is looking to partner with the UAE to implement self-driving technology in local infrastructure.
In a personal reflection, Pichai shared insights into his early experiences with technology, detailing how delays in accessing telecommunication shaped his passion for making technology universally accessible.
He reiterated his commitment to using technology to improve lives globally, a mission he finds deeply rooted in his history growing up in Tamil Nadu, India.
The World Government Summit continues to be a significant global gathering, bringing together leaders from various sectors to discuss pressing issues and technological advancements.
Pichai participated in a virtual discussion with Omar Sultan Al Olama, the UAE’s Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, emphasizing Google’s positive trajectory in search functionality.
During the 30-minute session, which took place on February 12, 2025, Pichai was questioned about the potential effects of AI chatbots on Google’s operations.
He characterized the competition in the AI sector as “zero-sum,” suggesting a balanced scenario where gains by one party did not lead to corresponding losses for another.
However, he rebutted this notion, stating, “People’s information needs are exploding,” indicating that the demand for information remains robust and diversified.
Pichai reported strong growth in Google’s search services, highlighting recent improvements in search capability through AI advancements.
He noted that the changes had resulted in increased user engagement and growth across various demographics, reflecting the expanding potential in the search landscape.
“AI will help expand the opportunity space for all players,” Pichai stated, mentioning the versatility that AI technologies offer.
He forecasted a future where AI would enhance productivity across multiple sectors, acknowledging a competitive but open environment for innovation.
The session also featured Pichai's comments on DeepSeek, a Chinese startup noted for its development of efficient, open-source AI solutions, which has garnered global interest.
Pichai acknowledged that this development demonstrates the international nature of advancements in artificial intelligence.
Pichai also discussed Waymo, Google’s self-driving car subsidiary, and its goal to extend operations internationally, including the UAE.
He shared that Waymo had completed over 33 million rides and cited a significant reduction in crash rates when compared to human drivers.
The company plans to commence international testing in Japan and is looking to partner with the UAE to implement self-driving technology in local infrastructure.
In a personal reflection, Pichai shared insights into his early experiences with technology, detailing how delays in accessing telecommunication shaped his passion for making technology universally accessible.
He reiterated his commitment to using technology to improve lives globally, a mission he finds deeply rooted in his history growing up in Tamil Nadu, India.
The World Government Summit continues to be a significant global gathering, bringing together leaders from various sectors to discuss pressing issues and technological advancements.
Translation:
Translated by AI
