Verizon CEO emerges as telecom's AI doomster-in-chief - Light Reading

Verizon CEO Dan Schulman has warned that artificial intelligence could increase unemployment to 30% within the next two to five years. He stated that company leaders need to be more honest with employees about AI's impact. Schulman also predicted that artificial general intelligence might arrive by the end of next year.

Schulman made these comments in a recent interview, highlighting concerns about workforce displacement due to AI advancements. His remarks come after Verizon conducted layoffs affecting over 2,000 employees as part of a restructuring effort the company linked to AI-driven efficiencies. The CEO did not specify the methodology behind his unemployment projection or AGI timeline.

The statements position Schulman as a prominent voice in the telecom industry on AI risks. They reflect ongoing debates about AI's economic effects and the pace of technological development. Other executives and analysts have offered varying estimates on job displacement and AGI timelines in recent months.